March 6, 2013

Willow Update


My beautiful Willow just one day before she broke her leg...  I remember watching her with a huge smile on my face... thinking how amazing she looked and how far she had come. We finally seemed to be beyond the daily choking struggles, and her weight gain was so noticeable.  I still cannot believe this has happened...

So today Willow is much brighter than yesterday.  She is still laying down a lot, but I think she just needs to get off her feet and rest.  She is eating better (still not enough), and she just seems more alert and in less pain. 

Dr. Kimmons and Martha came this morning to check on Willow, give Charlie & Paloma their shots/coggins and to meet the Gypsy Prince.  We still haven't named him, but that's what the kids have been calling him.  As usual, Willow was an excellent patient.  The Prince, however, was quite naughty and really went a little crazy... nearly knocking Dr. Kimmons & assistant over...  Martha got tough (she's so brave) with him, and then he settled down.  We just don't know enough about his history before his last owner (who only had him a year) to know what he's been through. But we've heard that quite possibly a man had been too rough with him (so sad to hear that).  He's really a sweet boy...

So the plan is for Willow to receive all her meds (except the EPM, probiotics, oils, supplements, etc.) through injection as to not ruin her appetite.  So far, it seems to be helping... we'll see.  In any case, she is just so much better, and I truly appreciate all of the kind words, support, love prayers.   I just know that Willow is a very special horse... not because she's a Friesian or a rescue... and not because she is drop dead gorgeous (because she is)... :)   But I just know there is a greater purpose for her....  her life and struggles and our journey together.  I'm not one to believe in fate or destiny, yet this journey seems somehow that it was meant to be. 

The question remains, though... why?

40 comments:

  1. So, so glad to hear she is better-will keep the good thought and prayers coming.......

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  2. So, so glad to hear she is better-will keep the good thought and prayers coming.......

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  3. Sometimes, it's a long time before you truly know "why". Rest in the knowledge that you have been given this beautiful gift, and know that no matter what happens, Willow's remaining time here on earth will be filled with love and peace. <3

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  4. Kathleen Clayton3/6/13, 4:27 PM

    I believe animals are put on this earth for such a short time to teach us profound lessons. Thru you Willow is teaching us all. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful journey with us.BUT...while she is struggling will you PLEASE update a bit more just to let us know you guys are OK!:D Soooo glad she is doing better!!!

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  5. I am so happy to hear she is doing better!

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  6. Tori Fargnoli3/6/13, 4:29 PM

    I'm so happy to hear she is doing better, your last post yesterday was heart breaking. XOXO

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  7. Great to hear, Shana. And if you can answer that "Why?" question you'll be as sought after as the person who could make puppies stay puppies and kittens remain kittens, lol ;)
    Here's how I look at things... One day you'll be in such an amazingly awesome place that you'll say, "WOW, this (your life) is SO awesome! How did I get so lucky?" Well looking back you'll most likely see all kinds of stepping stones that you had to cross. Some were so-so, some pretty awesome, and some pretty damn shitty. But without going through all of it you wouldn't be were you are in that awesome place. One simple detour along the way and you would have missed out on THAT experience AND altered your path. So why this today? As the Blues Travelers say, "Time is the beauty of the road being long." Without a doubt I do indeed believe you and Willow were brought together for a reason. It's anyone's guess what that reason is and whether or not it will ever be fully answered. YOU, in fact, are the ONLY one who will ever be able to say what the reason(s) is. The answer may or may not come someday, but if you look too hard you will miss much of the precious time you have NOW ;)
    ps - easy for me to say this today, but I know damn well when my pets get to that inevitable point I will be much more a mess than you feel on your bad days ;)
    LOVE

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    1. Thank you so much.. yes I should have also added that there is definitely beauty in the "Why"... I love knowing that our story has touched people's hearts... and moreso when I hear from someone who has been inspired to rescue. Perhaps that is the why... :) I do hope that no one thinks I'm asking why, like why me? or why is this happening to me (in a victim sort of way)... because I am not. I know I.. am very lucky to have her and to be able to help her. And mostly to learn what she is teaching me. I always love your comments & thank you for your undying support! xo

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    2. I would be shocked if anyone took it that way, and I'm sorry if it at all came across in such a way ;)

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    3. Oh I know you didn't... :) I was just realizing that I said "Why" and was having nightmares about Nancy Kerrigan (remember when she got whacked by that Tonya Harding and kept crying Why??" ... I know you get me, Scott... :)

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  8. I saw a bumper sticker on a car the other day...it was in the shape of a paw but read "Who rescued who?"
    Maybe you and Willow are rescuing each other...
    Glad today was better for her.
    Pam in AZ

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    1. In deed we are, Pam... :) Although I think she has done more for me than I have for her...

