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for the story of Francis G. and his wonderful partner, Deb.
There are so many people to thank recently that I'm making this my update:
Thank you to Christian Harness Horseman's Association for their recent gift of $235
Thank you to S. and B. Edwards for their AMAZING donation of $2,500!!!!!!!! This is the largest contribution ever received by an individual or family! They have placed several horses with us throughout the past few years and we thank them!
Thanks to D. Hart for donation of two boxes of supplements, bandages, cotton rolls, bute, iodine, and disinfecting solution. She has been faithful to provide for the horses in need here at the farm, mostly Haiaku and Precious KC as they battle with their arthritis here in the frigid temperatures
Western Sunset 4-H club: This wonderful club held horse shows last year, raising $200 for ASAP Inc. We so very much appreciate this!
J. Mudry for D. Lopez: $100 per month sponsorship pledged for ASAP Inc.
Bryan and Kim K. for their recent donation of $150
Mary Edwards for her weekly commitment to the horses here at ASAP and her donation of supplies
Lynette L. for her ongoing donations of feed and supplements and bedding throughout 2004
B. Reimer for her sponsorship of Bob Cook throughout the year
C. Miller for his sponsorship of Arne throughout the year
IHHA for their continuing financial support.
On January 29 ASAP is being honored at the IHHA Hall of Fame dinner at Balmoral Park in Illinois. We are so very grateful for this mention - eagerly anticipate the opportunity to be present with all people from the harness racing industry!
On January 29 we have been asked to present a 30 minute speech at the Tomah 4-H club all about ASAP. We will find a way to juggle both activities that day! Any volunteers to go to Tomah?
AN AMAZING THING IS HAPPENING WITH HAIAKU!
As you know. I have been getting nervous, watching Haiaku's good leg become progressively weaker with time. His hock on his good leg is becoming enlarged, and it is becoming increasingly harder for him to get around. My imagination went wild, almost in desperation I was thinking of making up some PVC piping to help support his bad leg or his good leg, or both. Also, I imagined a contraption similar to what dogs use when their back legs are paralyzed or injured - where they strap their legs to a set of wheels, then fasten the strap over their backs. The vet said the PVC would cause skin breakdown and it was hard on a horse, and the other far-fetched ideas were impossible. My silent prayers were heard, because last week out of the blue I recieved an email from a professional in Texas, talking about Dynasplints, and offering help to any 501 c 3 rescues who had cases that would qualify for their services. I immediately emailed and wrote J. Caldwell, and she called right back. After explaining Haiaku's situation, she believes that they most certainly can help Haiaku, if not CORRECT some of his contracture that has occurred over the years. In my mind I imagined the dollar signs, but they have assured ASAP that we shouldn't worry about this at this time. We are in the process of taking pictures and emailing to Texas, and having the vet design splints specifically for Haiaku. This is like a miracle happening - if we can give Haiaku 10 more years of quality life... I know he must have a guardian angel who sees him worthy of all that technology can do for him! I know he DOES deserve it. I keep telling him, "Don't worry, Haiaku - help is on the way!!!"
I will continue to update you on how things progress
Do you remember Francis G from last year? (Erv Miller, trainer).. The STB who suffered a severe skull fracture but survived and found a loving home through ASAP? Maybe you have read his testimonial, from the couple who adopted him in Wyoming. They absolutely adore this horse and sent pictures along with his story. I forwarded it over to the USTA, and we do believe that we are in the beginning stages of Equus doing a feature story on him and his life with Deb and Len ... it is touching heartwarming, and tear-provoking! We will let you know once it becomes a reality and which issue to buy to see yet another ASAP horse glow!
It is 14 below outside and I am not happy. Horses are scheduled to go to their new homes in Mississippi where it is 60 degrees... Master Miles, the STB rescue, and Zagnut all waiting for us to load up and go. Look Della just in - a big beautiful bay mare... and many more waiting to arrive! Look for pictures soon.
Until next time stay warm!
Susan
