Welcome to Rayden's page. Here you will find a story of our sons journey with Spina Bifida. There have been many challenges and struggles through the years but it's been worth it! I have tried to keep this blog updated. It might be easier to navigate by using the side bar and looking for specific dates or posts. You can even use the search engine for something specific. I welcome comments as well.
On September 17, I received an email by the Dream Hunt Foundation inviting Rayden to deer hunt in Shreveport, Louisiana. They would absorb the cost of the entire weekend, including the flight, rental car, food, hotel, etc. This invitation was made even more special when they asked to film the entire weekend, creating an episode that will air on TV.
What a weekend!!Brandy Garison was so thorough and planned everything wonderfully. We sure felt like celebrities when Connor Floyd met us at the airport to start filming for the episode.
Registration began at 3pm Friday where we met our cameraman and guide, Dalton. After the private interview, they took a deep dive into the backpack. It was filled to the brim with hunting essentials, a Dream Hunt t-shirt and hat, snacks, and more. Dalton showed Rayden the gun they planned to hunt with before heading down the hill for some target practice.
We met some wonderful people, squeezed in a little sightseeing, enjoyed some shopping, and ate some traditional Louisiana food. Rayden was eager and willing to try crawfish, alligator, frog legs, gumbo, and etoufee.
Surprisingly, he had no trouble getting up, dressed, and waiting by the door for his guide, Dalton Gould, at 4:30am. They wanted him to ride with them to the hunting location in hopes of getting some footage for the episode. I'm not sure how well that went because he was a little shy at first.
Rayden fell asleep in the blind but Dalton woke him up when the deer began roaming. Michael and I were not able to go out with him because there wasn't enough space with all the camera's and the crew. I suppose we will find out when the episode aires. All I know is, Rayden shot a super fat doe. After the dust settled, they picked us up to help him 'find' the doe. We took some great pictures and completed the traditional blood smear on the face. Blood smearing is best described as a social ritual that initiates newcomers to the hunting ranks. It is considered a rite of passage. Even though Rayden didn't really like it at the time, he brags about it now.
Rayden fell in love with Dalton Gould, and by the end of the weekend he was following him and copying his every move. The memories he made will last a lifetime!! It was an amazing experience!! I can never thank Dream Hunt Foundation enough for making this unforgettable experience possible for Rayden. A special thank you to the land owners, guides, film crew, cooks, volunteers…EVERYONE!! I pray you continue to bless children with these unforgettable memories.
