By Mindy Ragan Wood
Staff Writer
EL RENO – Hearts were full and smiles were aplenty last Friday night during the Tim Tebow Night to Shine event in El Reno.
Youth and adults with disabilities all over the world celebrated the differences that make them special with the annual prom hosted by the former college football quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner.
Residents from the Center of Family Love in Okarche, special needs students from Yukon and central Oklahoma danced, enjoyed dinner, karaoke and photos. Each party guest was accompanied by a first responder from Yukon, El Reno and the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office. The prom was held at the Lincoln Learning Center in El Reno.
Elizabeth Reeve twirled around in her wheelchair on the dance floor, accompanied by two service dogs. “I come out to things like this to inspire others,” Reeve said.
Reeve is a multi-pageant winner and holds several titles including American Majestic Legacy Queen. She is preparing to complete her master’s degree in business.
Dancers were not the only ones strutting their stuff during the night, but a Clydesdale horse from Express Ranch was on hand and loving the attention. He was placed outside near a limousine where anyone could take a ride in the luxurious party on wheels.
The horse is called Tigger after the Winnie the Pooh character.
“It helps kids who come to the ranch not be so afraid to approach the horse,” handler Tabitha Hageman said. “they hear Tigger and they get excited.”
Debbie Espinosa, executive director for the Center of Family Love, said she is grateful for the event and its significance for special needs youth and adults.
“We can’t begin to express our appreciation for our community and the incredible way everyone came together to support our residents at Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine Prom. El Reno High School allowed us to transport our residents to and from the prom in their activity bus, and we had many donated prom dresses and volunteers who helped with nails and hair. Our generous community made this night possible for those who would otherwise never have had this experience.”
