A Museum. What a beautiful tribute.

####

Philly paper had the cremation article. was told to them from Mrs jackson. I am all for cremation, all my animals have been cremated. It is not disrepectful to do so, and done with dignity and respect for the animal and the owner. My daughter has visited a crematory here in Ohio and was HIGHLY impressed.

It is and was the Jackson's choice to make, and more "popular" in todays world than what it was even 10 or 20 yrs ago.

JMHO...

Alex, it's bitter cold here where I am. Sub-zero temps with wind chill right now. But wait....I take that back....it's supposed to get to, like, 14 today. Break out the shorts and sandals.

I'll make a deal with you. Dawn in Omaha, Linda R in Bellevue, and me.....we'll keep the cold, bitter temperatures here if you keep the site open. We have far, far too much to do here.

Deal?

Alex....please lets continue this site in the name of Barbaro. We have much work to do in the upcoming weeks and we cannot lose this place!

I'm sorry for Kathy Anderson, and you, and all who actually got to meet the Great Champ. I can only imagine...and I who never met him still cannot put my contacts in today for all the crying!

My father called me this morning to check on how I am doing. He has rolled his eyes at me for the last 8 months during this journey. And today I felt him doing it through the phone too. I guess it was nice of him to call, but when he said "well, you just have to get on with things" in a hollow sort of way it was not comforting in the least. It's so great to have all of you guys here who understand. I just don't think I could get through this without all of the FOBs here.

Good Morning, All,

I think a Barbaro Museum would be a wonderful tribute to our hero. I would surely travel there to visit.

Take care all FOBs. Remember that we are not alone - we have each other to help us through this sad time.

Love,
Sue and Walter
xoxox

Please, please, Please, let us follow the Jackson's lead. In loving memory of Barbaro, let's get this amendment passed and end horse slaughter in America.

Please contact your Senators and Representative and make your voices heard!

Barbaro, always in my heart.

KATHIE: I echoed much of the same feelings yesterday, in a very long post, that you have today. That's why it has shaken me to the core. (My post was under Update 192, for Jan. 30, Timestamp: 6:25 pm).

My whole time on this site I spoke affirmations of healing and health for him. Never wavering. Never doubtful.

But as I mentioned in my post yesterday, I had had a dream, right after the Preakness, that he would be euthanized. A dream which I told no one. A dream which I knew, could not come true.

So, my only answer to you, which is how I answered it to myself, in yesterday's post, was that despite our prayers and affirmations, Barbaro's fate had already been sealed. The universe...God...whatever...had already ordered it. "So let it be written. So let it be done".

Of course, this explanation elicits other, more troubling questions...about prayer...about God...things we cannot hope to answer. Not even the best theological minds can answer them. For whatever reason, what happened, was meant to happen, and no amount of praying was able to alter the course of events.

Like you, I'm really not wanting to feel better. I'm wanting answers, which will never come.

please keep this site going alex, i love reading about fair hill doings and there are many barbaro inspired projects to be reported on
you have been alifeline for those who cared about barbaro so i want to thank you for that from the bottom of my heart
karen

I remember last summer I gave you guys a bit of a chuckle when I likened our "condition" to that of the charature that Richard Dreyfuss plays in "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" Our families starring at us in disbelief as we carve images of Barbaro out of mashed potatoes...LOL. Being inexplicably drawn to something and have absolutley no idea how we came to be here, and everyone else around us thinks we are coo-coo.

Someone stated earlier this week that after months of wondering about this same thing, they just decided to relax and just go with it. Same with me. I cant explain it. I'm here and thats it.

Which brings me to an important point about something that happen to me in my grieving sessions yesterday evening. Like all of you, I am experiencing deep deep emotional pain. After watching Larry King, I was still extremely distraught. I was alone last night as my husband was at work. In my grief, I said to myself, "OKAY THAT'S IT....I'M DONE!! I just want to go back to my normal life ...they way I was before I even knew Barbaro!. I am walking away from this..I just want to forget about all of this! Why did this happen to me??! WHY!!! Where is the lesson here? I am going to just fade away back to where I belong".

WOW huh? That's me up there saying those things. I am a Barbaro Ambassador for the state of MN no less....Fortunantly I snapped myself back into reality and realized immediatley how selfish and immature this was..but the feelings cant be denied. I had to let myself work through them.

If any of you are feeling this way, I guess I would say, let yourself go for a while and then try to slowly take a moment, step back, and really think about how your life has changed by this and where you want to take yourself.

I have decided to fly on Bobby's angel wings and get back into the game right along with you.
This story is FAR from over folks. Lets enjoy it together.

Leslie in MN

Hi Guys......
Tribute To Barbaro
Champion of Hope

First Saturday in May, a charge fills the air,
In Kentucky they gather, a most splendid affair.
The Run for the Roses, mere hours away,
As twenty colts vie to be champion this day.

Some colts seem anxious, aware of the task,
Some balk and some bray, while some seem to bask.
But asleep in his paddock, a champion sublime,
The unconcerned Barbaro, enjoys some peacetime.

As post time draws near, and the horses are saddled,
The once sleeping Barbaro, appears to be rattled.
He starts to act up, his groom works to console,
In a moment the horse is brought under control.

The Post Parade finished, they load at the gate,
The unbeaten Barbaro wears number eight.
With seven to left, and eleven to right,
The start gates crash open, twenty youngsters take flight.

The front stretch is blazed in the blink of an eye,
One-hundred thousand faithful watch them rush by.
The field rounds the turn, down the backstretch they bound,
Halfway to the roses, halfway to the Crown!

Five furlongs cleared, and the noise starts to churn,
Moving faster and faster into the far turn.
The crowd starts to rise like a wave on the sea,
Which colt will move up, which one will it be?

Around the last turn and they charge into sight,
One horse pulls ahead, and seems up to the fight.
A thundering bay is now leading the field,
Digging in like a steam shovel, a champion revealed!

His rider has no need to go to the whip,
This magical colt has run his perfect trip.
The others are fading, as if they all know,
Today there's no way they can catch Barbaro!

The bay locomotive explodes to the line,
The next best has slipped seven full lengths behind!
A deafening roar now erupts from the fans,
Who all sense the magic they've watched from the stands.

A Derby performance unseen sixty years,
Has rekindled dreams that bring many to tears.
Twenty-eight years since the crown has been worn,
Twenty-eight years of dreams tattered and torn.

Nineteen brave contenders have given their all,
And nineteen contenders have taken a fall,
But now there is one for whom destiny waits,
In a blanket of roses, it's Barbaro the Great!

For weeks people speak of him breaking the drought,
His romp to the roses leaves little to doubt.
The shadow of Slew, of Big Red and Affirmed,
Will finally give way to perfection confirmed.

The Pimilico track is awash in the glow,
In the paddock sits larger-than-life Barbaro.
The undercard races tick down like a clock,
As the Preakness approaches the faithful take stock.

He's led from the paddock and joins the parade,
As thousands anticipate history made.
The gates are all loaded and all that remains,
Is a mile and sixteenth, and a seventh field tamed.

With millions now watching, a cruel twist of fate,
A single bay colt breaks alone from the gate.
An audible gasp echoes over the track,
As his rider fights hard just to hold the horse back.

To the amazement of all, the fortunes have changed,
For the great Champion Barbaro, and his fate prearranged.
He's led back around, and again loads the gate,
Can this champion regroup from a tragic mistake?

The gates are flung opened, they bolt down the track,
Barbaro breaks cleanly, and he's running mid-pack!
There's hope after all for this champion renowned,
To reel them all in before shutting them down!

But another groan rings out, with cries of despair,
Barbaro has pulled up, and dread fills the air.
With his right hind leg shattered, he struggles to run,
The pack draws away quickly, the dream is undone.

Six races finished, and six races won,
His only defeat, in a race never run.
But now a new challenge, a new field of strife,
Confronts this bold champion: a race for his life.

With the prayers of the faithful, and the odds stacked against,
His crestfallen owners spare no expense.
For his chance to survive this disastrous blow,
The New Bolton doctors do all that they know.

For eight months he battles through every travail,
As millions hold hope that he'll somehow prevail.
This horse with no rival upon the racetrack,
Continues to carry such hope on his back!

But every great champion faces the day,
When no more contenders stand in their way.
When no more mountains, exist for to move,
When finally, at last, there is nothing to prove.

With all of his races on earth finally done,
This bold, gallant hero continues to run.
With Big Red, Slew and Affirmed by his side,
His legacy: Hope! Barbaro did provide.

I Love you Barbaro........ Dr. Richardson and Alex thank you for doing all you have done to provide the best for all of us. Alex you rock and Dr. Richardson you are awesom...... You tried harder than humanely capable to save our beautiful colt. You KNEW it was time and I thank you for listening to Barbaro.... I only wish that he had been listened to the day of the Preakness........

God Bless you all.................

Morning different type of skritches to the Big Boss Horse of Forever.

####
FsOB:
Hard as it is, this is the perfect opportunity to make our push. If Mrs. Jackson has the presence of mind and composure to open this door, we owe it to her and her horse to follow her lead.

I'm reposting ShelleyA, Debra, WI from this morning. Look what they got for us!!!

THIS JUST IN....A STATEMENT SENT TO US FROM SENATOR LANDRIEU...

Debra,
Here is a statement from Senator Landrieu -

"Barbaro was an inspiration not only to equestrians and horse lovers, but to all Americans. I hope that his memory will serve as added motivation in our continued fight for the safety and welfare of horses,and his legacy will serve as an inspiration to get the Virgie S. Arden
American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act passed through Congress."

Senator Landrieu
----------------------------------------

For those of you who watched Larry King, you saw that even through the grief of her loss, Gretchen Jackson made a valiant effort to make the public aware of the horse slaughter issue in this country. If she can do it, so can we! The publicity we received tonight from Mrs. Jackson and Bo Derick is invaluable. We must "strike while the iron is hot". Mrs. Jackson did that and she has asked us to do the same.

While I know we are all overwhelmed by our loss, this is the time to make our voices heard. Millions of people heard about the horrors of horse slaughter on Larry King tonight and we cannot let this opportunity get away from us.

In Barbaro's honor, please contact your representatives and urge them to join us. This is also the time to contact everyone you know and ask them to do the same. Everyone has been following this story for two days and we now have the attention of the entire country!!

PLEASE, we know how hard it is to rally but we would be wrong not to seize the moment. Barbaro would expect no less of us. Let's not fail him.

Shelley and Debra

Posted by: Debra, WI at January 31, 2007 3:01 PM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

A museum!!!! Way to go! What a wonderful idea. Would love to be a part of something like this. Even some hands on with working on it.

Everyone,
There is a video called Barbaro:Farewell on the same site as that mentioned by Alex earlier this morning. Will try to post the URL but I am not too good with things like this so give it a try yourselves. You will need a box of kleenex, but I believe it is outstanding and beautiful. Best to all.

Alex I think everyone is in agreement we would love this site to continue. We have lots to do to make the world a better place for our horses.

To me that is Barbaro's legacy.

Anything I can do to help with the site, I am willing. Financial support whatever.

Agree 100% with Lor in PA's post: "Please, please, please, let us follow the Jackson's lead. In loving memory of Barbaro, let's get this amendment passed and end horse slaughter in America.

Please contact your Senators and Representative and make your voices heard!

###
Sheila,
While your dad's comments to "get on with things" may not have felt comforting to you, try to listen to the feelings in his heart that are behind those words. He called you because he is worried about you and he does not want to see you unhappy. I think that is just the sweetest thing. For those of us who's daddies are in Heaven, please thank yours for caring.
And yes, please know that we are all here to support you -- and each other -- through this difficult time. Pain shared is less than pain borne alone.
Hugs to all who are Missing Barbaro.

FOBs--As stated below, I generally don't waste my time on things of this nature, but after reading the LA Times editorial by TJ Simers, I'd pretty much had enough. It's a long letter for someone that I'm sure has a short attention span, but it will be forwarded to him as well as the editor of the LA Times--for what it's worth. . .

Mr. Simers:

I generally wouldn’t waste my time writing a response to a throw-away sports column, but I found your January 30th piece “Grieving for Barbaro. . .” to be so crass and tasteless, and most importantly, such an insult to the fine people closest to Barbaro, that I felt compelled to respond. After reading your bio, I have to wonder why a columnist with your background would choose to write to an audience of the lowest common denominator. The mouth-breathing dregs of society who live for any chance to ridicule, harass, humiliate and abuse anyone with compassion and humanity, that sit in their parent’s basements waiting for this type of swill to feed on.

Was Barbaro courageous? He was a damn exceptional horse, but it’s impossible to assign so-called “human” emotions to an animal. However, when you checked out “courage” in the dictionary, a picture of Barbaro’s trainer, Michael Matz, should have been there. This is a man who put his own life at risk pulling three children from the burning jetliner that crashed in Sioux City, IA in 1989 that killed 112 people. If ever a guy “deserved” the joy of winning the Kentucky Derby, let alone the Triple Crown, it was Michael Matz. Who among us wouldn’t want the best horse he’ll ever race to pull through?

You could’ve seen Edgar Prado’s photo next to “courageous” when you looked it up. One of the most respected jockeys in the sport, he could’ve saved his own neck and bailed off the second he heard the leg snap and just let Barbaro run himself to death and maybe take a few other horses and riders with him. Instead, he stayed on, slowed the horse and literally held him up on the track. Who wouldn’t want to see the best horse he’ll ever race pull through?

