As almost 4,800 people show their support online for Tryon equestrian and mother, Amy Barrington, hundreds others are putting their money, time, thoughts and prayers to work as they support Barrington’s recovery and her family.

Barrington sustained severe brain injuries a Sept. 4 during a riding accident. She is currently receiving medical attention and therapy at The Shepherd’s Center in Atlanta, Ga.

Family friend Stephanie Johnson has helped organize a car wash for Saturday, Sept. 21. Johnson said she’s known Barrington for about seven years and said she is more than deserving of the outpouring of support.

“She is one of the nicest people you will ever meet – she always has a smile on her face no matter the situation,” Johnson said.

A reception and auction to benefit Barrington, held Saturday, Sept. 21 at FENCE, brought out more than 300 equestrians, family and horse trial participants.

All proceeds from the event, hosted by the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club (TR&HC), went to the Equestrian Aid Foundation (EAF).

Monies were also raised at the EAF/Amy Barrington silent auction on site. More than 200 items donated by both the local and national equestrian community kept participants busy and competitive at the auction. Volunteers, within a six-day time frame, worked tirelessly to pull off a fun and profitable event. The evening fundraiser was capped off with a taco supper catered by Paul Dale’s Foothills Mountain BBQ.

EAF is a national 501(c) 3 dedicated to helping equestrians with catastrophic injuries. Sheryl Kursar, EAF managing director and board member, was present for the fundraiser.

“Improving the lives of horsemen in need is our mission. The outpouring of support by the community and TR&HC for EAF is strong. Our organization will assist Amy and her family in the many months to come,” said Kursar.

TR&HC President Nancy Wilson plans on this fundraiser becoming an annual benefit.

“Combined with our recognized horse trails at FENCE, we know this event will be well supported by the local equestrian community and in turn, benefit those locally, most in need,” said Wilson.

Thus far, $17,000 has been raised from the Saturday night event, with more donations and payments in process.

Ongoing fundraising efforts:

Car wash – A car wash will be held this Saturday, Sept. 28 at noon at Ken Feagin’s Truck and Trailer in Landrum. Bracelets supporting Barrington’s recovery will also be sold. All monies will go to Barrington’s recovery.

“I’m really hoping a lot of people will come out because Amy, Greg and Ben are always so considerate of others that we need to show that same kindness to them,” Johnson said.

Wristbands – TR&HC and the Farmhouse are also selling “Ride For Amy” benefit wristbands.

A suggested donation is $5 per bracelet, with 100 percent of proceeds benefitting Amy Barrington and her family. Anyone interested in purchasing a wristband or making a donation can send a check to: Amy Barrington at TR&HC office, FENCE, the Farm House, Little Mountain Farm Supply, The Tack Shop in Greenville and The Hay Rack on Hwy 14. More than $2,500 has been raised so far, from all over the nation.

For more information on how to donate to Barrington, contact the TR&HC at office@trhcevents.org or 828-863-0480.

Flower Fund – An Amy Barrington “Flower Fund” is set up at The Farm House in Landrum so that anyone who might want to send flowers, can consider contributing to a fund offsetting medical costs for the family.

FRC – The Foothills Riding Club Dressage and Schooling Jumping Show to be held Oct. 12 at Harmon Field will be designated as a benefit show for Barrington. Proceeds will be donated to the EAF to help with long-term care. In recognition of the need for ongoing assistance, plans are underway for another benefit in the spring.

To keep up with Barrington’s recovery and additional fundraising efforts, visit www.facebook.com/amybarringtonrecovery.

– Kathryn Cunningham, with TR&HC, contributed to this article