A boy from Bedfordshire who first visited the London International Horse Show (LIHS) as a seven-year-old cancer patient through a Willberry Wish, is returning to the event four years later as a competitor.
Dylan Ward from Keysoe was diagnosed with inoperable stage 4 bone cancer in 2022 at the age of seven. A tumour the size of a small melon had developed in his pelvis and the cancer had spread to his lungs.
After two years of intensive treatment, including chemotherapy, proton beam therapy and radiotherapy, Dylan rang the bell to mark the end of his treatment in April 2024. The cancer and the side effects of his treatment have left him without the use of his left leg.
Throughout his treatment, Dylan continued to ride. There was a period when medical professionals advised he stopped, but they later recognised the positive physical and emotional benefits riding provided.
A special treat
In December 2022 when he was undergoing treatment, Dylan attended LIHS as part of a Willberry Wish with the Willberry Wonder Pony charity. Together with his Mum, Dylan watched an afternoon performance, enjoyed a backstage tour and rode in Santa’s sleigh.
This year, four years after that visit, 11-year-old Dylan is set to return to LIHS as a competitor. He and his pony McFlurry qualified at Ashby Show in July 2026 for the BSPS Performance Pony not exceeding 148cm class.
Dylan and McFlurry, a nine-year-old Dutch New Forest Pony, have competed up to elementary level in dressage and turned to showing earlier this year while Dylan was rehabbing McFlurry following lifesaving colic surgery.
‘So proud’
“We are so excited that Dylan has qualified for the London International Horse Show,” said Dylan’s mum Jessica Flack.
“He has shown so much courage and determination during his cancer treatment, and his commitment to the horses has never wavered.
“They have been a constant source of support throughout his journey and helped him through some incredibly difficult times.
“For him to have qualified for the London International Horse Show, just four years after he attended the Show in very different circumstances, makes me so proud.
“It is one of our favourite shows and we can’t wait to be a part of it. Roll on December!”
Images © Georgia Kendall.
