Hey Everyone.
Sadly, we had to say goodbye to Dark Night, an older black beauty who was struggling with multiple health issues and facing a poor prognosis. I’d spent a lot of time with him and witnessed the extraordinary care he was receiving at 13 Hands; however, it was clear that he was approaching the end of his life. We all knew that there was a good chance he wouldn’t survive the winter. I was prepared. After the news of his passing, I allowed myself a few teary moments and pushed myself to turn my attention to the many rescues who are not only surviving, but thriving.
I like this word—thriving.
Roughly two and a half years ago, my sister Anne was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, no doubt the most frightening experience of her life. She endured an extensive surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Through all of it, she missed only a few days of work, and she never missed a beat being present for her family—her husband; her two children; and their beagle-basset mix, Norman.
Although she lives with scars, pain, and fatigue, Anne is amazing. A survivor, for sure, but also a thriver.
Last week, I brought Anne to 13 Hands for the first time. Anne is an animal lover, and the rescues sensed this. We greeted and spent time with a number of them over their fences—curious, confident, affectionate souls who couldn’t get enough of her attention. Venus, The Warmhearted Red Mare. Pax, The Wonder Mule. Eastwood, The Stunning Mustang. Milagro, The Fiery Colt.
Then we made our way to the minis, who also couldn’t get enough of her. Nutmeg, The Brave Little Paint. Leo and Gracie, The Cutest Couple Around. Kenzie, The Vocalist. And finally Dash, Mr. Resilience himself.
Each one of the rescues Anne met has a backstory shaped by trauma or neglect. Each one of them has had to overcome fear, pain (physical and/or emotional), and exhaustion. And like Anne, each one of them is thriving.
With this note, I offer a toast.
To my sister Anne, to the rescues at 13 Hands, and to you and your loved ones who are not just surviving, but thriving.
I’m in awe of you all.
Karen
