Gigi was first introduced to horses at Girl Scout camp after a terrifying experience on a runaway horse. She recalls this event and immediately says “now there isn’t a horse that scares me”. Now, in her 60s, Gigi focuses on being one with her horse and enjoying the ride.

The stories of her first horse, years of horse ownership, and riding all over the world are so captivating. Gigi overcame childhood cancer and manages resulting scoliosis by riding and utilizing the horse’s movement to help with backaches and pains.

When pursuing her Bachelor’s degree, Gigi aimed to talk the easiest foreign language class she could, American Sign Language. To her surprise, it was not that easy but was something she became passionate about. Years later, she has picked up her passion again with the goal to become an interpreter for the deaf community.

She cautioned us against the concept of “deaf pity”, teaching about deaf culture and not just signing for funsies. It’s a matter of accessibility, not disability.

Gigi combined her passion of ASL interpretation and horseback riding and navigated to a farm called Bella Peregrina Ranch where she still rides today.

Our Favorite Quote: “The more experienced you are, the more you shut up.”

**On this episode, you will notice an additional guest, Dr. Erick R. Smith. Dr. Smith is an ASL Interpreter from Jacksonville, NC and graciously joined us on this episode. Connect with him on Facebook.

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