05/08/2023
It seems fitting on this stormy night to tell about Jaxx and give an update. Friday, March 31st I had just made it home from helping Kim put horses away in preparation for the storm. We were watching the updates of tornado damage and feeling sick for folks not far from us. I got a call from a rattled Shelby Swift. A friend family's horse had been hurt in the storm and needed first aid. Could she get her trailer and bring him to the barn? No hesitation.. absolutely. I was not prepared. When Jaxx got off the trailer, I panicked internally. The thoughts ranged from aching for this stout fellow and his family to an extreme doubt that we were capable. Jaxx had multiple lacerations and deep punctures across his body. The worst was a huge, gaping hole on his hip. One eye was swollen shut and he looked like he swam through mud - but he was upright. We rinsed him, flushed his eyes, and made him as comfortable as possible. Dr. Erin Huck came the next day and sutured what she could, gave us directions and medications. His first week was crazy. The swelling and drainage were awful but he was a trooper. He had edema from the damage that made it hard for him to urinate. The day he pooped and trickled urine, I literally did a happy dance. Jaxx has continued to improve quickly and amazes us. Jaxx's family lost almost everything in the tornado including his beloved pasture mate Lacy. He is my hero because he has never missed a beat. He reminds me that if we can make it through the storm and keep a good attitude, we can accomplish almost anything. Thanks to his family for letting us take care of him. He is truly a blessing. Words cannot express how much admiration I have for Dr. Huck. Her attention and care were top notch. I am attaching photos in his own album - viewer discretion - they can be challenging. Bren Koehler