Saroukh Update 2010

It is almost two years ago now that Saroukh once again proved his character by surviving a dreadful infection; one that no horse to date has ever been recorded surviving. He spent a very long time in intensive care at our amazing equine clinic here in the Santa Ynez Valley. This clinic is called Alamo Pintado Equine Center; it is where some of the most wonderful and talented Veterinarians in the world happen to work. Saroukh’s survival speaks to his incredible character, his will to live and enjoy life. I see this as one of those life lessons that humans need to take note of and apply to their own lives. I have always had a special bond with Saroukh and while he was recovering I went daily to spend time with him. Henry joined me many days; we would marvel at how strong he was in spite of suffering so much trauma. Saroukh looked as if he was going through a terrible trial, yet you only had to look into his eyes to know he was determined to be here! Henry did some skiing on the end of the line when we took him for short walks at the clinic once he began to feel more himself. His personal Vet was Dr. Erin Byrne, an internal medicine specialist. She not only figured out how to help him but knew him so well she could walk into his stall and know just how he was feeling by exactly how he held his nostrils. The wrinkling of them displayed pain. Erin, all by herself would manage many of his tests because he was so patient and willing to cooperate. To us humans it seemed as if he knew we were trying to help him. Saroukh spent weeks going in and out of the hyperbaric chamber which probably saved his life. Alfredo, one of the staff members who over saw this aspect of his recovery would always say to me, “He is such a good boy”. I would stand on the platform outside the chamber and he would look at me through the little portal window that was not much bigger than his eye and I could tell it helped him. Henry and I are so thankful to still have him here with us, gracing the barn, celebrating every time a mare enters the barn (he is rather talkative) and still amusing us with his antics.