In Sydney, 12-year-old Brodie Pankhurst has consistently discovered solace in the world of show horse competitions. These cherished times with his adored horses, Promise and Ruby, brought him happiness in spite of the difficulties posed by his disability
Brodie is living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a rare genetic condition that progressively diminishes his muscle strength. Doctors have made an awful prediction regarding his life expectancy, suggesting he may not reach the age of 30.
In the face of his challenges, Brodie has actively pursued opportunities to remain engaged and embrace life to the fullest. He depends on an electric wheelchair, as his muscles are no longer able to support him.
With traditional sports off the table, show horse competitions became essential for his happiness. This activity provided him with direction and a feeling of stability amid a life filled with challenges.
A recent ruling by the New South Wales Arabian Horse Association has diminished Brodie’s happiness. The organization has introduced a new regulation prohibiting all wheeled vehicles from participating in competitions.
Furthermore, the regulation requires that participants wear helmets, adding a layer of complexity to Brodie’s involvement. Brodie’s inability to wear a helmet, which stems from insufficient muscular support, is preventing him from participating in competitions.
Brodie expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, feeling unjustly singled out by the regulation. “It gives me stuff to do because I can’t do other sports … gives me a little more fun,” Brodie told “9News”.
This setback is particularly heartbreaking for a young boy who is already grappling with the harsh truths of a terminal condition. The loss of his competitive edge has brought immense sorrow to him and his family.
Mel Millard, Brodie’s mother, has expressed her concerns regarding the effects this decision has had on their family. She characterized the alteration in regulations as biased, highlighting worries regarding potential safety hazards.
“It’s heartbreaking, he’s a 12-year-old boy… let him go out and do what he loves,” Millard shared on “Today” with hosts Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo. She expressed her feelings openly while talking about the impact on her son.
Brodie’s wheelchair configuration, designed to assist him with his horses, makes it impossible for him to wear a helmet. “Obviously with his wheelchair… with his setup, he can’t wear a helmet because of his [lack of muscular] support,” Millard added.
His recent limitations have put an end to his involvement in show horse competitions. Although these events filled Brodie with happiness, he now finds himself on the sidelines because of the recent rule change.
The NSW Arabian Horse Association clarified that the regulations were in place to ensure the safety of all participants and their horses. Nonetheless, this clarification has provided minimal comfort to the anguish experienced by Brodie and his family.
This decision also affects Brodie’s older sister, adding to the already-present challenges. Ms. Millard disclosed that her daughter faces suspension from competition unless the family decides to forgo any potential legal measures.
Ms. Millard expressed that she might contemplate dropping the legal actions if Brodie was permitted to participate once more. She conveyed optimism that her son might be able to pursue his passions without facing any harassment.
The Pankhurst family has dedicated years to ensuring Brodie has the opportunity to experience a fulfilling life. The recent turn of events has devastated them, snatching away the sole source of his happiness.
Brodie, facing an unpredictable future, continues to be fervent about horses and his ambition to compete. His family remains optimistic that a solution will enable him to step back into the ring and cherish the moments he has ahead
Feature Image Credit: (Instagram/@brodieandhishorses) (TODAY)
