Something happened last month on the grounds of the Stock Show and Rodeo that some who witnessed it describe as a miracle. The facts seem to support their claim. It wasn't that Dustin Mangus, at age 10, took home 5th place in the Junior Market Goat competition. It wasn't even that he was able to then auction off his goat for more money than he ever thought possible. The fact that young Dustin was able to enter the competition at all was the true miracle. December 8, 2009 is the day that changed Dustin's life forever. The Future Farmers of America club member from Mullin, Texas was riding shotgun to school in his dad's extended-cab pickup truck. His younger brother and sister were riding in the back seat. Dustin was eager to return home that day, to continue grooming the goat he planned to enter in competition at the upcoming Livestock Show. It was raining that morning. Suddenly, their truck spun out of control, rolled over and slammed roof-first into a tree. Dustin's father David died on impact. The man's three children were all rushed to the hospital where two of them were treated and later released. Dustin's injuries, though, were life-threatening. The boy was rushed into emergency surgery to remove a piece of dashboard that impaled his head. For days, it was touch and go - his condition listed as critical. He would later undergo reconstructive facial surgery. Then came a remarkably fast recovery. Less than three months after the accident, Dustin stood before San Antonio livestock auction buyers, holding his prize goat, while they listened to his incredible story of tragedy, loss and survival. When the bidding opened, the price for Dustin's goat was already at $20,000. But corporate representatives in attendance kept bidding up the price, which went to $60,000 with record speed. Then, individuals started making personal contributions out of their own pockets. Even non-registered buyers started coming forward to make contributions of their own. The price of Dustin's goat kept spiraling upward. When it hit $110,000, Shining Star Ranches and Rush Enterprises collaborated to make it an even $150,000! The gavel came down on the highest priced animal at this year's Junior Livestock auction. From the audience, Dustin's grandfather came down to stand next to him, choking back tears of gratitude and joy. He took the microphone and, in a shaky voice said, "Thank you. I don't know what else to say." Beyond all the star performances, the bronco riders, the carnival and everything else, this relatively small and little-known event might very well be the greatest thing that happened at this year's Stock Show and Rodeo.
