KH Heavenly Rodeo for Changing Lives, One at a Time

The 3^rd annual KH Heavenly Memorial Rodeo is set for Saturday, April 15^th. The event honors the memory of Kelci Ann Howell, the beloved daughter of an Oologah family. Held at the Oologah Roundup Club, the day-long event starts with Mini Bull Riding for children and youth at 11 am and culminates with the main rodeo event kicking off at 7 pm. Mutton Busting for children 7 years and younger is a highlight of the event and will take place at 6 pm. Updates and sign-ups for all rodeo events will be announced via the KH Heavenly Facebook page at (20+) KH Heavenly | Oologah OK | Facebook

“Kelci made a change in this world one person at a time and I want to continue to do that for her,” said her mother, Elizabeth Howell. “She made a huge impact in a short 15 years and even though she is no longer here with us, she is still changing lives,” added Howell.

A Love For Horses

Kelci was active in Oologah FFA and loved all animals but her biggest passion was horses. She enjoyed riding, grooming and giving care to horses and her dream was to be a competitive barrel racer so a rodeo in her memory makes perfect sense. Kelci loved to go fast and she always said she felt free and when she rode and it took all her problems away.

After an FFA trip to Oklahoma State University to tour the Veterinary School, Kelci knew that was where she would pursue her dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Knowing how therapeutic it was for her, Kelci also dreamed of a place where people of all ages could ride and receive counseling. She wanted a place where anyone could go and talk and share their problems without being judged. She wanted kids to meet other kids that were struggling with the same problems such as anxiety, depression, bullying or anything else that was making them feel down. She wanted them to know that it's a common struggle, that they are not alone and it’s okay to ask for help.

In honor of all her dreams and passions, Kelci’s family chose three areas of focus for the rodeo proceeds: scholarship opportunities to the Oklahoma State's Veterinary Program, a therapeutic riding arena, and mental health awareness. For more information about attending the rodeo, becoming a rodeo sponsor, participating in the rodeo or making a donation to KH Heavenly, contact Elizabeth Howell at 918-443-0061.