I’m thrilled I was able to purchase Iwona Jankowski’s Western Runner.

I thought you might want to hear the short story that makes this purchase so precious!  Our daughter, Caylah, was diagnosed with a brain condition called Chiari I Malformation.  (Essentially, the brain is too large for the skull and it sags or presses into the spine.)  Caylah had surgery a few years ago to relieve the symptoms caused by this condition.  The neurosurgeon said her case was so severe that he had to cut away part of her cervical spine to make more room for the spinal fluid to flow unencumbered to/from the brain.  In so doing, the doctor said Caylah would not have the structural support in her spine to withstand traumatic injuries or sustained jarring.  She gave up competitive dancing and was told she should never ride horses again. While our family understands the inherent risk in Caylah’s riding, she absolutely refuses to “stop living.”  And, thus, we bid on this piece of art as Caylah’s Christmas present this year.  It represents the sheer joy and majesty of horses, and Caylah’s desire to run free!  Caylah’s favorite color is purple and she loves abstract art!

Thank you again in ways you probably never imagined!

Regards,
Buddy Hall

Iwona.  I hope this note means as much to you as it did to us.  Art is such an amazing expression, and each piece touches the soul a bit differently.  We truly appreciate your gift and your support.  Have a wonderful afternoon!

Thanks!
Crystal Phares
Curator
American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame

Western Runner