Two weeks ago we had what falls under the category of a "parent's worst nightmare". Our 16 year old daughter had communicated to a friend that she was going to kill herself.  Her friend contacted the police.  At 11 p.m. we heard a knock at the door and found 2 sheriff's deputies waiting there.  They explained why they were there and long story short - it has been a long 2 weeks of therapy and talking and crying and more talking.

A friend of ours mentioned that she has horses and invited Ashley to come see them. An immediate connection was made.  T.J., a 10 year old gelding has been Ashley's savior.  T.J. is a grandson to Secretariat and is such a gentle boy!  Within 2 weeks of spending time with T.J., Ashley's smile has returned.  T.J. gives her someone to talk to. He soaks up her love and trust like a sponge.

Until now Ashley has never spent time with horses.  I believe, after seeing her transformation, that horses should be used far more than they are.  Just allowing a young person the opportunity to make eye contact with a horse is therapeutic.

Horses are angels on earth.  I believe my daughter has a long road ahead of her to heal.  I also know that T.J. will be with her every step of the way.