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Decatur resident Amy Moore, who has been on the front lines of flood relief efforts in North Carolina for several weeks, is trying to raise money to purchase a horse for Lilli Eshlemon, a 14-year-old North Carolina girl who has been working tirelessly to help rebuild her community.
Eshlemon’s 14th birthday was Monday, Moore told The News-Gazette in a phone call, and she has long nurtured a dream of becoming a barrel racer. She put in years of work to achieve this goal with her horse, Lexi. Unfortunately, as a result of Hurricane Helene, Lexi died, leaving Lilli’s dream in doubt.
Moore heard this story from another volunteer, Chris Bryant, and knew that with its concentration of equine organizations and enthusiasts, the Rockbridge County community would be able to help.
After a search for a barrel horse, Moore found one, Ducky, which is currently owned by Ashley Reid, wife of local country singer Will Reid. Moore has already committed to purchasing the horse using her retirement money, and will be delivering the horse this week. She hopes that the equine community can come together to cover the costs.
A GoFundMe has been set up to raise $6,500 for the purchase of the horse, which can be found at https://gofund.me/c162ffe9. Readers may also donate money via Venmo to @amy-moore-641, or via Zelle at the number (315) 222-8140.
