Ever After Equine will provide no cost equine experience to siblings of children with chronic health disorders. .The emphasis behind this program is to allow the space for the "other" children to cope, build confidence, and reduce stress through horses. During this four year time period the family was back and forth from Mayo, Marshfield, and Madison as there were no specialist in the Upper Penins
ula. The family was in crisis mode and lost 4 years of their lives worrying about the unknown. After a transplant her brother's disorder went into remission but the family was left with anxiety not knowing the future and how to cope with a "normal" life. Ashleigh was fortune that her parents were able to purchase a horse for her and the connection was magically. Zips Cinderfella became her best friend and therapist. He taught her so many life lessons and most importantly how to cope. There is something about being near a horse that just calms the soul. Ashleigh went on to pursue a degree in counseling with Fella by her side, in hopes to help others cope with the stressors of life. While in Texas Fergie, a beautiful and kind mare, joined the team. Once Ashleigh graduated her dream of Ever After Equine finally seemed like a reality but in October of the year Fergie lost her battle with a neurological condition and then in March Fella passed away in colic surgery. There are no words to say how devastated Ashleigh felt and the dream was placed on hold. Five years later, it is time to fulfill this dream and help others! Ever After Equine @ Carlson's Quarters will provide a safe space for children to deal with their emotions and have a session that is centered around having fun! In addition Ever After Equine will host a summer camp to so children with similar experiences can connect. There will be no cost to the families. Ever After Equine will be managed by Ashleigh Carlson who holds a BA in Psychology and an MS in Mental Health Counseling. Ashleigh has over 30 years of equine experience and is an expert on working with children. At this time Ever After Equine plans on serving families in the surrounding counties and eventually will provide outreach to the local hospitals to serve families that have children that are being treated in Madison.
