One of our Horses Empower Heroes program graduates and U.S. Army Military Police Veteran, Michael, who lives with PTSD and severe post-combat stress, shared “I am very broken … I am so filled with shame; I tried to take my life. This place [Small Miracles] helped me to want to seek treatment; I knew if I went to the VA for help, I could come out to the horse program.” Michael and therapy horse, Lakota, “chose each other” and instantly bonded. “She rested her head on my shoulder and took my pain away.” He asked about Lakota’s story. I shared that when Lakota was born, she was “tagged” for destruction, fortunately, she was rescued. “See, I knew we understood each other, neither one of us was supposed to live.” Michael went on to share more about his combat experience and his job responsibilities as M. P. that required him to train the Iraqi police, though he was only 18. On March 22nd, 2005, his unit was driving through a rural town outside of Bagdad, when an IED deployed. He lost 5 of his buddies that day and Michael was shot in his left thigh — he will never forget that day. When Michael recovered, he rejoined his unit and went back into the field. “You can say nothing to your horse, you can say everything to your horse; they are listening,” Michael said with tears in his eyes. Michael successfully completed his treatment program at the VA and secured housing close to Small Miracles. Michael continues to consider Lakota his therapist — giving him peace and healing his war torn heart. 

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