As for Barbaro alive being “worth a lot of money in the breeding shed”, he was worth $20 million bucks in insurance money if they’d put him down on the track and walked away. Instead, the Jacksons wanted the best horse they’d ever raced to pull through.

You spent a couple of minutes cutting and pasting a few posts from a message board in an effort to make all of us that cared about Barbaro look like a bunch of “desperate housewives” anthropomorphizing this animal. I’m a woman who knows horses and horse racing—won the $587 exacta in the Derby thanks to Barbaro and Bluegrass Cat. Since you asked, here are two horses that died in the last year: Lost in the Fog—one of the best sprinters of all time, and Pine Island— a filly nominated for an Eclipse award that broke down in the Breeder’s Cup.

Want more? I can start naming every horse that broke down at Arlington this year, but instead, I’ll just segue-way to the fact that thousands of Fans of Barbaro have now been made aware of the dangers of dirt tracks, and in part as a result of his accident, poly and Tapeta tracks are being installed at facilities around the country. People who never realized horses were slaughtered in this country before they heard of Barbaro are now working for the passage of HR503 and S311—the anti-slaughter bills. $1.2 million at last count has been raised for the U of Penn’s New Bolton Center and Laminitis Research Fund and a veterinary scholarship has been established in Barbaro’s name at the U of Florida. Thousands of dollars have been donated to horse rescues and humane societies around the country by the Fans of Barbaro, not to mention donations to a 6 year old child battling brain cancer and to Mike Rea—a horse trainer who suffered a severe brain injury last spring.

But come on, it’s just a HORSE—right TJ? In your sophomoric attempt to upset fans by comparing Barbaro to road kill, you completely missed the point of why this animal was and still is important. Long after the bottom-feeders who delight in mocking compassion have moved on to their next “victim”, those of us who cared about a racehorse named Barbaro will still be working for positive change. It’s called The Barbaro Effect.

Leslie-
Hold still so I can pinch you really hard! Stand still I say! Girl, you need to get a real southern style smackdown on your heiney! You are way too important and viable helpful person to even threaten to quit on us now! Do not make me come up there and get you...I will. I do not have any MN type clothes, but I can find some! I am shaking you now, like a lil ragdoll;'-'/.,%^$@&*&*)_ those are what shaking looks like-LOL So are we okay now, Ms. Ambassador? Do not make me have to threaten you again, MS. Prissy pants! :0)

Renee, I know his whole body would be cremated, but there is something about the whole cremation process that freaks me out. Just my feeling!

Ruth Stacey:
Go to 12:13pm post by Mary from Update 193

I'm torn between wanting to share my sadness and wanting to honor the Jackson's wish to stay positive.

So I'll try to keep my mouth shut about my own pain and say that I'm happy they are thinking of keeping Barbaro in their area.

Although it's none of my business, I thought about it a lot yesterday.

It occurred to me that Barbaro was more a story about love than a story about winning. Even winning for him seemed to be an act of love. Love for running, love for his connections, love for the joy of competition - all of it.

I'd be thrilled if they erected a statue in his honor at Churchill Downs, but buried his ashes in the place he was most loved by those who knew him - on the days he was winning, and on the days he wasn't.

Alex, I was so grateful for this site when Barbaro was still alive. I'm even more grateful for it now.

When Barbaro was having a good day, It didn't matter so much if I wasn't. I miss him profoundly
(sorry Mr. & Mrs. J, I just had to say that)

Dadgummit, Nina. Now I AM about to bawl with that one. He was a special colt, no doubt. Blessings to all from the Gates of Eden.

Spirit Horse,
I enjoy your posts and I understand them.Only God knows why he took him and we have to live knowing that.At least he was saved from horrible suffering.
I had always had feeling different from yours that he would make it. Sunday and Monday were different, I sat here at work at my desk and had a horrible feeling Monday in my chest and I got blurry about the time Barbaro was put down. I had an idea at the time what it was, I do know now what the feeling was. Thank you for your posts. My Native American ancestory takes over quite a bit.

###
Renee ... Did you see this post: Ruth

Philly paper had the cremation article. was told to them from Mrs jackson. I am all for cremation, all my animals have been cremated. It is not disrepectful to do so, and done with dignity and respect for the animal and the owner. My daughter has visited a crematory here in Ohio and was HIGHLY impressed.

It is and was the Jackson's choice to make, and more "popular" in todays world than what it was even 10 or 20 yrs ago.

JMHO...

Posted by: Mary L Ohio at January 31, 2007 3:58 PM

I just came from the candle site (gratefulness.org)

Barbaros candles are very low, many short ones that look like they will go out soon.

Foggys candels are very low, he is down to 130

Candels for Mary S are few

I'm not ready yet to let their candles go out.
Perhaps there are others of you who feel the same way.

##

Dawn, all I can say is "Wow". Very powerful.

Good morning everyone--

I was thinking, when I read an article about Mr. Matz and that he had "Go Barbaro" bumper stickers on a couple of vehicles---

How about if we make a bumper sticker that says,

"BE LIKE BARBARO"

????? How cool would that be? Proceeds to go to laminitis of course???

LOL

OK Dora!! That must have been you shaking me back to reality last night!!!

OOUWWEEE!! Dang IT! Geeze! You aint no Chipper Nipper! LOL

:)

For All Of Us who Love Barbaro
I dedicate this story.

Barbaro was having another bad day, he hadn’t slept well. Even with the pain medicine he still hurt. His legs hurt, all of them, his back hooves hurt. He hurt all over and he was tired. He loved all the people here at NBC, especially Dr Richardson, but he was tired of these four walls, he wanted to go outside and feel the warm sun again. He loved his mom more than anyone, she knew him better than anyone, and bless her heart, she always had the blue tote with the fresh Lael grass. Lately, he didn’t even much feel like eating, but he did to please her, He always tried to put on a show of feeling good for mom, even trying to nip her occasionally to make her smile. He loved to see mom smile.
But still, the truth was he hurt and he wanted Dr Richardson to make him well, once and for all.

When Dr Richardson came that morning, he had his “procedure” face on. Here we go again, Barbaro thought. Another surgery, I’ll wake up in the swimming pool. I sure hope Dr R has the cure for me this time.

When Barbaro started waking up, he felt something tickling his nose and when he tried to open his eyes there was a light so bright it almost blinded him. The light felt wonderful, it was so warm, and it was hard to describe, the light felt like love. It surrounded him and felt so good, like all the hugs his mom had ever given him. When his eyes adjusted to the light more things became aware to Barbaro.

He wasn’t in a pool ,he was in a field of clover and buttercups and the tickle on his nose was a butterfly!He also noticed he felt no pain, his crooked legs were straight again ,his hooves were well ! Dr R had done it, he remembered now the last thing DrR had said….Barbaro when you wake up you’ll be good as new!
The Light he felt, he now knew was GOD himself, the Creator of all life.

God himself welcomed him to Rainbow Bridge. He explained to Barbaro it is here that all animals wait for their human keepers
So they can cross the bridge to Heaven together.

Barbaro had never seen so many horses, dogs, cats, animals and birds of every kind, large and small. Everyone got along, no one was sick and all made him feel loved and at home.

A couple of the horse who greeted him were there by special permission from God, they had already crossed over the Bridge but wanted to welcome Barbaro. Barbaro knew of the legendary stores of Man O War, Seabiscuit and War Admiral, here they were to say hello. There were also a couple donkeys that came to greet him. One once carried pregnant Mary into Bethlehem, the other one had carried Jesus in to Jerusalem.

Barbaro was so happy to be here. He thought this has to be the greatest place in all the world . He spent the afternoon racing Secretariat to the fence and eating clover with Lost in the Fog. Yes, he was very busy his first day at the bridge, he even learned he could FLY!! He always knew he could run fast, now he’d become a horse angel and he could fly!! He could look down on Earth and see all the people who loved him. He could finally put names and faces together. All the FOB that had faithfully loved and prayed for him, sent him cards and letters , baskets of flowers, apples and carrots, pears and those green mints he loved.
He was happy but they all looked sad. He wanted to yell to them,
“Hay, it’s me, Barbaro,I’m well. Your prayers have been answered. Don’t be sad.”

Barbaro had had a long day. He thought it was time to go to sleep.But before he did he had one thing he had to do.

Hello Laurie H,
I know it’s been a long day, you look sad & tired. Why don’t we get your blanket.. Honey, tonight I’m going to cover you with my blanket, the sage cashmere one you gave me, it’s always been my favorite. Don’t be sad, Laurie, God made me well.
Tonight, We’ll pull the blanket high on your neck so you can feel my love for you. As you sleep the dream angel will come. Guess what, Laurie, it will be me! I’m your dream angel now. Sometimes when you’re just waking up, and you feel a tickle on your nose or a hair across your face,you’ll know I’ve been there to check on you. That tickle is my mane touching your face.
Shhh time to go to sleep. I’ll be here for you every night when you sleep.

XOXOxoxo Barbaro

That being taken care of Barbaro could finally lay down to sleep himself. He wanted to dream about the First Saturday in May,the day he and his pal Edgar had run the very best race. He could still remember Edgar’s hand on his mane, the smell of roses, his mom’s hug and he fell asleep hearing the song thousands sung that day…

Weep no more, my lady
Oh weep no more, today,
We sill sing one song for
My Old Kentucky Home
For My Old Kentucky Home
Far Away………………….

I love you Barbaro
Harriette Brillianthawk in Lexington

reposted from 1-29-07

To the Jacksons,Dr Richardson,staff at NBC,Alex & Tim and all of the fans of Barbaro, a Native American Prayer to always remember this beautiful animal's life:
IAM WITH YOU STILL
I give you this one thought to keep...
Iam with you still, I donot sleep..

Iam a thousand winds that blow.
Iam the diamond glints in the snow.
Iam the sunlight on ripened grain.
Iam the gentle autmn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush
Iam the swift uplifting rush of quiet
birds in circled flight.
Iam the soft stars that shine at night.

Donot think of me as gone...
Iam with you still in each new dawn.

Becky & the Meezers,

Point taken. I do appreciate his phone call but I know he doesn't really understand why I have been so caught up in this. However, you are right. He cared enough to check on me. Thanks for the reminder.

Nina,
You have to remember that everything was positive with Barbaro,until Sunday night. Dr. Richardson said he had a lot of good days. Don't look to the dark that is not there.

DAWN IN OMAHA: WOW! What great writing!! I hope they print it! Thank you! It stopped my tears for a moment.

Yes Ruth I saw that. I am glad it was posted. Phew. At least he is whole.

First of all, thank you to Alex for continuing to keep this open (i hope it's for a LONG, LONG time). I'm not going to go into how I feel (it's as bad as all of you guys) but I would like to relate a message that I got from my Congressperson (I'm from Florida). She said (and I'm paraphrasing a little) that while she "understands my concerns about horse slaughter" she has a duty to protect the rights of people engaging in a legal business. I was able to snap out of my grief long enough to get almost uncontrollably angry. She completely missed the point: IT SHOULDN'T BE A LEGAL BUSINESS!! Clearly, I have my work cut out for me. I'm going to try to transfer my heartbreak into a letter-writing campaign that the energizer bunny couldn't match!!

I'm doing this for myself, for all of the horses out there that need help, for Mrs. Jackson, for the other FOBS and, mainly to honor Barbaro.

My best to Alex, M/M Jackson, Dr. R. and all of you FOB's that have been so important to me without even realizing it.

We have all hear it said “Life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.”.

When I was a child, I had a toy called a viewfinder, it was like a tiny slideshow, you inserted a round disk into the viewer,clicked and another picture would appear..Think power point Circa 1950’s lol.. In my mind I have so many visual and word images brought forth by all of you and the one who unites us, Barbaro..

Barbaro eating buttercups on a lazy spring day
It’s all Barbaro in a sublime performance.
Edgar’s hand on a vein thickened neck
A blanket of roses
A warrior horse standing on three legs
Edgar’s hundred pounds bracing the weight of an 1100 pound horse
Dr ., please save this horse
Butterfly kisses on a velvet nose Dear Alex and FOB’s

Tears silently falling on thousand’s cheeks
A thespian turned veterinarian
A lady, mother, grandmother, wife, businesswoman, horsewoman, horse mom
Blue plastic tote with green grass
Lael colors of blue and green
The colors of Mother Earth
In the darkness and the light
A dancer poised on pointed toes
A veil of protection
Love and Light
All the fallen angels and their plight
Lost in the Fog , we remember with tears
Doctors speaking in a choked voice
People around the world praying on bended knees
Give us this day our daily bread
Pass the carrots and Praise the Lord
Prayers lifted on Angel’s wings
Remembered verses, Jesus Wept
Hoofray Across America and Why not this horse
All creatures’ great and small
Nimble lips picking treats from a stall ledge
Bouncing in a sling
Apples, red
Carrots with green tops
Green mints
Pears
Prayers
Nightly tuck-ins ever so sweet
Now I lay me down to sleep
Soft blanket caressing sick limbs
Wish on a star and the man in the moon
A fence line of posters
A florist delivery van
Our man on the scene, Alex Brown
Reiki masters and Navajo chants
Patron saints and candles glowing
Non-believers too, lighting candles
The first step, light from the darkness
Across the US and desert sands
Water from the Holy Land
No horse left behind
The River Thames, my sweet Baboo
In Jesus’ name for all time
God Bless Barbaro

GRIEF IS THE PRIC WE PAY FOR LOVE

repost from Jan 18

Dawn in Omaha

Bravo! Well said!

