Help Gaylie Attend Life-Changing Equine Therapy Workshop

Hello, we are The Friends of Gaylie, and we are organizing this fundraiser on behalf of an extraordinary woman, Gaylie Walker. Gaylie is a warrior, survivor, a mentor, and a passionate advocate for healing. She has the opportunity to attend a transformational workshop led by Dr. Rebecca Bailey, Jaycee Dugard, and Margie McDonald—a five-day program focused on trauma recovery through equine-assisted therapy and Polyvagal principles.

Gaylie’s story is one of resilience. As a child, she was kidnapped and held for ransom for 24 days. This harrowing experience shaped her life in ways she is still uncovering, yet she has dedicated herself to helping others navigate their own healing journeys. Through coaching, speaking, and community support, she has turned her pain into purpose. This workshop is a vital opportunity for her to deepen her healing and expand her ability to support trauma survivors.

Why This Workshop Matters:

Dr. Rebecca Bailey is a renowned expert in trauma recovery, known for her compassionate and innovative approach. She has worked extensively with survivors of extreme trauma, including Jaycee Dugard, whose journey of resilience deeply resonates with Gaylie. Both Jaycee and Gaylie endured unimaginable circumstances, yet they have emerged with a commitment to helping others heal.

Gaylie has been coaching for over a decade, working with women, military spouses, and trauma survivors. This training will allow her to integrate equine-assisted therapy principles into her work, creating more meaningful and transformative experiences for those she mentors and supports.

How Equine Therapy Can Help:

Gaylie has always loved horses. She often jokes with her husband that he should buy her one! Horses possess an extraordinary ability to mirror human emotions, offering a unique and powerful way to explore trauma responses and emotional regulation. This workshop will provide hands-on experience in applying Polyvagal principles to equine interactions, fostering healing through nervous system awareness, nonverbal communication, and the profound connection between humans and animals.

How You Can Help:

Your contribution will help cover the costs of:

Workshop tuition, materials, and pre-recorded coursework.

Travel and accommodations for the five-day in-person training May 15 - 19, 2025.

Daily expenses during the program.

Every donation, big or small, brings Gaylie closer to this invaluable opportunity. If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing this campaign with your network would mean the world to us.

The Impact of Your Support:

By helping Gaylie attend this workshop, you are not just funding an educational experience—you are investing in a mission of healing, resilience, and empowerment. The knowledge and skills she gains will not only aid in her personal journey but will also be shared with others through her coaching, speaking engagements, and advocacy for trauma survivors.

Thank you for taking the time to read Gaylie’s story and consider supporting this journey. Your generosity and kindness make a difference, and we are deeply grateful.

With gratitude,

The Friends of Gaylie