LAST UPDATED: May 1st, 2015
Written by Bowhunting.com contributor Art Helin.
Drake Taylor lived life to the fullest. He brought smiles to everyone who met him in all walks of life. Drake was 18 when he passed away on November 28th, 2012 from complications of MoyaMoya and MOPD type 2 dwarfism. Drake loved everything about life and did everything he could in his short 18 years. He loved hunting, fishing, Special Olympics, hiking and anything else he could do outdoors.
In addition to all of this, Drake had another passion and it was to help “kids” and their families. After Drakes death, his parents Randy and Beverly decided, with the help of some friends, to start a charity in his honor. Drake’s legacy lives on in Big Hearts Outdoors; an organization whose mission is to provide access to outdoor family experiences for special needs children and young adults.
At Big Hearts Outdoors, we believe that:
• All special needs children and young adults should have access to outdoor adventures.
• Special needs children and young adults benefit mentally and physically from outdoor activities.
• Everyone involved with these types of outdoor adventures are enriched and fulfilled by the experiences.
• Sharing the memories created on these journeys will inspire more people to reach out to help others in need.
Big Hearts Outdoors strives to share Drake’s family motto of “Do your best, have fun, and hang around good people.”
Look for Beverly and Randy Taylor, and Big Hearts Outdoors, in the Little D Designs jewelry booth at the Ohio and Wisconsin Field & Stream Deer & Turkey expos this spring (more show info). Little D Designs is featuring a special pewter pendant that has been designed in Drake’s honor. The pendant is available as a key chain or necklace, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit Big Hearts Outdoors. If you are unable to attend the shows check out the website at www.littleddesigns.com
To donate or learn more about Big Hearts Outdoors, visit www.bigheartsoutdoors.org or email [email protected] .
