Meet One of Our Unsung Heroes – And Why He Needs You Now

This is Macaroni — one of our most trusted lesson horses, the kind soul who carried dozens of beginners through their first ride, their first fall, their first triumph. For many of you, he was your first partner in the saddle.

A few years ago, we got heartbreaking news: cancer. After three vet consultations and months of treatment, we learned that it had already spread. He’s now in the final chapter of his life, and we’re doing everything we can to make sure it’s a peaceful, pain-free one — filled with love and dignity.

We had a choice when we found out: sell him off, or stand by him. We chose to stand by him.

Not because it’s easy — with rising costs of feed, care, and meds, it’s anything but — but because these horses give us everything. They deserve that same loyalty in return.

So we’re asking — if Mac, or any of the horses at Banshee Ranch, ever gave you a memory, a moment of courage, or a reason to smile — please help us return the favor.

Your support will go directly toward Mac’s ongoing medications, comfort care, and eventual burial — as well as helping us recover from the substantial medical debt the ranch has quietly shouldered to give him the best possible chance.

This is not easy for me to write. We’ve never asked for financial help — not once — not for the ranch, and not for ourselves.

Over the years, we’ve supported countless fundraisers — for local rescues, youth programs, even other barns in need — but we’ve never reached out to ask for anything that directly benefited us. When emotional decisions came with financial costs, I’ve always just carried the burden myself.

But this time... I’m swallowing my pride to ask — because Mac is worth it. He's not just a horse — he's part of the heart of this ranch. And for many of you, he’s part of your story, too.