Dylin’s Buck

Dylin’s Buck

By Cami Polzin

My son Dylin is a mentally and physically challenged young man who loves to hunt with his dad.  He has never let his disabilities stop him from doing what he loves.  In December 2021, he had the opportunity to hunt in the disabled youth hunt at Low's Trophy Whitetail Ranch.  

He looked forward to the big day with so much anticipation and of course some nerves.  He practiced shooting in our backyard several times. His dad reminded him of everything he had taught him over the years and I reminded him to take a deep breath, especially when he saw the giant deer I knew he would see.  

The big day finally came. Snow, frigid temps and ice were predicted. Dylin, his dad Duane and Mid-Michigan SCI board member Autumn Gonda set out for Falmouth, Michigan, with high hopes of taking a once in a lifetime trophy deer.

They arrived at the ranch and were taken out to the blind.  Not long after, some deer came in.  Duane said, "They were absolutely amazing...unlike anything I have ever seen. Our jaws literally dropped. I don't know who was more excited, him or me."  At 2:40 pm, three deer came in. Leon told Dylin which one to target. Dylin took a shot. He looked at his dad and with excitement in his voice said, "I got him dad!"  The deer was tracked and found at 5:14pm.  Dylin and his dad were in tears. Dylin had taken down a 9 point....his first buck.  An experience he will never forget.  He laid on his buck, totally overwhelmed with emotion.  

Dylin, his dad and I cannot express our gratitude enough. Disabilities are a challenge but they don’t define a person.  Dylin continues to overcome these adversities.  He just earned his driver’s license and participated in the Summer Special Olympics in swimming and brought home three medals.  

Thank you again, Leon, of Lowe"s Trophy Whitetail Ranch, his sponsor Autumn and SCI (First for Hunters Mid-Michigan Chapter).