Hello,
I know some of us have been bothered by the theology involved with Barbaro's passing. I like to think that we all had a part in keeping him alive these past eight months, boistering his spirit and his body through the horrible July and giving him many more months of peace (as we all know, prayer has a masterful effect on mind and body) However, some time this month, it was decided by a higher power that he had to come home to heaven so that we might learn from him and, in his memory, fulfill our jobs on earth- at that point, our prayers and hopes gave him comfort as he departed. We were with him always and he knew it. Never doubt that he knows us all in spirit.
He cremation is just kind of scary because it seems so final- as if his body could have gotten up and walked again, which we all know is not the case. Barbaro does not live in that body/those remains anymore, so it is okay.
Ah, sigh. I'm at work and feeling pain. Whenever I see a picture or think of this site I feel pain.Be assured, this too will pass, and, like Ruffian, instead of feeling pain we will feel joy and inspiration at his photos.
Hang tough Barbaro Nation!

####

Dawn in Omaha--

STANDING OVATION. Bravo.

###
Leslie,

I actually went through those emotions Sunday when the last New Bolton update was posted. I had this really bad feeling what was coming next. I told myself I couldn't so this anymore. I have my own life to worry about. My own horse, dog, and cats to worry about. I was very angry too. Barbaro was fine just a few weeks earlier. How could this happen!

I didn't sleep at all Sunday night. Was late for work on Monday because of this sick feeling I had.

I have cried more the last couple of days than I have in years then last night I thought about my grandmother who died 2 weeks ago. She suffered for a very very long time before she died. Barbaro did not. We allow animals a dignity in death that humans many times don't get. That is our gift to them.

Now I am ready to fight and devote my time to fight the causes closest to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson because I owe it to them for giving Barbaro a peaceful and dignified death instead of the pain he would have gone through if kept alive.

Okay I am done. He are all in this together!

Miracle follows miracle, and wonders never cease.

Magnificent Steed!. We hold the vision of your wholeness and your balance - hind legs restored, perfect and complete - in vibrant good health.

The Light of God surrounds you
The Love of God enfolds you
The Power of God Protects you
The Presence of God watches over you
Wherever you are Barbaro, God IS.
Thank you God for the presence of Barbaro in my life.

Love, Light and Protection for Barbaro

Please light some candles for the awesome Spirit of The Fog

For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us…” Romans 8:38, 39

For the love of who you are
For the love of your spirit...

God Bless The Fog
I love you Fog

Love, Light and Protection for All The Bearers of The Light

prayers from Mary S and for Mary S
posted by Harriette for the Barbaro Nation

I remember when I put my first Irish Wolfhound down. And had decided on cremation. It was so hard that first time...but then my Vet told me, "It's just like walking into the sun." I can't tell you why, but this image has stayed with me all those years, through many hounds, many deaths and many cremations. Walking into the sun. I can see Barbaro doing this, outlined in brilliance, mane and (long) tail flaring in the solar wind....

I have come here every morning since I found the site days after the Preakness. Alex, we will all continue to come here, almost like gathering around a campfire. Holding out hands out to warm them and tell stories about this gallant colt and the people who loved him. He is safe now, surrounded by the Great Ones, the little ones--like the White Mare from the evil slaughterhouse--and all our racing greyhounds who came to Heaven from loving homes or careless owners....He is home now, we can only trust in that as we have trusted in each other...until we come home ourselves. Today I finally cried. I feel so for his loss on this earth, and for all who looked into his beautiful eyes and helped him through these months. I feel for Michael Matz and Peter and Edgar and Edwardo. The Jacksons: how they have shown us the way with their every step forward, always forward. What extraordinary people we have met on this Barbaro journey. And Alex, dear Alex, thank you and Tim's Fair Hill for giving all this emotion a home. We will go forward in Gretchen Jackson's steps, and the anti-slaughter bill WILL be passed this session of Congress in the name of Barbaro. Stay strong, stay focused. Keep reaching out to the world...

###

My last experience with cremation on a beloved Sheltie I had for 11 yrs before his hips went on him and he could no longer walk.. The place we choose for cremation is the best in Ohio. They contacted us when they received "Logan". Asked about his "life" and what he enjoyed doing. when I received Logan back in a beautiful wooden box, there was a great plaque on his box, quoting the words I told him. a card came with it, there was 1/2 heart with it. It said " We placed the other 1/2 of this heart with your beloved Logan as a token of his love and life he gave to you. May you find comfort in this and the Angel Ornament we also have sent with you. This angel symbolizes the Animal Angel that protects and guides our companions to the Rainbow Bridge..

They also place a memorial Marker in their special garden they have on the grounds. Each animal is awarded this honor and you are encouraged to visit and see it but they also send you a picture.

That was my great experience with cremation for my last dog.

## Dawn, I second Skyler's comment...wow...very powerful..I particularly liked the "bottom feeder" comment....no wonder the LA Times is in such trouble.

Anne at January: Trying to understand your feelings right now, however, it is not fair to put so much blame on horse racing and the track. Agreed the tracks need to be addressed, but we have human athletes on a daily basis who break legs from a variety of sports: football, soccer, basketball, hockey and the list goes on. Do we blame the surfaces? NO. Accidents happen, mishaps in horse racing happen. Children and adults break bones on a daily basis walking wrong, falling off a sidewalk or falling down - do we replace our streets??? NO. Barbaro's life ended due to the difficulties with LAMINITIS because horses are purely genetically unable to function without the use of 4 legs. Too much weight on ONE (or more) leg/s causes this dreaded disease - just the way it is and extensive research is being done on this. Barbaro SURVIVED his ordeal of a broken leg, extensively broken leg in 20+ places. His leg healed, he lived. Laminitis proved too much in the end. If he had not been uncomfortable in the left hind new cast, he might not have put so much weight onto his hind right leg causing that terrible abscess and bruising, then, with two hind legs hurting, he shifted his weight to his front legs - causing Laminitis once again on BOTH FRONT FEET. Horse racing did not CAUSE his death. Barbaro was bred, raised and ran like nothing I have ever seen. It was what he loved to do. Horse racing has been a sport centuries old - we enjoy what these magnificent horses were bred to do and treat them like royalty. Betting on horse racing is considered a hobby and sport - as is betting on car racing, football games, casinos, etc....well, I could go on, but Barbaro is not gone because of horse racing, Barbaro is gone because of a terrible disease which inflicts all horses - pet horses, work horses, all horses and not just racehorses......

I didn't really think it would be esier to deal with anytime soon and I can certainly say that it is not any easier today than on Monday.

I think of his last time on a race track - hobbling in horror - looking at those ahead of him probaly thinking that "if this didn't happen I'd be 4 - 5 lengths ahead of you by now."

I want to start thinking of the happier times in his life.

He was such a magnificent horse. Can someone please prove to me what would be impossible to prove - that there is an afterlife and Barbaro is there. It's too hard to deal wtih otherwise.

Thanks to Alex for this site. Don't know what I would have done without it. Hope it keeps going to honore Barbaro's legacy.

I think another great way to honor him is to donate to the UPenn Laminitis Reasearch Fund. Another lady on chat board suggested donating $29 per month to this fund (Barbaro was born on April 29 and passed over on January 29). I've made my donation this month, and urge everyone who can to do the same.

A cure must be found for laminitis. All the great surgeons in the world (and Dr. Richardson is one great surgeon)are pointless to heal horses who break their legs, unless a successful treatment or cure is found for laminitis. Please consider donating to the fund.

Love you Barbaro!! Will never forget you.

A Cat lover in Ohio who dearly misses Barbaro.

##

Harriette Brillianthawk, bless you.

I thought I was done crying. How beautiful your story is. I guess that's my cue to leave for awhile and go to lunch. I suddenly feel the need to drive to the barn and see my boy, make sure he's warm. Although he doesn't have nearly as great a blanket as the sage one Laurie gave to Barbaro.

What a gift your story is to all of us.

#### Skyler--thanks. I was in no mood to see a "journalist" perpetuating that kind of garbage. Barbaro and those who love him deserve better.

I'm with ya for keeping the cold here in Omaha if Alex will keep the site rolling on!

Thank you Harriette

prayers from Mary S and for Mary S
posted by Harriette for the Barbaro Nation

Julie L.

Good idea Julie! I would put it on my car.

Forgive me for posting my own comment again, but I still think this might be a good idea, and if nothing else I am going to get some made for my own personal use.

Good morning everyone--

I was thinking, when I read an article about Mr. Matz and that he had "Go Barbaro" bumper stickers on a couple of vehicles---

How about if we make a bumper sticker that says,

"BE LIKE BARBARO"

????? How cool would that be? Proceeds to go to laminitis of course???

Posted by: Julie L at January 31, 2007 4:19 PM

I am writing a letter to Michael Matz, here is what I have so far;

Dear Michael,

Please remember Barbaro as running free with all the great racehorses of the past, for that is surely what he is doing now. With four fast legs and a long flowing tail he is living in the next life pain free.

While he was here on earth, Barbaro had the most loving people around him, including you. He had the best life a horse could have, and if he can think back on his life now, he is saying "Thank you, Michael."

Thank you, Michael, for giving Barbaro his best chance to shine. I hope beyond hope that you get another that can take you to the Derby winner's circle and even farther.

I havet got farther than that yet.

Spirit Horse, aka Loretta--

I have gone through similar thought processes as in your post (timestamp 4:06) myself and come to the same conclusions. It's come up in my life before, but I wasn't really sure...until now.

It's the ages old controversy regarding pre-destination vs. free will. There is a way to reconcile these two--I think it's the Hindus who have something of a handle on it, but this is perhaps not the time or place to go into that.

It is as if a devastating earthquake has shaken your own foundation and left it in shambles.

E-mail me privately (by clicking on my signature's link) if you would like to continue the discussion, although I have no answers, just empathy for what you're going through. I'm there too.

Nancy in CA

Hi Loretta A. I read your post at 3:41 PM timestamp. I still can't sleep or really eat.
I called Kennett Florist this morning and talked to Rachel. I sent some chocolate to his ICU nurses on Monday from "The FOBs" with our sincerest thank you for everything. I read today that Dr.R has not been able to bring himself to go to the ICU yet and see his stall but those gals have to still look at it 24/7. Rachel said the outside of NBC has all kinds of tributes and it indeed does look kind of like Graceland. Elvis was a King also. Both he and Bobby are SUPERSTARS the likes of which don't come around very often.

I like to think of our boy as having transitioned to what awaits him next in the universe. Like the metamorphisis of a butterfly. He is now connected to all things everywhere, including us. We are lonely because we are still in our limited mortal shells.

I am a big Star Wars fan and I think of Yoda's quote:

"Luminous beings are we - not this crude matter."

Cremation would be best if the museum idea comes to be. Moving a horse's burial site can't be easy.

I love the idea of a Museum. A lot of notible horses are from the area. My father remembered as a boy he saw Man O War at Riddle's place in Delaware County Pennsylvania.

And the Jacksons are from Chester County, where New Bolton is, where Smarty Jones was born, where the great Danzig and Storm Cat were born too.

just to name a few!

I'm ALL for bumperstickers! Need one on my car real bad, the old one, Jingles for Barbaro, just hurts too much to see right now.
I'm off to write a little paper! Let's see if I can finish it in...22 minutes... before class!
:)
Hard to get work done with so much grief.

He deserved the HONOR of being buried WHOLE. No matter where he was buried. This is the first time I have openly questioned anything the Jacksons have done.

This was wrong. Even Head, Heart, Hooves would have been better than this.

Heartbroken and now despirately disappointed, too.
Glenda

Okkk, Day 2 and crying again. Nina's poem yes how maybe if he had been pulled back after that gate. The champion just wanting so bad to win and get his job done. We will never forget.

I keep thinking about the nonprofit foundation woven into the Barbaro fund at New Bolton which would tie with the museum. Another thing before ppl make tacky Barbaro things, Is to enure his name and any items can not be sold without the Jackson's approval. A thought would be some very classy T shirts, tanks for summer and long sleeved polos with a photo of our Prince Barbaro (he is so handsome after all) and maybe one side where he is air born in his victory. The Lael Stables and BARBARO. Funds going to the museum fund? A thought.

That tacky LA Times sports writer was at it again today. I think I may just cancel my times subscription.

Well with Barbaro and his loved ones in my heart it is back to work. Nina your poem was awesome.

Attention: Karen -TN

In reference to the recent post from Karen in TN
concerning the obnoxious Sports Talk Radio station 104.5 - The Zone, in Nashville this morning ridiculing Barbaro fans, etc...

I sent a complaint to the station as follows:

"I thought it was so disrespectful for your announcers, Wycek & the others, to ridicule the recent passing of a great horse racing Champion Barbaro. It's so unfortunate, for this type of ridicule to come from within a city that is surrounded by horse lovers. It is an embarrasment to Nashville. Show some class like they are doing in the quality Newspaper articles in this nation. Such as http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/16577370.htm I think you owe the public an apology.

I always thought Frank Wycek had some class... now I know differently. It's a shame that I had to learn of this on other boards across the nation, that are reporting the ridicule of a champion such as Barbaro was. Believe me, the nation hears of such verbiage coming across the air from your station."

