by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Winston Churchill once said: “There is something about the outside of the horse that is good for the inside of man.” Perhaps it was with that thought that Patty Magie envisioned TJ’s Galloping Angels, a not-for-profit organization which gives children experiencing emotional trauma the opportunity to experience the love of horses.

“Yes, that thought played a big part in our development of TJ’s Galloping Angels,” Magie admitts. “We decided on the name because when my sister TJ Parker passed away at age 45 her boys, Brandon and Brody, were left without a mother. Initially it was, and still is, certainly hard for them but getting them involved in TJ’s Galloping Angels has helped their mental state tremendously.”

After seeing the effect TJ’s illness had on her entire family, Magie thought about what could be done to help kids who are watching a close family member fight a terminal illness.

“Doctor visits and hospital stays, as well as the daily effects of Chemo during the battle, are very disturbing to all of us. However, to a child who is watching his or her mom or dad fight this battle it can be terrifying to them,” Magie said. “Our family has always had an involvement with horses in one way or another and I know for me even just spending time brushing a horse has an amazing power to calm the body and the mind.

“We have made arrangements with a wonderful riding school called Bonny Lass Stables (www.bonnylassstables.com), located between Monticello and Port Jervis in Godeffroy, N.Y., just off Route 209, for children who have an immediate family member fighting a terminal illness. They will be able to go there and spend time with horses, grooming, riding and taking lessons. The foundation will pay for this.

“As those who knew her, TJ was always trying to help everyone else every day of her life and I am hoping that, in her name, we can make very difficult times just a little easier for kids in our area.”

TJ’s Galloping Angels’ current focus is on children living in Sullivan and Orange Counties in New York and Pike and Wayne Counties in Pennsylvania.

“If anyone is aware of a child who has an immediate family member with a terminal illness, or, one who has just lost an immediate family member, we urge them to contact us and we might be able to help,” Magie added.

For further information contact Patty Magie at 570.775.9890 or 845.551.4103. She can also be reached by e-mail at pattymagie@gmail.com.