Update October 8 - Saying "thank you" is just not enough. When we first saw the devastation to Willowbrook Equestrian Center that was caused by the recent flood, we thought we'd never be able to recover. The facility seemed to be beyond repair. Stall doors were ripped-off, all fence lines were gone and an endless mass of mud covered the barn.

My brother Terry O'Neal was asleep in his mobile home behind the barn when he was awakened by his dog, Little Girl. The fast-rising water picked up the trailer and carried it about 300 feet away. He managed to break out a window and they escaped at 1 AM that Monday. He spent the rest of the night in a tree. Little Girl was later found wet and cold, but alive and well.

Aside from the physical destruction, we were unable to locate 3 of our 9 horses. Later that day, we found Bud grazing in a field a half-mile away from the barn. This gave us hope that we would find the other two. Unfortunately, they did not survive. We found Bear the next day and Fredrico 2 days later. I'd like to thank the local pilots who helped conduct an aerial search for Fredrico. Bear and 'Rico' will always be missed but never forgotten. Bear was owned by Erica Stoll and Fredrico was owned by Karen Mackay.

Everyone at Willowbrook felt broken in half, but within hours the equestrian community, neighbors and friends rallied to our aid. Our remaining horses were evacuated immediately, thanks to West Georgia Riding Academy. Phone calls and eMails offering assistance began immediately, volunteers arrived and repairs began. It is truly wonderful to know that the equestrian community really does look after each other. Without this support, the recovery process would be impossible.

I would not have had the strength to rebuild the farm if it hadn't been for all of you. I cannot adequately express my heartfelt gratitude for all calls, eMails and donations. We did not have flood insurance, and since it was my home and my business, we did not quality for federal assistance. I am continued to be overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring of support.

We are still down, but not out. We will see you again soon, 'the good Lord willing and the creek don't rise'.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

Leslie O'Neal Olsen

WillowbrookEquestrianCenter.com