We love you Barbaro!

Dawn -- what an incredible message. thank you so much for sending it.

for all of us who are having a brutal time with this, Jackie's message about the theology of Barbaro's passing is important. "why" is the worst question in the world -- it takes so much energy and we will never, ever be satisfied with the answer.

the question that will help us out of our grief is, "what are we going to do about it?" how do we live in the light of his incredible old soul.

I wonder if this is why the tormenters still show up with their spiteful and mocking words. they don't begin to have the guts to live with grief -- certainly not enough to be transformed by the beauty of a life they don't understand.

but that's why we keep coming back to this board. this is the hardest thing there is -- to move through grief, to let ourselves be changed by something we don't understand and cannot control -- and to let Barbaro's light shine through each of us.

this is the best work humans do. for all these months we've been saying, Believe in Miracles - Believe in Barbaro -- well, this is what it looks like to believe.

There are some GREAT photos of Barbaro on Sabina Pierces web site. Somebody mentioned it earlier the site is www.sabinalouisepierce.com. She was Barbaros photographer at New Bolton. I still cant believe that he is gone!!! I will really miss him! I am sure the folks at New Bolton are having a very hard time getting through this. They were with Barbaro every day. Its hard to believe that he was unable to recover. There will hopefully be a cure some day for lamenitis-what a terrible, terrible disease!

Thanks for the post Alex, a Museum what a great idea!

######
RENEE: I'm part Native American too -- part Cherokee. I think that's why my dreams are so accurate.

And despite my very early dream -- right after the Preakness -- that foretold he would be euthanized, I could not imagine him not making it. My conscious mind felt he would have to survive. Unfortunately, my subconscious knew the truth.

I hope a book is released with all of Barbaro's pictures in it. I would love that.

A must read essay/article in the Philadelphia Inquirer today -- it sounds like the author is a frequent visitor to this website.

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/16587484.htm

I was touched and deeply moved by the article and thank her for sharing her feelings with us.

Hi all,
I wrote a rather long post that I finally hit "send" on, and then Alex went and posted an update and it is sort of left hanging high and dry on the previous update.

If you dont' want to go back and read, my main point was that I sent email to the Larry King show yesterday and it was the one he read to the Jacksons. When I said '....and we are all so sad along with you" in my mind I was referring to the FOB's because it is here I have come to every day since May 06 and rejoiced over Barbaro and now come to help deal with this pain.

Just think-if a little 'ole email from a FOB can be on the Larry King show, think of the power we have as a group to accomplish anti-slaughter legislation and who knows what else?!

For the love of Barbaro and all he brought to us,

Jenny

Everyone please remember..........

We trusted and supported the Jacksons throughout Barbaro's hospital stay.

None of us should second guess their decision regarding cremation vs burial.

It's their choice.

Thank you, Alex for keeping this site open. We have so much to accomplish in honor of Barbaro.
You have been so wonderful to all of us and we are very thankful.

I have thought long and hard about where Barbaro should be buried. Barbaro, after his accident, had all the love and care that he could possibly have received at New Bolton. Mr and Mrs Jackson, who he loved so much, visited twice a day and he was so very happy, nickering when he heard Mrs J's voice coming in! He had Michael and Peter come everyday to love and groom him. He had the best possible care from the New Bolton Staff. He spent time everyday with his best buddy, Dr. Richardson. He grazed in the fields surrounding the Center. I believe that for the very most time, he was a truly happy horse. How could he not be with so much love and caring surrounding him. We may all have different opinions and they are all honored by me, but I believe that his spirit remains at New Bolton. It would be so fitting that a Memorial Museum be built at the Center and his remains placed there. He is still our miracle in progress.

He inspires us every day to be the best we can be.

Sharri

### Harriette: Thank you for your re-post. I didn't see it the first time.

So beautiful -- I'm almost starting to feel better with your image of Barbaro "waking up with a tickle on his nose..."

You truly are gifted with words inspired by Barbaro to help make us feel better.

Always Believe In Barbaro!

######

KAREN,

Could not have said it better!! THANK YOU!!! I also sent an e-mail to the station this morning when I got to work. My Frank jersey, it will be torn up and thrown away as soon as I get home!

Karen - TN

how do you find closure I can't seem to stop hurting and i can't believe barbaro is gone i lost 2 ibs already marge

Spirit Horse,
I alwasy wanted him to go on to, but that small doubt always remained. Maybe a protection for my heart breaking. It did.

Barbaro was here for a reason, his work will continue as it should and he wil have a hoove in it.

I am Mic-Mac and Iroquois. Sunday I put my turquoise on, I needed to calm myself down and that always works.

#### Dawn,way to go, you really said a mouth full and I just love the way is was said.
YOU GO DAWN!!!!!!!!!!!

I am with the Jacksons. I cremated my dog as it seemed fitting to do. He was a LARGE dog and I was not sure where to bury him as a FINAL resting place. This enables me to take him anywhere with me and this also gives the Jacksons time to grieve and then figure out where Barbaro's remains will finally be laid to rest. His soul is running free, his body was the shell and the Jacksons should be respected for the decision they made. Frankly, it shows me sincerely that they completely loved this horse. No DNA was taken, no sperm, just the love for this horse. Barbaro was like their son and no dollar figure determined their mind to save him....very honorable.

Prayer for the Barbaro Nation

The wisdom, passion and fierceness of our love for Barbaro is without limits. May we take the energy of our sorrow and transform it into a unified tapestry of prayerful support, each in his or her own remarkable individuality contributing a thread here, a bit of wisdom here, a nugget of prayer there, until we create, in loving and united community, a powerful, uplifting web that carries on the right and perfect legacy that Barbaro gave us every day he lived. May we be inspired now by his courage to remain steadfast in ours. May his great, willing heart comfort our hearts now as we accept the truth of his journey. May we continue to grow with the strength of Barbaro, the fiery, passionate champion he was and is forever.

AMEN


FOBs, my heart aches today with the love we share for each other and this horse and his people. Each post today leaves me in awe of the beauty of all of you. I wish I could write to each of you and tell you how much this means to have you here... helping...how brilliant your messages. Thank you. Something huge is happening here. Heaven on earth. Thank you, thank you all from the bottom of my heart for helping me heal mine. Weeping with joy, loss and gratitude in Saratoga.(((FOBs)))

Marge Dowler,
It will happen in time.It is too new for all of us to deal with. We all need to give it time to sink in and then we can deal with the reality of what happened. We just need time...remember that and take what you need. Today I am very numb.

I just wanted to say thank you to Tim for starting this site- I don't post very often but I just wanted to share that Barbaro - and all the information from this site inspired me to 'reactivate' my love of horses that I had when I was a young girl. It also brought back some painful memories of a horse I used to love very much. I was too young to do anything about it - but I believe he ended up in a slaughter house. It broke my heart so much that I couldn't bear to get close to another horse.
Barbaro's brought me back to my true love and I finally feel like my life has that ONE thing it was missing.
I've bought into some Thoroughbreds at a local track and I'm happier than I ever have been. Yes - it's alot of money but - they bring me joy. I love them all.
Thank you to all...and I will do all I can to get that bill passed.
Jo, in VA

Mark - you're right - great article!

Skyler - I'm in on that deal! I'll be happy to "weather" some sub-zero temps if this site can stay open! Alex??

Linda R

####
Jenny form AZ - When Larry read the comment, I was so hoping it was from an FOB from TWR. It was beautiful. Thanks for representing the FOB's so eloquently :)

Glenda, there are some real sickos in the world - remember Monday and all the creeps who posted vile things on this site?

I would not put it past a deranged idiot to have tried to desecrate his grave if he was buried. I am glad they cremated his remains.

I am posting this story—something that happened to a very close friend of mine and her family, therefore I know it is true--because to me it is proof positive that our animals are there with us in the next life. I hope it helps everyone to know for sure, not only where Barbaro is, but also where all of our animals are, and that we will be reconnected with all of them.

I have known this friend--Julie--for about 24 years. This story happened about 20 years ago, so 4 years into my knowing Julie.

Julie is originally from South Africa. Her family is of the British colonial stock that had lived in Africa for years by the time Julie was born. She and her husband moved to the US 24 years ago and I met them soon after.

In Julie's family were 4 girls and 1 boy--and the boy was being groomed to take over the family farm, which looked like the farm in Out of Africa, if you remember that. Julie's dad had made his money in construction and the farm was where he invested much of it. Chris, Julie's brother, was destined to take over its management and his parents devoted their lives to developing it for him.

One night, when Chris was 23, he was killed in a car accident--he wasn't found until almost 24 hours later, the car having fallen off the road into some kind of deep gulley way out in the countryside.

His parents were, of course, beyond devastated. they essentially had lost their reason for being, and the farm had lost all of its magic for them. They sold the farm, along with the animals on it, and after a year and a half of not being able to move on in their lives, took a 6 month trip to Europe, just to get their heads going in some other direction.

Before they left on this trip, Julie's mother had been given the name of a psychic medium woman in Scotland to contact if they went to Edinborough.

They did go to Edinborough and Julie's mother did call this woman. At first the woman explained that she couldn't see them as she only worked on government and crime cases, but as they were saying good-bye on the phone, the woman suddenly stopped and said "Wait--I am getting a message for you...I will see you." So off they went to see her.

Once there, this psychic woman immediately seemed to connect with Julie's brother, Chris. He identified himself to her and his parents using the African nickname the family used for him--something a Scottish woman would have no idea of.

He went on to describe the accident scene where he had died, and to explain the details of it, how it happened...answering a lot of questions his parents had had and clarifying to them things that someone who hadn't been there to see it could ever have imagined.

Then, he started talking about the people who had been there on the spirit side to welcome him--his grandparents and other relatives--using again, their African nicknames that told his parents that this psychic woman was not faking this as there is no way she could have known these nicknames.

Then he went on to talk about and name the animals from the farm that had died that were also there with him--cats and dogs, as well as some others. And then he mentioned a particular horse.

His parents were a bit confused as they had sold this horse with the farm and the horse was still there, or so they thought. This was the only part of this session that didn't fit with what they knew.

A few days later they called home to South Africa and actually spoke to the farm's new owners, as they had been keeping in touch with them since they'd sold the farm to them.

The news was that the very horse that Chris had said was there with him on the other side, had died.

I've never needed any more proof than that to know that our animals are there and will be with us forever.

KAREN: Thank you too, for giving that radio station a piece of your mind. I, too, am appalled that such ridicule came from TENNESSEE!! How can adults act like this??!! I would expect the trolls, who come to this board, to act like that, because they're probably silly little kids -- you can't tell what age people are on a mb -- but a host of a radio program???!!! THANK YOU AGAIN. When that guy drops dead someday, he won't have even 1/1,000,000th the mourners that Barbaro has. I hope that station disciplines him.

Reneee: I totally agree with you. This is not about his recovery...... There is much more to this than that......... I don't want to say anything negative but I now know that it was NOT God that didn't answer our prayers..... He did!!!!!!! As we Christians know, the truth will all be clear in the end........

I feel that Barbaro should have been barried whole like Secretariat but I guess there was a reason for the way that he was let go. My heart goes out to Barbaro and in time, God will reveal all of this to us.........

Thanks Renee for being so understanding with me..................

God Bless Nina.................

Kathy in Norbrook,

Thank you.

Chris Byers,
Funny you should mention Star Wars. On Sunday, when we all began to realize that something happening,... we were struggling quite hard to stay positive. But all I could hear and feel was "There is a great distubance in the Force"
Kinda goofy, but kinda true too.....

Leslie in MN

Thank you Nancy...that was very comforting to me. I gotta go get some work done now...be back later. Peace to all.

It is such a relief to be able to come here and share emotions. I am still so devastated, but am trying to focus on the wonderful days that our beautiful boy had grazing with Dr. R and Alex, all the treats, scritches and Lael grass, and the non-stop love from his owners and extended family. I'm excited that the Jacksons will have some Barbaro siblings in their lives - a couple of bright lights in an otherwise dark time.

It is such a relief to be able to come here and share emotions. I am still so devastated, but am trying to focus on the wonderful days that our beautiful boy had grazing with Dr. R and Alex, all the treats, scritches and Lael grass, and the non-stop love from his owners and extended family. I'm excited that the Jacksons will have some Barbaro siblings in their lives - a couple of bright lights in an otherwise dark time.

Thanks Nancy

Let's all bombard our Senators and Representatives re: the horse slaughter issue . Barbaro will be our "committee chairman" from afar .

Good bless Dr. Richardson and thank you Alex .

We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
Through the unknown, remembered gate
When the last of earth left to discover
Is that which was the beginning;
At the source of the longest river
The voice of the hidden waterfall
And the children in the apple-tree
Not known, because not looked for
Bur heard, half-heard, in the stillness
Between two waves of the sea.
Quick now, here, now, always --
A condition of complete simplicity
(Costing not less than everything)
And all shall be well and
All manner of thing shall be well
When the tongues of flame are in-folded
Into the crowned knot of fire
And the fire and the rose are one.

T.S. Eliot
Concluding lines, Four Quartets

Sorry for the double post. Got the wierdest msg. from my computer and didn't think the original had gone through.

#### Thanks to everyone who responded to my post of the letter to the LA Times. If you'd care to deluge this writer with your own versions: t.j.simers@latimes.com is his address. I googled on his name to find the article and then went thru an ENDLESS "registration" process to read that piece of crap. Finished my response around 1am last night, but couldn't sleep anyway!