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  9. So glad to hear she is doing better. Staying off her feet, eating better, more alert...we'll take it. She must get better each day. God brought you on this earth to love and care for those who need a good and loving home. God Bless you Shana. It took me Willow to get me to your blog...not your templates, filters...beautiful as they are. LOL I'll be keeping Willow in my prayers...most especially.

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  10. I am so happy to hear Willow is feeling better today. Your last post was so heart-breaking and I couldn't stop thinking about her ...
    But - if we speak positive words - they will come true! I feel and believe Willow is going to get better once again. She has a tremendous support team behind her and so many people who are following your blog who are rooting for her too!
    Speak positive words - don't let those worries creep in.
    Blessings :)

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  11. So glad she is feeling better!!! Been looking for updates all day!! Saying prayers and more prayers for that sweet girl!!!

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  12. I am so glad to hear that Willow is doing better. I was so afraid to open your blog tonight for fear that she had not improved. I have been following your blogs for many years. You have a heart of gold and I am sure one day you will know the answer to the question Why? Willow has so many people praying for her, I just know in my heart she will be ok.

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  13. Oh she is a resilient girl, but I guess you all already knew that. :)

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  14. I'm happy to read this :) Recovery sure does have it's ups and downs. I hope Willow has more up days!

    I was thinking about Gypsy Prince the other day when I was at my barn. I felt like when I saw his photo a name was on the tip of my tongue. It finally came to me. Nicholas. Not sure why. But Prince Nicholas :) Nicky when he's goofy. I can't wait to hear what you choose!

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  15. It makes my heart happy that Willow is better today! I've been waiting and looking forward to an update in hopes there would be good news...YAY! There will almost always be a "Why" and we may not know the answer in this life, but one day, it will become clear. Give Willow hugs, kisses and candy from all of us!

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  16. So glad she is doing better!! and WHY ... somehow God knew you needed each other! this whole story has captured mine as well as maybe the entire worlds heart. There IS something majestic and magical about her no doubt! Even though her health isn't at it's best, her photographs still y\take your breath away1

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  17. So glad you updated, I was very concerned. Thrilled to know she is doing better.

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  18. Erin from Ohio3/6/13, 6:13 PM

    I've been checking for updates and feel so much better after this one!

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  19. I have to tell you Shana rescuing horses seems much like foster parenting in that you are getting them when they most likely have been mistreaten, unloved, and at the last stage in their life before someone comes along loves them and helps them along. Much like God does with us. Much like my foster parents did with me. Like so many others who have stepped in at a time when no one else was willing to take care some one/some thing. No matter what happens with each horse or child, it was meant to be, whatever happens. Remember friend, to have faith! It's all meant to be...the good, the bad, and the ugly! :) So glad she is better today in spirit. I hope you feel strengthened by her vitality today. Lisa Renier

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  20. Soooo glad to hear Willow had a better day. PTL. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers!

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  21. I absolutely love love this photo of Willow how you manage to capture the true Beauty and Power ... Willow's spirit has truly been displayed

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  22. So so happy to hear that Willow is having a better day! I thought about her several times today, and had to check the blog as soon as I got home from work....just couldn't go to bed without knowing how she was doing ;)
    As for the WHY? Quite honestly, it may already have been answered....and her fate could have been much worse had you not come into her life when you did ;)
    Okay...I can go to sleep now...will continue to keep you all in my prayers :)

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  23. Wonderful news, it is good to hear that Willow is doing better. I pray she continues to improve with each day. As far as why, that is the million dollar question isn't it. Why was Willow mistreated in the first place, why did she end up in your care, and why does she have to continue to overcome difficulties. We may never know the answer to "why", but we can trust God to guide us through all of the triumphs and difficult hours. Maybe, we don't know so we have to lean on and trust God. Keep the faith and know that in every circumstance, God is with you!!

