From Combat Boots to Cowboy Boots—How One Army Veteran Is Transforming Lives Through Service Animals, Training, and Community Healing
I'm deeply honored to share that I have been selected as one of Surprise City Lifestyle’s Influential Women of the Year 2025, featured in their Best of the West issue! This recognition celebrates women who are not only leaders in their field—but changemakers in their community. And I am proud to represent both my home state of Arizona and our mission at Legend Acres, Legend’s Heroes, and Ride With Honor.
The Journey from Service to Service
After proudly serving in the U.S. Army as a Combat Veteran Preventive Medicine Specialist, I had dreams of continuing my path in the Army Veterinary Corps. But life had other plans. Following a medical retirement, I took the passion I had for animals and service—and built a new mission from the ground up.
Legend Acres was born in honor of my heart dog, Legend—a Golden Retriever who inspired me to build something bigger than myself. What started as a training and wellness initiative for dogs and horses quickly evolved into a nationwide movement, offering:
Affordable, science-based service dog training
Equine-assisted therapy and natural horsemanship
Job creation and mentorship for fellow Veterans and military spouses
Scholarships through the nonprofit Legend’s Heroes
Why This Recognition Matters
Being named an Influential Woman of the Year is about more than titles—it's about the impact behind the work. At Legend Acres, we fight every day to prevent behavioral euthanasia, empower families with service animals, and break down financial barriers to life-changing training. Every dog we train. Every Veteran we mentor. Every family we support. That’s the legacy we’re building together.
We’ve helped hundreds of individuals across the country gain confidence, independence, and healing—through the powerful bond between humans and animals.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you to Surprise City Lifestyle for this incredible honor, and to every client, supporter, and friend who’s walked this path with us. This is your victory too. I’m just getting started—and I’m taking Arizona with me.
Let’s Keep Leading with Purpose
If you're looking for results-driven training, a community-centered approach, and a partner in your animal wellness journey—Legend Acres is here for you.
Join us. Train with us. Grow with us.