I know a lot of people have problems with cremation--my Dad and husband being two of them--but I have always looked at fire as a purifying force. It would be so difficult to transport a 1200 lb. horse any distance for burial, particularly not knowing for sure where his final resting place will be. I've always thought that removing the head, hooves and heart was a little grim, so I guess I prefer to think of Barbaro's beautiful body intact and now purified by fire. He has left that body behind and is free from what burdened him.

I've had all of my pets cremated (except my parrot, and now I regret that!) and have a little memorial to each of them with their boxes. It will kill me to move and leave their remains behind, so this way I'll always have a part of them with me. I can certainly see why the Jacksons chose this for Barbaro.

Good morning all.....I am still feeling so awful. Cant stop the tears like the rest of you. And I am so sorry if this post offends any of you. But I am so upset and this is the only place I can turn.

Can someone please find out for sure that Barbaro was creamated.....I feel so disheartened.

I am trying to understand if the Jacksons actually chose this method, but it is very difficult.

I personally feel creamation is not a good thing.
If they were talking about a place for his burial,I assumed they meant his whole body. I have also read atricles that tell of only burying the horses head hoofs and heart.

I just really believed they would have a regular burial with Barbaro intact.

I am having a hard time accepting that it might not be that way.

Again, sorry for this post. I just had to let these feeling out.

Thank you. Ellie Az

Hi, Alex.

I'm chiming in and asking that you keep the site going -- look at the energy here . . . the interest and compassion maintained with the ferosity of intent to still try to finish the things Barbaro did not finish.

More than the need to stay connected to Barbaro (which is certainly still there -- missing him like crazy), the movement has begun . . . the Barbaro Effect.

We've been privileged to be part of something important that Barbaro's blazing into this world and out has generated. Clearly we still need a forum, a source for contact, information and caring.

Additionally, it is wonderful to hear your "voice" and keep us in the Pennsylvania horse country world.

And we cannot wait to hear about Barbaro's brothers -- I look forward to embracing every tidbit about them and watching them grow and enjoying whatever Barbaro's spirit is shared within them.

I absolutely LOVE the idea of a Museum . . . leave it to Gretchen and her family to continue to get it right. I have many of my animals buried, and some cremated. Cremation is indeed a way of keeping them whole and with you . . . I regret burying my other animal friends as I cannot take them with me if I should move. It is not disrespectful, but again that is a viceral and spiritual choice we all respond to differently.

My heart breaks for Dr. Richardson who clearly is lonely with out his "buddy" Barbaro . . . they were brotherly. Sabina Pierce described Barbaro's relationship to Michael Matz as a son and father. It looked like Barbaro had a human brother in Dr, Richardson. He is a wonderful man, showing a heart that is so large . . . and so broken.

Let's trudge on, Alex !

Dawn in Omaha-
Reading your letter to the LA Times this morning made me feel stronger than I have in days. Thank you so much for that in itself!
Yes- BE LIKE BARBARO!

Chris Byers: I agree with you. Who knows what someone might have tried to do to his gravesite. Or some sicko digging him up and trying to take DNA to clone. Barbaro boy, you rest in peace...

I just can not get it our of my mind that when Dr. Morrison applied that cast it was downhill after that. Maybe I am wrong, I hope so.

Dear Beloved FOBs,

The link below will take you to a nice article from yesterday on Michael Matz's thoughts and feelings. It also mentions Barbaro's siblings at the close.

www.ntra.com/content.aspx?type=news&id=23124

Hang in and hang on for Barbaro.

-Lisa S. in Miami, FL

I agree with Dawn. We had our first Lab cremated and that way he was able to come with us when we moved. That has always been comforting to me - that, and the lock of his fur that I keep in a gold locket.

Hi Everyone!
I know I was only an occasional poster to the site but work made it difficult to read everyone's past and be a part of the dialogue on a regular basis. However I did check the website every day, several times a day to keep abreast of the progress of our Sweet Barbaro and when I did have time to read the posting was so touched and inspired by the FOB's. Barbaro would have been praoud and now he knows and watches as he runs free.
The Hennigsn's video is wonderful. So good to see and HEAR our Champ. Can't wait to see the others this week. Thank you Hennegans so much. I hope you know how much this is touching every one means to everyone, and how much it will help as we all continue the journey of healing and remembering Barbaro.
Want to alert everyone to another site on UTUBE called Barbaro: Farewell. It is absolutely exquisite(?). You will need a box of kleenex, buom/watch?v=xihuomvTybe&mode=related&searcht I think you will appreciate it immensely. I am not good at this computer stuff but give this URL a try or just go to UTUBE. Best to all and thank you for being you and sharing that with so many of us.

youtube.c0m/watch?v=xihuomvTybe&mode=related&search=

may be

youtube.com/watch?v=xihUOmvTybe&mode=related&searcg=

####
Karen TN & Spirit Horse...

I was happy to respond to the radio station here in Nashville. I was shocked that they would act that way.... Unbelievable.

We all need to respond to these heartless people such as the one in LA Times, etc....
so their Managers will hopefully take care of it.

We just need to make sure we report them...and word gets out about the character of these people and the city they are representing.

Peace.

Just my 2 cents, but I think we should all RESPECT the Jackson's choice on what is done with Barbaro's body and be done with it. We would want the same consideration for ourselves.

Same goes for their choice of his final resting place. They were the closest to Barbaro so they should choose whatever helps soothe their heart the best.

Randee and chris:

While I respect your opinions, it is a long tradition in the horse racing world that when a horse as great, as beloved as Barbaro passes, he or she is buried whole. It is a way of honoring and respecting that horse. I do not doubt for one second that the Jackson respected Barbaro and that is one of the reasons that I find this decision so inconceivable.

BTW, I do not oppose cremation. But this was not an animal who should have been cremated, imo.

Obviously it is too late to change anything now, but I will never understand this decision.

Glenda

I understand the Jackson's decision to cremate Barbaro. Forever rid him of his damaged body and set him free and his final resting place will not be one of controversy in the immediate aftermath of this tragic ending.

I'm sure there will be a lot of ideas from well-meaning people on how best to honor this great horse. But again, the Jackson's are the only ones that have the right to erect any 'official' memorial to him

At first, I thought Churcill Downs would have been a great place, but then I realized that the Racetrack might have an alterior 'money' motive. Barbaro's celebrity status has already been utilized by profit mongers for personal gain.

As for burial or cremation. I've gone both ways with my dogs. I have bad thoughts about little "Thumper" being all alone and cold under a few feet of ground. I buried her near the duck pond, next to her sister, where I thought she would be happy. She always trembled and came looking for me when a bad thunderstorm passed through. In Oklahoma, that's pretty darn often. But I think she still comes looking for me whenever there's a bad storm.

I just recently lost my father's dog that I inherited. I buried her sister in the heat of the summer in the middle of the drought. The ground was like cement and I had to haul water from several miles away just to get the hole deep enough. Took me almost all day and I was exhausted. With Rose, she was put to sleep and 'Precious Pets' picked her up and disposed of her body. Her ashes are on my desk, close to where she used to lay at my feet. I've also managed to pick a spot that was more poison ivy than dirt with another dog.

Whatever choice the Jackson's made, it was their's to make. And no one has the right to criticize their decision. Their love for Barbaro was never questioned, and their final tribute to Barbaro was made out of love and doesn't diminish his legacy, his greatness, nor his message of hope.

Whether he was buried or cremated was a personal choice and their's alone to make.

RIP Barbaro.

Dawn,
Great letter to Simers. I emailed him as well yesterday. What I wrote was not as long or as eloquent, but I put it below.

"I used to think you were a clever idiot, now I know that you're just a cruel idiot. This wonderful horse will be remembered more fondly and for much longer than you ever will."

##
Dawn--beautifully done letter! Kudos to you, Tiger Woman!

###
Thank you, Harriet Brillianthawk, for both your wonderful writings and for reposting the soothing prayers of Mary S, who has been silently grieving.

###
Paul, you asked about afterlife, and proof of such. I've talked about this a couple of times before on this site, and I hope this is helpful. I guess it rests on whether you will believe what I say. I promise you it is the truth.

I have utilized the services of a well known and well respected animal communicator for about 10 years. She studied with the famous Penelope Smith, the Interspecies Communicator.

When my pets have passed away, I have contacted this woman, and what she tells me is uncanny. She has never been to my house--she lives on the other side of the state. She has never met or seen my pets in person. All communication is done via telephone (with me) and telepathically with the animals.

She told my husband that his childhood pet dog visits him "in the room with the blue carpet and furniture"--that was our living room.

She told me that our late cat Murphy visits me "in the room with all the colors; he is with the flowers"--our bedroom has pastel colored wallpaper, and a flowered quilt on the bed; this is where Murphy and I spent much time cuddling.

She told me that Murphy visits with my husband "in the room with all the music. He likes the fast piano music the best"--my husband and Murphy were "work buddies", and the cat would spend many hours with my husband in his home office area, and they listened to music on public radio. Frequently during his life, Murphy would show up when the piano segment was being played; apparently he still does that after his passing.

She told me, soon after Murphy passed away, that "He likes the yellow flowers". I had bought some daffodils to cheer us up, and put them in the dining room on the table.

She told me Murphy had been visiting with my husband when my husband was doing some home repairs (as he loved to do when alive). She said, "He doesn't always hit the nail", and related that Murphy had seen my husband hit his finger with the hammer. "He goes like this," she said, and drew her breath in. My husband said he had, indeed hit his finger with a hammer a couple of days earlier, and it hurt so badly he just couldn't even yell.

There's more, but my computer is giving me problems (again), and I have to sign off.

I hope this helps.
Sue M., Pittsburgh

I have been away from my house since Sunday and came back yesterday...My picture of Barbaro, all fours off the ground and flying in the Kentucky Derby, had fallen off the wall - Very symbolic to me in that the same thing happened when my grandfather died - his picture was off the wall as well....To me it was a sign that he is OK, jsut somewhere different.

In August a friend and I were driving from New Jersey to Baltimore. Imagine my surprise when we saw Kennett Square (I know nothing of the area). He pulled off and we drove past KF, and then found NBC...We stopped at the fence and looked at the signs, and then drove around the facility. I could really feel Big B everywhere, his presence and life force as i drove around pastures etc. And then it turned out that it was the day he first got to go outside again - that he had actually been eating the grass isaw that day - That's what i try to think about - That energy and life force that I could feel, and still feel through everyone here - and the joy he must have felt going out to graze the day I visited NBC.

Lisa in Colorado

Glenda:

There is a reason why Barbaro was not barried whole and in time, you will know what that reason was..........

Dr. Richardson and Alex my heart goes out to both of you. I KNOW that you both are hurting and feeling a great loss. Dr. Richardson you are the best. You didn't do anything wrong. You only did your very very best to save a colt that was injured and I saw the pain in your eyes many times on TV.......... I sense things you know........ You did the right thing.......... We all love Barbaro and we will (at least me) will never really say goodbye, just say see you later..........

God Bless Nina..............................

Everyone, he's at it again! T.J. Simers of the L.A.Times wrote another disgusting story regarding his FIRST article that he wrote about Barbaro. This time the chicken---- published "just a few of the hundreds of e-mails he received telling me they thought my article on Barbaro was hilarious". I sent him an e-mail asking him why he doesn't print the "thousands" of e-mails he has received from the people that loved Barbaro. Lets swamped him with e-mails letting him know what we think of his articles making fun of Barbaro's demise. I also wrote to the editor letting him know how I felt. I am so disgusted with this person and the mean spirited things he's written.
Barbaro's memory will live on forever, his will not! I will never forget you Barbaro.

Janet (Oklahoma) Where in Oklahoma are you from?

Nina,
Just think he is whole, just in a different way. But he is whole all of him is there. Not just parts. I don't know if this helps? Maybe it has to do with time and where and when he will be burried. I just feel I have to respond to you. You are so welcome. Times like this are very difficult.
Take Care

Amen Julie L.

I posted earlier, saying it was none of my business, but...

But you are right, it was none of my business.

My apologies

Dawn in Omaha,

Re: your response to the article in the LA Times

BRAVISSIMA!!!!!

Ro & Brady

I have to comment about Dr Morrison. I know we're all upset about losing Barbaro but we should not point fingers at anybody. Do you honestly think for one minute that Dr Richardson would allow anyone to treat Barbaro if he did not feel confident in their skills? Dr Morrison did not cause Barbaro to go downhill. Dr Richardson warned us all from the very beginning that this could happen and unfortunately it did. It doesn't make it any easier to accept but like I said, questioning Dr Morrison, to me, is like questioning Dr Richardson and I think that is wrong. Just my two cents.

####

Ellie,

Since our Alex posted it here, you can be sure that it is true - Barbaro was cremated. I think the Jacksons chose this for any number of reasons, some of which might be: they can take as long as they need to decide where the best place to lay him to rest will be; and, we've seen the kind of 'unkind, ruthless, unfeeling people' who post hideous thoughts about Barbaro - I can imagine that having him cremated may have put some security issues they may have had to rest. Ellie, take comfort in the fact that while Barbaro's spirit lives on, his body was intact for cremation and he will remain safe from any further harm while his complete remains rest forever in a very special place.

