In Honor of Patches Horsey

Patches was a beautiful and gentle lady...whose greatest pleasure in life was entertaining and educating children all over Augusta. Her owners loved to take Patches and her brothers and sisters all over to visit with families in their own neighborhoods...many of whom would rarely, if ever, get to be up close and personal with such a large and powerful, yet still loving and friendly, creation of God.

This past weekend 9 year old Patches and her horse sibling Buck were visiting with the children of Dogwood Terrace in Augusta Ga., when a carload of suspected gang members opened fire on the families that had gathered to pet and play with those magnificent animals.

As we in Augusta know all too well...a beautiful 8 year old angel name Arbrie Anthony was struck by one of those bullets, and she died trying to escape the gunfire, attempting to run to the protective arms of her Daddy.

Our neighbors have really come together to assist Arbrie's family and loved ones...collecting significant donations to assist with their needs at this tragic time. I am so very proud of our community for stepping up in such an inspirational way.

What I did not know until yesterday...was that we also lost Patches.

Her owner was in the saddle when the multiple gunshots rang out, and though she was spooked by the noise, he was so proud that she and Buck quickly and gently responded to their owner's commands without panic, and avoided what could have been a compounded tragedy had they lost control.

When Patches and Buck returned to their paddock that night...they went quietly, and without fuss. No sign of trouble or distress. Several hours later, Patches' owner, Jakari Thornton, found her laid out in her pasture...she had indeed been struck that night...and died from the gunshot wound to her flank.

I am starting this account with the hopes that Patches' grieving owner can cover the expenses that came with the loss and burial of his dear equine friend, and he told me just a few minutes ago that despite what happened this weekend...he and Buck...and the rest of his family...will continue to visit local children all over Augusta so they can experience the face, feel, and affection of these amazing animals. We also hope this fund helps them adopt a replacement for Patches...so that the gentleness of her spirit will not be taken from us...just passed down for new generations to enjoy.