How it all began

Some kids dream of becoming a firefighter, doctor, or police officer. Not me. From an early age, I knew my path was different—I wanted to be a rodeo clown and bring laughter to audiences everywhere.

I grew up in a rodeo family. My dad competed in bareback riding when he was younger, and although he had retired by the time I came along, we still attended rodeos often, especially at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center. That was where I first noticed the rodeo clowns—the way they could light up the arena with jokes, antics, and pure joy. At home, I would practice imitating them, never realizing how important that dream would one day become.

Then, on September 22, 2004, my life changed forever. At just six years old, I had a 4-wheeler accident that left me with a traumatic brain injury. The machine flipped and landed on top of me, and I was airlifted to Mission Hospital. Doctors placed me on life support and weren’t sure I would make it through the night. I spent nearly three weeks in a coma before being transferred to Charlotte Health & Rehabilitation Center, where I slowly relearned how to walk, talk, and eat. By December 1, I was finally able to return home.

The journey was hard—for me and for my family—but I recovered fully. Today, I am living the dream I once imagined as a child: working as a professional rodeo clown. For over 12 years now, I’ve traveled to more than 40 rodeos each year across the Southeast and Northeast. Every performance feels like a blessing, a second chance at life that I don’t take for granted.

My accident taught me something important: life is fragile, and the smallest moments are gifts we should never overlook. Since leaving the hospital, I’ve tried to live each day with a smile, making the most of every opportunity and spreading joy wherever I go. I’ve adopted a personal motto—“No matter what your obstacles are in life, always follow your dreams.”

Two Bible verses guide me each day. Joshua 1:9 reminds me, “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” And Philippians 4:13 strengthens me with, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Without God’s presence, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Prayer carried me through recovery, and it continues to guide me in the arena and in life.

Life is not easy. We all face struggles, doubts, and hardships, but we must keep our heads high, trust in ourselves, and put our faith in God. Prayer changes things. Love deeply. Spread joy. Share kindness. I believe each of us is born with a unique gift, and our purpose is to use that gift to encourage and inspire others.

For me, that purpose is clear. My gift is laughter, and my calling is to bring joy to rodeo crowds while reminding people of the blessings around them. Each year, on the anniversary of my accident, I share my story as a reminder of how far I’ve come and as a message of hope for anyone facing their own battles.

Life is short. Your life is your message to the world—make it count. A smile, a laugh, or a kind word can completely change someone’s day. If you ever feel lost or wonder if there is more to life, know this: there is more. Keep going. You’re not alone.

That is the beginning of Cowpaty the Rodeo Clown—and the story that continues today.