Don't apologize for your post, we all have a rush of emotions going on right now and this is the place where we can be of comfort to each other.

nice video of our beloved boy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhdTCNCoL80

i'm so sad.... i miss you bobby! love forever big boy!
Lisa

We, too, are upset about Barbaro's demise. His tragic journey does bring up a number of thought ramblings, and one of the things that Mrs. Jackson brought up last night was the importance of finding jobs for retired racehorses. Our mare (a not-very-distant cousin of Barbaro) is an off-the-track thoroughbred, and we are transitioning her to a new career in dressage. Please, if any of you can do this, consider providing a loving home for an OTTB. These horses are too often on their way to the killers, an amazing tragedy considering that some are still sound and potentially very capable for a variety of careers. New Vocations here in Ohio (www.horseadoption.com), a not-for-profit organization, is a wonderful place to start.

LLeslie -

It sticks in my mind also, that all was well until Dr. Morrison's cast. Wish someone in a news conference would have addressed this as a turning point. I will always wonder if there was something about the cast not fitting well, or something to do with the coffin bone, that set off the discomfort and Barbaro putting more weight back on his right & getting that abscess.

I'm going to post what I intended to before I replied to other posters, and then had a computer problem.

On my commute to work this morning, traffic was moving slowly (as usual--this is Pittsburgh). I was thinking about Barbaro. I saw a pretty white Lexus with a silver panel on the bottom pass me on the left.

The license plate said "ACN CAM" I don't know what the CAM is about, but I sure know "ACN" from out of the blue when I see it!! Wanted to share.

This experience this morning reminded me immediately of another which happened probably five years ago now. We had a cat named Koko. He was a compulsive eater, and got very large. As we had another cat with diabetes who had to have food available to him, we just couldn't keep Koko from eating. At the age of only 8 years, Koko had to be euthanized. That was in May. My husband's birthday is in late June. My daughter and I took my husband out to dinner on his birthday, and we had a gift bag with some tissue paper in it. Koko had always LOVED tissue paper and gift wrap in general.

After dinner, we came out to the parking lot to get in the car. Parked right beside our car was a HUGE van. The license plate said, "KOKIE", which was our nickname for Koko. He just loved my husband, and we figure he was saying "Happy birthday", and probably eyeing the tissue paper.

Sue. M., Pittsburgh

Sue McMullens' beautiful post just opened my tear floodgates again just when I thought I might get through the day without needing those darn tissues.

And Alex ,I know this is particularly hard for you , Dr. Anderson and all the Fair Hill family. All I can say is take comfort that each time you do the incredible things you already do with the most beautiful creatures on the planet, you will be ensuring Barbaro's legacy of love, care, compassion and concern.

Good morning, my Starshine.

Another day, more tears this morning as I received condolence emails from two of my sisters. One said she found out while watching Jay Leno last night. She said Leno made a tasteless joke.

I am very disappointed in Mr. Leno.

We've seen some comparisons between Barbaro and Elvis these past couple of days. Even now, almost 30 years after his death, Elvis and his fans still have their detractors. I guess this won't completely go away, but I really don't have time for those people.

There are people who absolutely worship sports teams and specific athletes, who buy all their insignia and memorabilia, who paint their bodies and shave their heads for the games...Dale Earnhardt Sr. is more popular now than when he was alive, and his legend continues to grow.

I'll bet many of the Barbaro mockers have their own "thing" and chances are I've mocked it. I would never go so far as to intrude on their websites or publish jokes, because that's cruel and bad manners.

I will try to be more tolerant of other people's deep, abiding interests and passions. We need tolerance.

Rambling here..still missing "my" horse as are we all.

I love the idea of a Barbaro museum. We can all visit him that way. I thought the Jacksons might be planning cremation and I am glad they did. They can protect him that way. We can still visit his remains if they wish, and his family can have him at home if they wish. While burying his body at Lael had a lot of appeal, I did wonder if the farm would stay in the family's hands when the Jacksons pass on---hopefully decades from now.

I personally think cremation is the better option, though I respect other's views.

Linda NV,
I agree with you.

Alex - thanks for changing the home page caption to "Barbaro Remembered."

Okay, that post from the UK got me. I was thinking I would get to see Barbaro when he was relocated to Kentucky or wherever. NOw the reality of that not happening has set in. But I resolve to remain positive and set new goals related to Barbaro. He was a positive force and there is no reason that positive energy he left us with should not continue. Just have to find the new direction.
Trying not to be sad.

Yes, Alex thank you for changing the caption!

I agree with LindaNV. Dr. Dean said Barbaro's condition was like "a stack of cards" in terms of when things went wrong. There will be infinite "what ifs," but the facts are that Big B received THE BEST care by people who truly loved him.

ps. I am really sick and tired of having to keep the Kleenex box nearby! ha ha!
SabrinaS from Hershey, PA

DEAR BARBARO,

I think I still post to you as a way of healing. I miss you already as it still is surreal. Our love for you will be forever however posting to you will be a very hard habit to break. When my two elderly canines died, I wrote letters to them daily somehow feeling that they were listening. I guess it's what I need to do for you as well Barbaro.
You remain our undefeated Champion, and have awakened so many souls. You will always remind us of "all that is good in life" AND will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers forever - "24/7".
God Bless you Barbaro, God Speed.

FOB'S,
wouldn't it be just awesome if there was a way to continue reading these comments for Barbaro where he's laid to rest? I don't know if technology would permit it, but...imagine standing over Barbaro's resting place and reading condolences, well wishes, etc in real time from people around the entire world - not for a day, but forever?

This bashing Dr.Morrison has to stop. Did you think that maybe that was what was in the plan. Please stop this horrible abuse of a good well educated and respected Dr.chosen By Dr.Richardson and the Jackson's. Imagine how he is feeling.

Alex,
Bless your beautiful loving heart.

I know Barbaro received the best of care. I do not want anyone to get mad at me about my post on Dr. Morrison. I am still heartbroken and I guess I want to blame someone. So Sorry
Love and Kisses Barbato!!!!

Debra WI,
Do we have that much time? :) It would be endless.

As much as we love him, Barbaro was and is the Jackson's horse.

They are not questioning or second-guessing any of his doctors nor the course of treatment. They are not pointing fingers.

Let's all respect that and follow their example.

Burial or cremation is an intensely private matter for the survivor's family, and is often made during a time of great grief and stress. I am sure none of us would want someone else telling us what to do with our loved ones' mortal remains.

I hope we will continue with this site to honor Barbaro and continue all the important work Barbaro has helped to start. I also enjoy reading about racing and training at Fair Hill.

Regarding the cremation of Barbaro. I know tradition is whole burial. However, I'm sure the Jackson's had very good reason to make the decision they did. I'm sure part was based on the fact this will give them time to make an important decision about where he will be laid to rest. I'm sure part has to do with security.

Thanks Alex for Sue McMullen email and for Elizabeth Laban, Barbaro taught her about the love of sport.
Tear again.
Your just the best!

Re Dr. Morrison's cast, my question is not to place blame - obviously everyone was trying to do what they thought was best for Barbaro.

I am just someone who likes, needs, explanation, so I can better understand what happened. When it's something in my own life, I try to learn (as much as is possible) from analyzing what went wrong.

And in this case, there's a big missing part of the picture, where one day Barbaro is walking around outside, grazing and happy. And next we skip to where he has to be put down.

I think that is part of the reason why we are all in such a state of shock.

HOW ABOUT,
BELIEVE BARBARO?
-----------------------------------------------------------dear Alex,
thank you so much for sharing this morning with us and many other mornings with us..-- .your grief, peter;s, mmatz, runs through a deep vein of history t--a thick thread you all have with barbaro.
my tears have been for you too.
.how brave you have been and courageous and how dr dean is suffering-- their bond can go on
i believe barbaro
..there is mystery in these other dimensions which we wont notice if we dont open our hearts and minds to feeling the landscape..
..the loss of barbaro's physical life is such a tragedy for our world..
however,
i feel that many have said verry thoughtful and wise things here.
.the whole point of rooting for a champion like barbaro, is that i believe, he is other worldly..--through his porfesssionalism ,his desire to heal himslef and his actions,
he showed me and shows me
how to live my life and how to serve for others..who can not speakl for themselves..
this racing industry ihas a veyr dark side to it all-very dark and barabro's sacrifce can not stop,end , now.
.this is when the real love work begins --..keeping his memory alive with joy and intelligent ,hard working muscle i swhere i want ot stay and go--i feel he sees me and all of us..that other worldly wisdom
i want to help solve the problmes his acciedent and death bring up--.like many fob, .
i am deeply sad and find it very difficutl to continue all my work that i have to do
..but the bottom line is
i am also deeply inspired by him NOW
i beieve his life to be veyr true and pure he loved ot run and win and loved to work and lvoed being lvoed..generuos ,witty and so brihgt . how good is that? the best to emulate ..i feel him racing and grazing on all 4 legs no pain--
this love now can be spun to solve the problems the racing world hid voluntarily..i might add..millions of dollars are involved here and we know what that means =money brings big trouble..
so as a fob just said this am, ,if gretchen and roy jackson can pull themselves together as they have since that awful monday morning and nine months of roller coaster love..
we must do the same for barbaro and the NBC staff that feel
they must feel teh mepty stall so deeply..all they did ---..
the legacy --i beieve barbaro and he stays no one in my heart as always .that he ahd to leave bec of his failing body is no reason to banish him to a dusyt memoery . nope no way..he was luminous and is luminous .i watched him alng wiht millions
run that race
..you can tell....
,the anti slaughter bill,musueums ,schools, so may things to create for his soul to enjoy... roy jackson has mentioned more then once THE BACKSTRETCH WORKERS..AND THINK OF HOW EDUARDO AND THE OTHER KIDS WHO WERE CLOSE TO BARBARO must feel now.
.to loose him
the real thing
they have heard in the stables about ..in hushed whispers..for years.. and then
..but we gain a new part of him too..
..only he doea not have to be miserable and can be free
..we are all different and that is a lovely thing therefore we can really get some great things done.in his name and breath, for barbaro..
i pray alex can keep the site.
.i believe barbaro
..in eveyr aciton he made it spoke of intelligence ,humor and great fire,spirit..
lets go --
i wish i could hug you all and mop your tears
i believe barabro.
.in evrythign he showed us how to do it right----------------------------------------------------------..
dawn thank you for writing that pathertic simers from lat times
i called their chief editor yesterday and had a fe comments ha ha ha to share wiht him abuot the unporfessionalism of this ''writer'' and he owes barbaro and us
a big apology..we let it go..
.i can imagine a kid writing something like that but in a grown up paper like the la times?
so on this third day when barbaro is in his new lhome away form home--his new life..and we are here wiht the rremains of that day..
we have a wonderful opportunity to step up in his name
i am devastated and especially for his family ..imagine how the jacksons feel ,dr dean r., who eloguently has fielded questions as he struggled to keep his heart from breaking.
.imaigne if we raised enough money to build a stall wiht a littel enclosure to go outside . to graze
this, for another horse to get a chance at life after a catastrophic injury, that horse could be taken care of at a new level to match all the great medicine he got at nbc..
may your day flow..
dear barbaro,
know that we are atruggling to carry on your songs even though we are hurting so much here on earth right now..-- we miss you so much
it is also true tht in this first wave of your departure, from earth, that i struggle with this- i cant
believe
that you
of champion , great talent and soul
had to leave and
creeps get to stay.
.but that is another forgiveness path for later till i can get my grief harnessed into gold...
in the light ,
martita

Sue McMullen..dont you ever take that bracelet off.

no point in trying to rehash the past really is there? whats done is done.

I had philosophical moment this morning. Dare I share?
Maybe Bobby needed to be called back to heaven so that his soul can be reborn again soon in a new body....we heard last night that LaVille Rouge has a COLT in foal......

Leslie,
You made me laugh with the Barbato. Thanks. I called him Barbado once.

Leslie- It's okay to be mad. I would be lying if I said I hadn't wondered the same thing before. However, when those thoughts creep up I have to dismiss them. Barbaro was is the best of care and Dr. Richardson would never do something that wasn't in the best interest of Barbaro. Like he said on CBS this morning, you can think "what if I didn't do x or y, there's no guarentee that z would've worked either".

#### Dawn in Omaha - I really appreciated your post. Fire as a purifyer... hmmmm, I am afreid of fire(s), (a friend of mine died in one), so I would never have thought of that. But I do like the thought of being able to have the remains, always. I never question other people's choices - my mother wanted to be cremated and she was. I would want to be laid out like some American Indians were, on a platform in a tree, left exposed to the elements of rain, sun, birds, snow, etc... Some might think of that as weird, but I think of it as dissolving slowly into the universe, just different. Of course, now it isn't done. My motto: to each his/her own, as long as it doesn't hurt others.

Alex . . . . the main page takes my breath away. thank you so much.

Leslie: Similar thoughts as well but things happen and everyone did their best - It was a very fragile situation, everyone tried their hardest, everyone wanted him to make it. We can't second guess - its not fair to everyone who tried so hard to do what was best for B.

I thought I was dealing better with all this today, but I'm not. The tears keep coming. It does help to read everyone's comments though.

Gayle

Dawn in Omaha, Fantastic letter! Not only did you give it to him with both barrels, but you kept your cool, gave the facts and summed it up nicely. Kudos to you and god bless.

Linda R

I continue to be amazed and heartened at the sympathy expressed by my family, friends and coworkers.

