Sharing your passion with your children is a nearly indescribable feeling, especially if they show a natural interest in it. I think it is something every parent quietly dreams about. We all know our kids are their own people and could very well show no interest in what we love. That’s why when it does happen, it feels extra rewarding to experience that passion with them and envision a life of bonding over it.
I can imagine that is how rodeo champion Kelsie Domer felt whenever her little girl, Oaklynn Rae Domer, was on the rodeo circuit with her. Now, though, her sweet girl has died in a freak accident involving a horse, and I cannot imagine the complicated feelings Domer is having about her life’s passion in the wake of a horrific tragedy.
The New York Post reported that Domer was holding her daughter while leading their family horse around when suddenly the horse had a “medical episode” that caused the animal, which typically weighs 900 to 1,200 pounds, to fall on top of the toddler. The 10-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association world champion’s little girl was officially declared dead after life-saving measures were taken, leaving them utterly devastated.
“Oaklynn packed a lot in her short time with us,” Oaklynn’s obituary read. “Traveling the rodeo circuit all over the US, hitting the practice pen with mom and dad, and loving her family with all her heart. She loved frogs, horses, everybody’s puppies, going to ‘yodeos’, and hanging out with all her friends.”
According to the tribute, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rope Like A Girl, an organization that helps fund scholarships for young female rodeo athletes, to help the family and to establish a scholarship honoring Oaklynn.
Condolences poured in for the bereft parents on the toddler’s obituary.
“My heart breaks for your family and the tragedy you have endured. May your heart have peace knowing she is safe in the arms of the only other we can wholeheartedly trust with our children – the Lord himself,” wrote one mourner. “While impossible to imagine now, may her legacy live on through you and your testimony. Prayers sent from coastal NC.”
“I too have lost a child, there is no greater pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,” added another commenter.
The rodeo community has been rallying around Kelsie and her family as well. According to E! News, breakaway ropers donned pink in honor of Oaklynn during a February 20 event in San Antonio, Texas. Kelsie showed her gratitude and support on social media, writing: “I know my baby girl loved seeing all of that PINK.”
Though the couple has not publicly commented on the loss of their girl, the strength they are showing in her memory through their actions and social media interactions is truly admirable.
