Damian is a 27 years old and lives in Harrisburg, NC with his mom Vicky Davis Samples and his step dad, Dirk Samples, with his three dogs Jojo, Jessie and Luci.

He attended Rocky River Elementary School, Mount Pleasant Middle School, and JN Robinson High School, which he graduated from in 2012. He does not work at this time at a job, but does help around the house with chores. He is very helpful with vacuuming, dusting, laundry, and meal planning. He has two older brothers, but does not see them much, as he spends most of his time with his mom and dad. 

A very special time in Damian's life is when Dirk became his dad! He was so happy and it was one of the most wonderful days for him. Damian is a very loving, caring, and happy guy! He loves to be with friends and family. His favorite thing to do is to go to Wings of Eagles Ranch and ride Della Rae, who he has nicknamed 'ButterCup'! He also likes to go bowling, go out to lunch with friends, spending time with his dogs, riding in the truck, and walking on the beach. He is not fond of loud noises or if the power goes off, as well as when it is HOT.

Damian has Down Syndrome and with that, a lot of things are harder for him, but he tries his hardest. His muscle tone is not very strong or stable, and he does not move very fast, but he is determined. Communication is also a challenge, but he wants so badly to be like everyone else. He just wants to be accepted. 

With coming to Wings of Eagles Ranch, riding the horses, and working with these wonderful people, Damian realizes he is capable and they will help him achieve his goals, making him feel more secure and always wanting to do more. When he first came to The Ranch, he was in elementary school at two different times with his babysitters in the summer. He was very afraid at that point and didn't stick with it, but when he went to middle school, his teacher made all the difference. She was also his worker and she was the one who got him to come back to The Ranch. He continued through high school and even after graduating, he rode on Wednesdays. The a little over a year ago, Chris said he was ready for the independent riding class, so he started doing that. He continued riding in the Wednesday class, because he just did not want to give up that day! He is very happy that he gets to ride two times a day. 

We are very happy with his progress and what this all has done for him!