We have sent you on a journey where you will be free of pain. Not because we did not love you but we loved you too much to force you to stay. Barbaro, how we miss you! You will become a legend and your name will always be remembered with greatness.

Thank you so much for posting that article that Elizabeth Laban from the UK wrote: BARBARO TAUGHT HER THE LOVE OF THE SPORT. It so very eloquently sums up how I have felt about Barbaro these last eight months, it seemed like I was writing it myself. When I read the part about how she got to visit New Bolton and actually see Barbaro lying in his stall, it took my breath away. I can only imagine seeing the great one. I am still crying. This will be a long time healing.

Leslie in MN,
Well said. I had a thought that he will be somewhere on the track unseen, holding all the others back so his brothers will win. It does sound like something he would do. It put a smile on my face.

Susan E. I agree with you one hundred percent.

Ro & Brady

RENEE,
it would be awesome...if it could be.

I've been thinking too... If we did have an answer for what went wrong so suddenly - would it help us feel any better? If I had a logical explanation given to me right now, it wouldn't help ease my pain. Maybe later on I could understand but right now, it hurts too bad. LLeslie, I am not mad at you and it's okay to be upset and try to figure out why. It's all part of the grieving process and working out our feelings. We're all in this together and together we will get through this difficult time.

Renee...at first I thought you were talking to me..but I see it was LLESLIE that said Barbato.
In all honesty, once I typed BOOBY instead of Bobby so I was scared I messed up again..LOL

Alex,

I too LOVE the caption page. Thank you so much!

Marybeth in Massachusetts

Thanks everyone for being here for me today it has just been rough.
Love and Kisses Barbaro (Barbato for you Renee) HA HA

:)

REPOST

I was thinking, when I read an article about Mr. Matz and that he had "Go Barbaro" bumper stickers on a couple of vehicles---

How about if we make a bumper sticker that says,

"BE LIKE BARBARO"

I think this is a lovely idea. Anyone else???
????? How cool would that be? Proceeds to go to laminitis of course???

Posted by: Julie L at January 31, 2007 4:19 PM

I, too, have been overwhelmed by sadness - awed as I have been for the last 8 months by Barbaro's courage and intelligence. Though I haven't posted, I've been a Barbaromaniac. I realize that part of the grief is for all the "lost causes" I have championed in my life... all the rescued injured animals in their little shoeboxes who died anyway. Perhaps, Barbaro was going to be the one that finally made it.

I pray that his lasting legacy will be to make racing safer through the replacement of dirt tracks, the support of injured horses and workers through the Barbaro fund, the passage of an anti-slaughter bill, and redoubled research on laminitis - the scourge that strikes fear into the hearts of all of us horse owners and lovers.

If this site can support those of us who want to take on these causes... that are far from lost causes... then, I will be eternally grateful for your efforts. If we can make progress in even one of these areas... then Barbaro lives forever.

Jacalyn

Alex - I just want to add my thanks and appreciation for all you've done with this site. I hope as well that you will keep it open as long as you can. I've enjoyed following the other horses at Fair Hill as well.

Also, thanks so much for letting us know about the outtakes from First Saturday in May. I think that's the way we should all remember Barbaro...in his prime. That's how I picture him now, actually...as being made perfect again in Heaven.

Thank you and BIG HUGS to all of my fellow FOBs! You're all awesome!

Oh Alex, the main page is so beautiful, thank you. Tears again.

I can't begin to find adequate words to thank you for everything you have done, nor to express how sad I am for you.

LETTER FROM MIKE CURRY, Daily News Editor, TB Times
"Thoroughbred Times" posted a piece on Barbaro Tuesday with an interview with Gretchen Jackson on Monday. I was so moved by her words and the story, I emailed my appreciation to Mike Curry, co-author. Mike was gracious enough to reply, and gave me permission to post his letter here. I point your attention to his comments about the opportunity to use Barbaro's legacy for the improvement of the sport of racing. Link below to CBS TV interview with Mike.


-------

Susan,

I'm glad you enjoyed the articles. I find that I really pour my heart into Barbaro stories because of my respect for the horse and all of his connections.


You are right, how fortunate am I that Gretchen Jackson took the time to call me on such a difficult and emotional morning.


The loss of Barbaro is a devastating one for horse racing, but if in death he can help the industry recognize the need for safer track surfaces, laminitis research, and uniform drug rules, and his owners can use their public platform to put an end to horse slaughter in this country, then Barbaro will have become a truly transcendental figure in the history of horse racing. We were extremely fortunate to have him.

Thanks for your feedback, it is always welcome,

Mike Curry

Daily News Editor

Thoroughbred Times

www.thoroughbredtimes.com



LINK - a wonderful CBS news TV news interview of Mike Curry:

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=2411232n
CBS NEWS MIKE CURRY DISCUSSES BARBARO

Leslie in MN and Renee,

Julie L type HOTY for Horse of the Year and I read it as HOTTY! That's our Barbaro!

Carol
San Diego

In my grief, I looked for information on other horses that had died from laminitis, like Secretariat. I was surprised to learn that Foolish Pleasure, another great Derby winner, also tragically died from this dreaded disease. Here's a link to the story on Foolish Pleasure and information on preventing laminitis:

soneone in the discussion room said that LaVille Rouge foaled this morning and that Barbaro's newest baby brother is a large colt....how wonderful for the Jacksons.

Susan in Saratoga, thanks for posting that!

I'll take it as a sign that I need to stop crying today, Alex. My other post today disappeared in less time than it took me to type it. ;))

Alex, I told you once before that you are stuck with us. We, you and all of us, ARE Barbaro's legacy. He has left us his magnificent heart and courage, and taught us how to use them. We are the beneficiaries of his long fight, and to whom much is given, much is expected. And we have been given much. Barbaro's fight is over, but ours has just begun. The slaughter issue is going to be a marathon, not a sprint. And let us be heard far and wide about something else, too. We owe it to Barbaro, and to all the horses, to render the devastating disease of laminitis preventable and treatable. If we are to honor Barbaro, we must do these things. We need this site, Alex. We happen to like it, too. We like hearing about Fair Hill, and your mornings there. But we also need it. But you already know that, Alex. Perhaps it is much to ask. Still, we do ask. If you need help, financial or otherwise, we are here for you, Alex. Like I said, you are stuck with us.

And may Barbaro rest in peace, and run with the wind.

Dear FOB's:

I am in deeper grief today than I was on Monday and feel much worse, if that is possible. Trying to digest all the words written and images of Barbaro, trying to accept it. I can't.

Alex--please keep the site going, as not only have you been a connection with our dear Barbaro, but to horse racing in general. I am not in a position to be able to own a horse, but I miss being around them.

My friends, I am still grieving but more convinced that we must continue to work on the things we have started. I love the museum idea because it would be an opportunity to generate money for the very causes we have discussed here. As some people have pointed out, other sites would have ulterior motives--their own profit. Imagine a museum that would honor Barbaro and his brethren, and raise money for laminitis research,etc. That would really be taking this sad situation and making something good come of it. Selfishly, I wish it were closer to where I live, but I really think NBC would be ideal.

And when people think you're nuts, or you should just get over it--think of the people we respect: Dr. Richardson, the Jacksons, Michael, Peter, Alex, the nurses, etc.,etc. They are all professionals who know the ups and downs of racing. And they are all struggling too. There is nothing wrong with us. We are simply caring, empathetic people who are reacting normally to a great loss.

Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

We are here for each other.
Peace,
Buckeyes for Barbaro
Kathy from Toledo and the cats

Carol,
He was a HOTTY and a good looking one. He's making us laugh.

Everyone, please try to understand creamation. When you believe in God and trust in him, you will soon find out that the body is just shell that our soul lives in, our soul goes on forever, but the body get sick and tired and must rest. So it really does not matter if the body is in the ground, the soul is the one thing that makes the person or animal. BARBARO was all heart and soul, and God will take good care of him.

I can understand creamating Barbaro because it gives them more time to choose a site for his burial, they can be moved aroung easier, and remember the body is just a shell anyway that will decompose.

Thoughts....

Everyone, please try to understand creamation. When you believe in God and trust in him, you will soon find out that the body is just shell that our soul lives in, our soul goes on forever, but the body get sick and tired and must rest. So it really does not matter if the body is in the ground, the soul is the one thing that makes the person or animal. BARBARO was all heart and soul, and God will take good care of him.

Posted by: Carol Nichols at January 31, 2007 5:59 PM

*************************

God bless you Carol - you have brought me much comfort from your wise words.

I am so moved by everyone's comments on the Board today I can hardly type! Thanks to all of you for your thoughts, but especially to:

Dawn, for her letter to the jerk editorial writer in LA. WAY TO GO!

Nina, for her beautiful poetic tribute to Barbaro. WAY TO GO!

Leslie, for wanting to move on and leave this sadness behind, then pulling back because important stuff has to be done here. WAY TO GO!

Harriett, for reposting the word images and the moving (translate: tears!)story about Barbaro's arrival in Heaven, and tuck-in. (I missed them the first time around.) WAY TO GO!

Alex for leaving the possibility open this site may continue. WAY TO GO!

Yes, we have to keep on plugging to outlaw horse slaughter, defeat laminitis, outlaw dangerous track surfaces, see a Barbaro memorial tree planted or museum built. But, I wish there was more talk about introducing Congressional legislation and lobbying the NTRA to put a stop to racing young thoroughbreds until they are old enough and their leg bones strong enough to withstand the tremendous stress of racing. As the PETA lady said on Larry King's show last night, "Sure they're bred to run, so let them run; just don't let them race that young." It would cut down the number of fatal injuries at the track and training facilities, which claim between 700 to 1000 horses a year, if PETA's info was correct. Why isn't anyone talking about this? Why can't we start racing them at 4 or even 5 years instead of 3 to improve their chances of survival and keep them from possibly going through what Barbaro did?

Love you and miss you so much, Big B. Want you back! Time for more kleenex.

Peggy in AZ

Well, time for some more blubbering. See you later.

Renee

I once typed Brabaro. I'm glad I caught it the Big Guy wouldn't liked that one.

Alex, thank you so much for the "Barbaro Remembered" heading. The photo of Barbaro is achingly beautiful and touching. Once again, you have done the exactly right thing at exactly the right time. You work hard to provide all the updates, and you set a wonderful tone.
Thank you for your hard work and kind consideration. What a good man you are.

Sue M. Pittsburgh

Thank you Alex for updated your Start Page!! I love the picture and the new saying "Barbara Remembered"

Wow Joe. What a terrible story. Foolish Pleasure was a great horse, I had no idea he suffered like that. Thanks for posting that.

We will definitely have to up the fight against laminitis.

Thank you Alex for updated your Start Page!! I love the picture and the new saying "Barbaro Remembered"

soneone in the discussion room said that LaVille Rouge foaled this morning and that Barbaro's newest baby brother is a large colt....how wonderful for the Jacksons.

Posted by: Barbara Kerr at January 31, 2007 5:55 PM

*********************************
Is there any way to confirm that this happened before I get too excited?

FOB'S
Cosponsors for HR503 now at 85!!!
Keep up the great work in HONOR OF BARBARO!

####
The spelling bloopers are putting a smile on my face today - Thanks FOB's

Rikki - you're right - Boss would not like that at all - nip for you

If you guys need a living hero to carry forward with, why don't you look to Perfect Drift. He is a half brother to Barbaro and in looking at his pictures, there are a lot of similarities, especially as a 3-year-old. He is 7 now and like the Energizer Bunny; he keeps running and running and running. There are a lot of Dynaformers out there that are great horses and bear striking resemblances to Barbaro in athleticism and looks. Barbaro was one Dynaformer colt. There are a lot of others out there that are very special too.

I have been away from the computer for a while - thank you Sue M.

Carol,

I have often said that BARBARO was better looking than most of the blokes I dated and the two I married!!

Karen - TN

Julie L
Susan E

Sounds like a great ideal. Everyone needs to
BE LIKE BARBARO
the funds would go to laminits research.GREAT

Renee, Debra

This morning I was reading MM and his comments about Barbaro being THE ONE...The one that trainers wait for all their lives.

Then my minds eye jumps forward about two years to the training track at Fair Hill on a cold foggy morning like Alex so often describes to us. He is sitting atop Messaging and watching as Peter exercises one his new young trainees. As Peter struggles to hang on and they fly by him in a flash of fog, Michael looks down at his timer and says quietly to himself....."Well I'll be Damned...." and a smile finally returns to his face.

Larry King Live link for those who missed the show (like me):

http://www.cnn.com/CNN/Programs/larry.king.live/

Just look for the Big B photo and video link below.

Carol
San Diego

Ashley,
Thank you for at least acknowledging that tradition does call for whole burial. Most of the people posting here probably know that, but no one would back me up.
That's all. I'm done. To all I offended, I apologize - for the way that I feel, I will not.
Glenda

My last post was for Sue M - Pittsburgh - thank you for relaying the story about your animal communicator. I appreciate it.

Karen - TN,

I have an idea- what if, instead of destroying the jersey, it goes up on ebay and the profits go towards Laminitis Research?
That would be nice- a good thing to come out of an ugly thing.

I was just thinking today of how Foolish Pleasure must have been greeted at the Rainbow Bridge by- you guessed it- Ruffian, who would have wanted to finish their race :)
I used to hate Foolish Pleasure, and sometimes still catch myself doing so. But it was not his fault, he was just along for the ride. Ruffian knows.

