Faith, a remarkable white mare, recently celebrated her 44th birthday, a truly astonishing feat for a horse, especially one with her challenging medical history. Her journey, from a neglected and ailing animal to a beloved therapy horse, is a testament to the resilience of animals and the power of compassionate care. Found listed online for free, a clear indicator of her dire circumstances, Faith was rescued by Lucky Horse Sanctuary in Coconut Creek, Florida, in 2020. Upon arrival, she bore the marks of neglect and abuse, suffering from bite wounds, malnourishment, overgrown teeth that hindered her ability to eat, and untreated Equine Cushing’s disease (PPID), a hormonal disorder affecting the pituitary gland. Adding to her woes, Faith was also diagnosed with skin tumors, likely present long before her rescue but left unattended.
Faith’s condition upon arrival at the sanctuary was grim. Her emaciated frame and numerous injuries painted a stark picture of neglect. The overgrown teeth, a common issue in older horses but exacerbated by neglect, made it painful and difficult for her to eat, contributing to her malnourished state. The untreated PPID further complicated her health, disrupting her hormone balance and likely contributing to her overall weakness. The presence of skin tumors, later identified as sarcomas, common in lighter-colored horses due to sun sensitivity, indicated a long period of unchecked growth and a lack of basic veterinary care. Her story is a heartbreaking example of the suffering endured by animals when their basic needs are ignored.
Despite the daunting prognosis, Dr. Blair Barone, the founder of Lucky Horse Sanctuary and a licensed clinical psychologist, refused to give up on Faith. Recognizing the horse’s inherent spirit and the potential for healing, Dr. Barone and her team embarked on a comprehensive treatment plan. This included addressing her dental issues, managing her PPID, and tackling the challenging task of treating her advanced skin cancer. Remarkably, through a combination of stem cell treatments, surgeries, and dedicated care, Faith’s cancer was successfully eradicated. Her recovery defied the odds, given her age and the severity of her condition, and stands as a testament to the advances in veterinary medicine and the unwavering dedication of those who cared for her.
Faith’s transformation didn’t end with her physical recovery. As she regained her strength and spirit, it became clear that she possessed a unique gift for connecting with people. This innate ability, coupled with her own history of hardship, made her an ideal candidate for equine therapy. Today, Faith works with individuals struggling with PTSD, addiction, and developmental disorders, offering a calming presence and a powerful symbol of resilience. Her ability to read people’s emotions, a characteristic often attributed to horses, is particularly pronounced in Faith, likely honed by her own experiences.
The bond between Faith and those she helps is profound. Her past traumas resonate with patients who have experienced abuse or neglect, fostering a sense of shared understanding and connection. The very fact that Faith survived and thrived despite her hardships provides a powerful message of hope and healing. Her story demonstrates that even in the darkest of circumstances, recovery and transformation are possible. Faith’s presence is a reminder that vulnerability can be a source of strength, and that even the most wounded spirits can find solace and purpose.
Faith’s 44th birthday celebration was a joyous occasion, a celebration of life, resilience, and the transformative power of compassion. Her story, documented and shared on Chewy’s YouTube channel, has touched countless hearts, inspiring awe and admiration for this remarkable horse. From a neglected and ailing animal facing an uncertain future, Faith has emerged as a beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring spirit of animals and the profound impact they can have on our lives. Her journey is a reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the incredible rewards that come from offering love and care to those in need.
