The three year anniversary

Three years. It is so hard to believe that so much time has passed since that fateful day. An emotional rollercoaster ride to say the least. I will never forget receiving the midnight phone call from Bobbi alerting me to the fire and the fact that our horses were missing. So many stories came out of that night. The worst for me was the report of a running horse "on fire". People tried to tell me later that it wasn't true, but when you see Suki's back, it is obvious what happened. The agony of the wait for a telephone call that I hoped would tell me that Suki had been found and was fine. Then the realization that yes, Suki had been found, but critically burned. So many people helped that night, and are heroes to me and Suki. My friend Bobbi, left her own horse at a strange barn to take Suki to New Bolton because I was at home alone with my 3 year old son.

I remember staring at the ruins of the barn that had once housed my beloved girl, and feeling my heart ache, when I thought of the terror and agony she must have experienced that night.

It seems like just yesterday that I walked into ICU, and upon seeing my beautiful girl, feeling like someone had reached in and ripped my heart from my chest....wondering if she would survive. But survive, she most certainly did. And not only that, THRIVED! The amazing staff at New Bolton saved Suki and gave her back to me and her diva personality never faltered. Kelly took over from there, faithfully nursing Suki back to health healing both of us emotionally as well. When we left Kelly's rehab farm daily care was still required and Lori helped me with that. I could never have done it alone. It took a village to save Suki and make her whole again. We are eternally grateful.

Suki demonstrated courage and strength that few can imagine and became an inspiration to people around the world. She has stolen the heart of everyone who meets or reads about her, because Suki has shown us that in spite of physical limitations or imperfections we all have a purpose in life, and we are all special in some way. My beautiful horse has shown me how to appreciate life and those I am fortunate to have in it. We have met so many wonderful people with whom we have shared stories. They have inspired us, just as we have inspired them.

Tonight I toasted Suki's survival with friends.....people I would never have known otherwise, but came into my life because of Suki. I raise my glass to all of you around the globe who read Suki's stories here and on Facebook, and say "thank you" for all of your support.

Suki and I sharing a glass of champagne: