Brandon Johnson of Jamico Construction and his wife, Victoria Fluhart, were devastated by the recent tornado that hit Waterloo. The couple had just relocated to the area to start an equine therapy business on a property owned by Johnson.
Fluhart was in the process of preparing for an open house to showcase her business when the storm struck, causing significant damage. Despite the danger, Fluhart’s first priority was to save the horses on the property. In doing so, she sustained injuries but managed to rescue several horses. Sadly, her beloved mare Onyx did not survive the storm. Fluhart had owned Onyx for 18 years and considered her more than just a horse; she was a partner, therapist, and friend.
Although heartbroken by the loss of Onyx, Fluhart is determined to continue pursuing her dream of offering equine therapy in the community with her husband’s support. With help from the community, they plan to construct a new building on their property and hope to host their open house this summer thanks to donations from those who care about their cause.
The couple expressed gratitude for all those who have helped during the cleanup process and see this as an opportunity to start anew. While they know that the road ahead may not be easy, they are committed to honoring Onyx’s memory by fulfilling their shared dream of providing equine therapy services in Waterloo.
Fluhart hopes that through her work with horses and people alike, she can bring healing and joy back into people’s lives after such a difficult experience.
The community has come together in support of Fluhart and Johnson as they rebuild their business with determination and resilience.