American Charities

Western Wishes: “Leaving a Legacy of Goodwill the Cowboy Way!”

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What makes a cowboy? A record-breaking rodeo score, a flashy belt buckle, a fast horse? While these might be fun additions to the cowboy way of life, the greatest qualities of a cowboy can be learned from our littlest cowboys and cowgirls: strength, bravery, and a fighting spirit.

Photos Courtesy of Western Wishes Facebook

Going Strong Since 1994

Since 1994 Western Wishes has been making dreams come true for hundreds of young cowboys and cowgirls who are fighting their greatest battles. From terminal medical conditions such as cancer to life-altering conditions such as brain and spinal cord injuries, Western Wishes believes in making dreams a reality for kiddos, who even in the face of medical adversity, love the western way of life. 

Photos Courtesy of Western Wishes Facebook

Unique in their approach compared to traditional Wish foundations, Western Wishes serves children with both terminal and non-terminal conditions. 

“Dedicated to children and young adults faced with adversity who live and appreciate the western way of life. Western Wishes celebrates the courage, spirit, and determination of these individuals by granting wishes and highlighting accomplishments. Western Wishes recognizes that chosen recipients can inspire others with similar conditions to find hope and strength to make the best of their situation. Western Wishes initiates, furthers, and supports events and actions that facilitate such inspiration.”

-Western Wishes Mission Statement

“Encouraging the Fighting Spirit”

While their medical histories and stories are individual and unique, one commonality between recipients of the Western Wishes program is a shared love for the western lifestyle. From horse show competitors, rodeo fans, and ranch-raised kids, to lovers of country music, recipients possess a “fierce competitive spirit which allows them to focus on their goals, rather than their affliction” (westernwishes.org).

Photos Courtesy of Western Wishes Facebook

Success and Lifelong Impact

From meeting their favorite rodeo athletes and country music artists, competing in their dream horsemanship competitions, to attending their dream western industry events, hundreds of stories depict the great success and lifelong impact of the Western Wish program. Through participation, these inspirational children, teens, and young adults become “Ambassadors of Hope,” as they continue to inspire and display courage and determination in the face of adversity. 

Life Armor Labs Partners with Western Wishes to Promote Lifelong Wellness

Integral to the success of Western Wishes is its long-standing partnership with Life Armor Labs, a pioneer in bioenergetic technology. Life Armor’s revolutionary DNA BioEnergetic Technology has been instrumental in enhancing the well-being of children served by Western Wishes.

Recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for its ability to optimize the human bioenergetic DNA sign wave, Life Armor’s technology fosters greater cell-to-cell communication, bolsters bioprotective effects, and promotes a reduced sympathetic response, ultimately facilitating a return to homeostasis.

Bull Riding legend Gary Leffew and Life Armor Founder Carl “Buzz” Thompson

Passion

At the forefront of this partnership is Carl “Buzz” Thompson, a luminary in the field of bioenergetics whose expertise has greatly enriched the initiatives of both Western Wishes and Life Armor. Thompson’s passion for advancing human potential aligns seamlessly with the mission of Western Wishes, as he continues to play a pivotal role in harnessing the transformative power of bioenergetic technology to bring hope and healing to children in need.

CLN Co-Founder OD with Life Armor Founder “Buzz” Thompson

Together, Western Wishes, Life Armor, and Carl “Buzz” Thompson exemplify the remarkable impact that collaboration and innovation can have in creating positive change. As they continue to work hand in hand, they inspire countless others to believe in the power of dreams and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

Taryn Cantrell

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native with a lifelong connection to the rodeo arena. From her roots in barrel racing to her role as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and her involvement with the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn celebrates her western heritage with enthusiasm and authenticity. Taryn holds a degree in Vocal Performance from Arizona State University, allowing her to merge her passion for music with her love of cowboy culture. As a singer and bassist, Taryn performs with bands across Phoenix and beyond including Great American Regret, Honey Marie Knight, and Sareena Dominguez. Taryn is passionate about blending her diverse interests to offer an authentic and engaging perspective on journalism. Her goal is to connect readers to the events, concerts, and celebrations that matter most, bringing them closer to the experiences she treasures. Whether you’re attending your very first rodeo or adding another to your collection of memories, Taryn is here to guide you every step of the way!

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