Horse Power Hero

Dear Shiree and Barbara,
 
In the Spring of 2010 I learned from my Drs. at the University of Pennsylvania that I had Myelofibrosis (a terminal blood cancer). The only potential cure was a Bone Marrow Transplant. Since no family members were a match, they began the search in the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. After a number of months they found an "unrelated donor" who was a perfect match.
 
During that waiting period I researched on line and found "Horse Power For Life". I am a life long horse lover, with sporadic experience. I was so thrilled to find a program to help me with this long wait, incorporating something I love. When I first spoke with you Shiree, you explained the program and the extremely reasonable fees. I set up an appointment with Barbara, the trainer.
 
Barbara, you taught me "ground work" (grooming, tack, etc.), how a horse thinks, body language, and riding skills. I loved it all. It's difficult to describe what "Horse Power" did for me during those months of waiting for the Transplant. Each time I rode I was able to totally escape being a "patient". I was one with the horse in spirit and body, and felt alive.
 
Even during my month long hospital stay, I had 8x10 photos of myself riding, on the walls of my room. I wore my "Horse Power" T-shirt for good luck. It gave my mind a place to escape, and a future to look forward to.
 
Unfortunately my first Bone Marrow Transplant was unsuccessful. After careful research we selected the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance to do a second Bone Marrow Transplant. Although it has been such a tremendous strain both financially and being far from my family, the excellent care I have received here matches their great reputation. Unfortunately I had many complications and was hospitalized for seven weeks. We are now awaiting test results to indicate whether the transplant was a success or not. Even though obviously I'm not currently riding, it's still gives me a peaceful place to go in my mind.
 
I am hopeful that I will be able to healthy and strong enough to resume my riding. I also look forward to a day when I can work with the program to share with other cancer patients the healing power of horses.
 
With love and gratitude,
 
JoAnn

A fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, February 25th to raise money to help the family with JoAnn’s medical bills. Information regarding the event is below. If you are interested in helping, please visit JoAnn’s website at  http://www.thejoannweinbergfund.com

Cocktail Party and Silent Auction
to benefit
The JoAnn Weinberg Fund
Saturday, February 25, 2012
7:00pm

The Club at Shannondell
2750 Egypt Road
Audubon, PA 19403
http://www.thejoannweinbergfund.com