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  24. I will sleep better tonight but will Pray to the gods for Willow ! So Happy she is improving ! Bless You :)

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  25. Roberta Goodman3/6/13, 9:14 PM

    So, so relieved that Willow has improved! Hope this is the first day of only good things.

    In addition to the food suggestions, what about ground flax seed (sold at Costco) and unsweetened applesauce to make her grain more appealing b/c different from what she tasted when she had Bute on her palate? Also, the flax seed has lots of vitamin E which is good for healing and it's great for their coats etc. And perhaps alfalfa cubes if Dr. K approves? My horses LOVE Hoofsnax, which have biotin and other good things in them, and they're available at Co-op and Franklin Kubota. (Also SmartPak, of course!)

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  26. I am so happy Willow is eating a bit- we all live to have hope. When we lose that the whole picture changes. We gave our own hopes- and our hopes for others - there are so many with great hopes for you and for Willow

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  27. Quote "I have to tell you Shana rescuing horses seems much like foster parenting in that you are getting them when they most likely have been mistreaten, unloved, and at the last stage in their life before someone comes along loves them and helps them along. Much like God does with us." I wanted to write something encouraging then saw this comment from Lisa above here and she said it so well. Sometimes we were are tired and afraid we need support likes this. Doesn't mean we are weak just tired and afraid. Be encouraged, only God knows the final outcome but you are doing your best. Whether it is an animal or caring for a sick loved one, do your best and pray for healing, and for strength. Remember you may go through this so down the road you have more understanding for the next one hurting. What if your pain helps you understand that hurting friend like no one else can.
    I think it is good that we talk to each other about our fears and discouragement so they know how to pray for us. I will be praying for you and Willow. Thank you for letting us be a part of both of your's life.

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  28. So so glad things seem to be getting better for her :) You are truly an amazing person Shana! Love following this post

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  29. I have been so afraid to click on Willow's page link after you posted the photo of her laying down, and telling us about the look in her eyes....I literaly let out a sigh of relief when I read your latest post this morning. As everyone else is, I'm so glad to hear that the injections seemed to have helped with her appetite. You both have such a following now, and you can add the Gypsy Prince to the parade too! It's been such a story of hope and life to live along with you! Thank you for sharing it with us!

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  30. Thank you for the update - it makes me so happy to hear that today is better than yesterday.
    (((((Willow))))) and ((((((all careing for her))))))

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  31. feeling much relieved hearing that she is doing better and not worse.
    Queens are strong and proud. Let's wait.

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  32. Thanks for keeping us updated on Willow's journey. You are the best Shana. Willow is blessed to have you in her life and I know you feel the same way about her.

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  33. I'm afraid every day to click on your blog for fear you will have worse news. So many of us are praying for her and all of you who are so lovingly caring for her. I hope she continues to grow stronger and can be well by summer. Good luck and God Bless all of you.

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    1. me too ... afraid to open your blog but then, I have had a horse too, badly injured, 3 surgeries in 2 weeks time, head down after 10 days but with a lot of love, attention, handfeeding, patience, we got him through this awful period ... and after that ... he was soooooooooooo thankful for the rest of his life ....
      Thinking about you a million times a day about what you and Willow are going through.... hugs and positive vibes towards your barn .... love and care and a lot of hugs from Belgium - Europe

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  34. It's the hardest question that we ponder..."Why"? We want to believe that God holds all the answers, and that He will show us "Why" He does the things that He does. I am afraid that we are not always meant to know that answer. We will know one day. I continue to pray for you and for Willow. I only believe good things will come of this...Such a test of faith for you Shana, and a test of sheer will power and strength for Willow. There must be a reason, always believe that. Thinking of all of you, your children, and your family of friends and doctors who are walking a path of miracles to help this gentle beauty. Stay strong, and always believe in Miracles - Sherri

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  35. Shana, Praying for you tonight. Hugs and Love to you and all who love Willow. This picture is just beautiful. She is running around Heaven tonight being the Qween that she is. You will see her again and you will get to ride her like you wanted to in the spring. Hugs and thank you so much for sharing her with us. It is truly a wonderful gift you gave us.

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