Stories of Hope & Resilience

Raymond Francis
Raymond Francis

A Legend of the Hunter Ring

Raymond Francis is a trainer, breeder, and National Show Hunter Hall of Fame inductee whose life was upended by an aortic aneurysm. After prolonged hospitalization and extensive rehabilitation, the equestrian community rallied around him.

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Meribeth White
Meribeth White

Reinventing Herself

For 43 years, Meribeth was a career groom among the hunter-jumper circuit's elite. A routine back surgery went catastrophically wrong, leaving her with permanent kidney and neurological damage. With EAF's support, Meribeth is rebuilding her life with courage and determination.

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Alena Weida
Alena Weida

Hopeful for a Bright Future

Western rider and animal technician Alena Weida suffered two accidents that resulted in a traumatic brain injury diagnosis. With the help of EAF, she is affording specialized therapies that give her hope for recovery.

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Allison Angove
Allison Angove

A Family's Determination

Sixteen-year-old eventer Allison suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall, spending 14 months in a coma and enduring 15 surgeries. Given a 10% chance of recovery, Allison and her family continue to push forward with EAF's support.

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Trevor
Trevor

Soaring to New Heights

A lifelong farrier, Trevor was kicked so badly that both his kneecap and femur shattered, ending his career. After losing his home and marriage, EAF helped him purchase land in New Mexico and rebuild his life.

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Stacey Small
Stacey Small

Back in Top Form

Creator of Sore No-More and co-publisher of The Holistic Horse Magazine, Stacey was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Physically and financially depleted by treatment, EAF provided a monthly stipend and renewed hope. Stacey is now in remission.

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Kathy Poppe-Pullen
Kathy Poppe-Pullen

Determined to Adapt

Hunter-jumper professional Kathy became a double amputee due to an autoimmune syndrome. Despite losing both her legs and eventually her farm, she was named 2015 Trainer of the Year. With EAF support, Kathy continues to move forward.

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Kirk
Kirk

Overcoming Devastating Health Challenges

Kirk was forced to close his hunter/jumper business due to hepatitis C and liver failure. After years of illness and near-complete reliance on family, EAF's grant helped him through the most difficult days. Today, Kirk is back in the horse business.

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Sue Leep
Sue Leep

Thankful for Hope

Reno-based trainer Sue Leep received a devastating stage 3 lung cancer diagnosis. A grant from EAF helped her afford rent, food, and transportation while undergoing treatment in Phoenix. Her recovery was transformed by financial support.

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