CACHE VALLEY, Utah— Deserae Turner, once an avid horseback rider and competitor, had her life dramatically altered in 2017 when she was shot in the head. The incident led to years of recovery and change for the 14-year-old girl, who had to leave behind the world she once loved.
For her sister, Lizzy Turner Leslie, being around horses was a reminder of the life Deserae could no longer live. “It was emotionally difficult to be near horses and friends because it reminded us of the life she couldn’t lead anymore,” Lizzy shared with ABC4.com.
However, on April 12, Deserae fulfilled one of her final wishes — to once again be part of the equestrian world. After a recent health setback, Deserae made the difficult decision to enter hospice care, and one of her last requests was to attend a horse show and ride once more.
The family organized a special event to honor her wish: a small, intimate horse show with close friends and family. The show featured people like Savannah Pickett, a friend Deserae had met years ago at a competition. Savannah traveled from Colorado to take part in the event, proudly riding in Deserae’s honor. “I’m not here for me. I’m here for her,” Savannah said, reflecting the deep bond they shared.
Deserae herself participated in the show, riding in a two-wheeled carriage pulled by a horse through an obstacle course. Her sister Kaycee shared, “Today is emotional, nostalgic, and joyous all at once. It’s such a special moment for us all.”
Throughout her competitive years, Deserae had earned numerous ribbons, becoming a beloved figure in the horse show community. Savannah fondly recalled their time together, saying, “We matched our horses and wore the same colors, always with smiles on our faces, no matter the circumstances.”
Her other sister, Madasyn, also competed that day, stating how Deserae had shaped her life. “Des is such an incredible person, and without her, I wouldn’t be who I am today,” Madasyn said.
Lizzy expressed her gratitude for the support of the people who had been with them through it all, saying, “We are so thankful to those who showed up today, supporting us just like they always have.”
A Life Marked by Courage and Resilience
Deserae’s life changed forever in 2017 when she was shot by two of her classmates in Smithfield, Utah. The brutal attack left her with severe injuries, but she fought through, undergoing nearly 50 procedures and 16 brain surgeries over the years. Despite the traumatic experience, Deserae remained determined. She graduated high school, served a mission for her church, and even married.
Now, after enduring years of pain and health complications, including a recent diagnosis of septic pulmonary emboli, Deserae has chosen to enter hospice care. “I’ve endured so much pain, and now it’s time to find peace,” she shared.
With her health declining, Deserae’s family set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical and funeral expenses. In just a few days, the fundraiser surpassed $50,000, reflecting the overwhelming support from their community.
Deserae remains at peace with her fate, saying, “I’m not scared of what’s to come. I know where I’m going, and I’m ready to get there.”
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