Dear FOB's:

I am in deeper grief today than I was on Monday and feel much worse, if that is possible. Trying to digest all the words written and images of Barbaro, trying to accept it. I can't.

Posted by: Christine at January 31, 2007 5:57 PM

***********************************************
Christine, we have been on this journey for eight months now, on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Trying to accept that Barbaro is not here is very difficult. Acceptance is somewhere in the future, no one can put a timetable on it. I cannot bring myself to watch a video, any video. I'm not ready. I'll say a prayer for you.

Hola Barbaro Nation

It is impressive to see the many FOB's pour their heart out whithout shame or fear of ridicule. There are some who would rather appear cool and detached than risk love. They are the "tragically hip". The proverbial school yard bully who lashes out because of insecurity and cowardice. It takes courage to love out in the open.

ALEX thank you for providing this place. I know first hand what a source of solace it has been during the past 2 days. Your words told me that Barbaro was gone and I am blessed that I did not find out some other way. We are able to grieve together. I will forever be grateful to you and Tim.

God bless all who love Barbaro. God bless Barbaro.

I find myself in the same emotional boat so many are. I go along okay and then it hits again- the reality of it all.

The tears choose their own timing.

I just wanted to say thank you for this site and for all of your posts. I've been coming here for sometime to get news on Barbaro and would very much like to see the site continue. It helps to heal by reading the articles and the posts. I know the articles will slow down - but Barbara's legacy will continue.

Lynn

Glenda, you did not offend anyone :)

##
To Paul--It's nice of you to respond. I am very glad that you found some help in what I related. There most definitely is afterlife, and those who have passed from this world can visit and be with us from time to time.

Sue M., Pittsburgh

########

Christine, I understand completely. I'm not a crying mess today but I feel such a sadness. This will just be a tough week. We just need to get through it and we will. Then you can focus more on the issues at hand that Barbaro brought to light. We will never forget him. He is as far as I'm concerned "horse of the century."

Thanks Alex for the new start page. It's still hard to even see Barbaro remembered. You are our angel Alex, without you we couldn't be here. You work so hard for us and we appreciate you so much more than words can say.

######
Just a thought - maybe there could be a Barbaro memorial bracelet with the proceeds going to lamintits.
And i support the Jackson's choice about Barbaro's cremation. It gives them more time to choose a final resting place. My dogs have all been cremated and i have their remains and when i move they are not left behind
I still believe
Love, Joanne in NJ

Alex~ THANK YOU for the new page... it is a wonderful tribute to Barbaro and so much easier to click on. BRAVO!

GLENDA IN PA

((((( hugs )))))

We're all hurting and it takes different forms and there's no rhyme or reason to how we'll grieve at particular moment. Only time....

Stick with us!

####
What a beautiful post from Sue McMullen. The love for Barbaro transcends the ocean that separates us.

LindaNV - I know how you feel - my dog died SEVEN years ago and I still can't bring myself to watch videos of him. I can only look at still pictures.

Please do keep this site open. It is comforting, and I use it to keep myself informed about what is going on in racing.

Paul, I understand completely. It's amazing how much our pets have an impact on our hearts and lives.

#### I am glad the Jackson's cremated Bobby - It gives them more time to figure out how best to honor him....And to all, there can be a lot of restrictions regarding burial of a horse, especially one who has been euthanized...I think it was a good choice - most importantly, it was the Jackson's choice for their beloved Barbaro.

Lisa in CO

Hi Alex;
I hope that you keep this site open in memory of Barbaro and to also keep the tremendous work going for anti-slaughter etc. Since this opened there has been alot of good things coming from here and also a lot of support among the FOB's which is such a great thing to see.

The update with Sue McMullen was extremely touching and as far as taking my bracelet off I never will as that has become my tribute to Barbaro and all that he stands for. I also hope that we take Mrs Jackson's lead and keep up the fight against anti-slaughter. So PLEASE keep this site running.. Thanks for everything you have done for us and hopefully for the future as well.

My thoughts and prayers with you Alex and the Jackson's, Edgar Prado and Dr. Dean and Mike Matz and all who knew such a magnificent spirit.

He will always live on in my heart and thoughts forever.

Prayers to everyone.
Kari

APOLOGIES IN ADVANCE TO ALEX FOR WHAT I'M ABOUT TO SAY...(Alex, you have my email address if you want to scold me)...

I received some concerned emails this morning about this board "going crazy" and after skimming SOME posts I have to agree....

JUST WHO DO YOU ALL THINK YOU ARE TO JUDGE HOW THE JACKSONS CHOOSE TO TREAT BARBARO'S "EARTHLY SHELL"? JUST WHAT MAKES YOU THINK YOU DESERVE A VOTE - EITHER ON CREMATION VS BURIAL, OR ON THE CHOICE OF HIS FINAL RESTING PLACE?????

Good God, people, just whose horse is this? I've used this phrase before when some people got just a wee bit too territorial about Barbaro - Yes, we all love and mourn him "as if" he were ours...but HE'S NOT! I do happen to be an advocate of cremation (have the cremated remains of all my cats, and my fiance...and some day my cremated remains with be mingled with theirs - I personally find the idea of cremation far more comforting than the concept of deteriorating in the ground)...BUT even if I thought the process of cremation were barbaric, I would keep my opinions to myself and support the Jacksons in every way possible during the tragic time! They have been more than generous and gracious in "sharing" Barbaro with us, and I think we need to either return that generosity of spirit to them in their time of grief or keep our dissenting opinions to ourselves or offsite!!!

FLAME AWAY AT ME, I don't care....but evidently some of you have made a quick recovery from the tragic loss of Barbaro because how quickly you are back to second-guessing/judging the decisons of people WHO HAVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE THOSE DECISIONS!

Barbaro, Spirit Horse, you guide and sustain me, and this tirade was not worthy of you...but I hate to see ANYONE suggest that your parents have done anything "wrong" concerning you...and I also know that your earthly shell is now of no concern to you. God bless you for being my gift, my prize and my dream!
BARBARO - CHAMPION OF MY HEART FOREVER
Nancy

I hope, Alex, that you will continue this site, comments and all- as there will always be a horse or person who needs help and support- and we're already here and have lots of practice at just that.

##leslie MN, thank you for your visual, it was very moving.

Judy

There is a beautiful tribute to Bobby on www.flyingfilly.com.

For anyone unfamiliar with flying.filly--well, they do it all, and they do it with respect, love and grace.

Last night on Larry King Mr. Jackson said LVR was carrying a colt. I am so glad he's here. I hope he has a tornado-shaped star on his forehead and a white spot on his left rear heel. But I don't really care if he doesn't. I'm just glad he's here and he and Mama are all right.

Welcome, foal!

Thank you Alex for the beautiful piture of Barbaro. I pray that you keep this page available to all of us that grew to love Barbaro. I go out several times a day and just read. Peace Be With You at the difficult time.

Mel Dundon

on this web page; http://www.ntra.com/content.aspx?type=news&id=23124

The first video; Barbaro remembered, in the beginning shows Barbaro as a baby. First time I have seen a picture of him as a baby.

Dear Dawn in Omaha! All I can say is "right on", your anwser to the LA Times editiorial was so on the mark. Thank you so much for speaking for us, for the Jacksons, for New Bolton and Dr. R. and for Bobby and all that has been done in his name.

Mrs. Jackson's idea of a museum for Bobby and other horses that have been trained and raced from the area around Fair Hill is excellent, and that being Bobby's final resting place, a place where we all can go to honor him is a wonderful idea.

I hope someone will explore the idea of a video about Bobby for sale to benefit a cure or treatment for lamintis. I know I would line up to buy it.

Thank you to all my fellow FOB's you are such a comfort to me.

May God Bless the Jackson's, Dr. R. and the angel care givers at New Bolton.

######
Nancy in CT, I too have been thinking the same thing.

Hello fellow Barbaro fans, you know, of course I cried when the news broke, but starting yesterday I had a spiritual lift if you will. Barbaro's spirit and will to survive never waned, he only succumbed to complications of a devastating injury. I can't help but feel that his incredible spirit is bursting the heavens wide open. He is FREE, to run in the winds of heaven, graze on its lush green pastures, and frollic with the mares. He has been healed by God's hand and is now FREE, you know he loves it. I really feel his beautiful spirit all around me. Us earthlings feel a great loss, but the heavens are thankful. Can't you imagine what the fillies in heaven are thinking, "Holy S..., look at him"! I'm sure he's quite busy and loving every minute of it. Don't be sad, be glad he's free. FLY HIGH AND RUN WITH THE WIND SWEET BARBARO!!!

Nancy in CT: I'm with ya girl. As stated, I am all for cremation, yet hold nothing against those who are not so it would be fitting to have respect for the Jacksons during this time and with their decision. They have shared Barbaro with us and have been beyond genrous - they deserve our respect, our support and our understanding of the decisions they make about THEIR HORSE.

Nancy in CT

Tradition Tradition Tradition

And I will say whatever I want here - I have the same rights as you and if I question a decision I have at least explained WHY I questioned it. Let me alone. I'm at work trying not to melt into a puddle of tears.
Glenda
If you have something more to say to me, email it.

Like alot of other posters I feel worse today than I did on Monday, it's hard to accept that Barbaro is gone.

I didn't see it posted earlier but there's a really touching article on the NTRA website by Andrew Cohen about Barbaro, I don't know how to post a link to it, sorry. It's listed under the top stories.

I've had all my kitties cremated and have their little urns placed in their favorite spots. This way they're always with me & will be buried & scattered with my cremains when my time comes. My mother took a lot of heat from some relatives for cremating my dad, but it was his wish and we respected that. So now a portion of his ashes are buried and a portion were scattered at his favorite trout fishing spot...

I'm pleased the Jacksons went & did what they felt was best before releasing it to the public.

Oh, and don't forget Dr. R and the Gretchens will be on Larry King tonight.

FLY HIGH AND RUN WITH THE WIND SWEET BARBARO!!!

"Another Comfortable Night" - at least we know now, these words will remain forever, Barbaro is finally comfortable EVERY DAY, EVERY NIGHT AND FOR ETERNITY.....there is no more guessing or wondering and hopefully we can all feel some comfort in that....

can't find the "barbaro remembered" page and photo: Roadmap, anyone? Thanks: jonna

Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have been nothing but generous to the public, and they have always known what is best for our beloved Barbaro. There should be no criticism of them for anything. God bless them always (They too are Champions)

Joe, thank you for the link to Foolish Pleasure and the laminitis. I did not know that.

Addtl. to Nancy in CT,
Oh, and quick recovery - not bloody likely here. Don't presume to know how I feel. My heart is aching with this tremendous loss. This hurts as much as when I lost my greyhounds (and had them cremated BTW) so please, again, let me alone.
Tears are streaming - thanks for trying to make me feel worse than I already do.
Glenda

####
Linda nv, you are so welcome. Barbaro has left us all with a message, so now we must be his voice.

You people ALL need to GET A GRIP! I caught my 15 year old daughter out on this site and this is nothing but a chat room for morbid people with nothing better to do.

If all of you are as depressed about this horse dying as you profess to be, then YOU NEED TO GET SERIOUS PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP---IMMEDIATELY! I'll wager that most of you don't even own a horse (I was raised in this brutal industry and my family unfortunately still has interests in it). And, I can guarantee that about 99% of you never even saw Barbaro in person (I did at the Florida Derby last year). Yeah, he was a nice racehorse and he won the Kentucky Derby, so have a lot of other nice racehorses. He broke down, so have a LOT of other nice racehorses.

I don't hear a lot of wailing and gnashing of teeth for the 1 to 2 horses that suffer a catastrophic breakdown ON A WEEKLY BASIS on racetracks all over the country on a consistent basis. Where are their memorial blogs?

They tried to save this horse (Barbaro) so hard because of the insurance money at stake (the insurance companies definitely had a say in his treatment and when he was put down). The mortality policy is a monopoly money compared to the payoff under the loss-of-use policy. That will be in the tens of millions of dollars. That last very gruesome procedure when they drilled his healed right leg had insurance execs written all over it -- trying every last ditch effort they could to not pay off. Most of you aren't familar with insurance of horses of this value -- YOU DON'T JUST PUT THEM DOWN BECAUSE YOU DECIDE TOO. Read up on the story of Alydar, people.

Quit acting like all of you had a personal stake in this horse. The "gory" details of his last hours and what they do with his body -- why is that of concern to you people?

What about all the Military men and women that are losing their lives over in the Middle East? Do you morbid people shed any tears for them?

Just adding my two cents about the cremation. You know now Barbaro can be at home and wherever else they decide to lay him down. A dear friend of mine passed a couple of years ago and there were many of us who took a small amount of ashes home. Funny...she was a horse person and I have asked her to watch over Barbaro. Her ashes sit beside his candle and picture at my home.

Grief takes many shapes and forms and we all handle it differently.

Anger is part of grief and it may come and go.
I have felt it too, wondering why Barbaro's poor body let him come this far and no farther.

BUT FIGHTING AMONGST OURSELVES will not bring him back. It will not give an answer why he's gone. It will not make the Jacksons or Alex or Dr. Richardson or Michael or Peter--ALL OF WHOM read this board--feel any better. As much as we hurt, their pain is exponentially greater.

Please let's keep things respectful of one another and Bobby's human family while we grieve and while we plan to help carry out his unfinished work.

TROLL ALERT

Please don't respond to

"Posted by: Linda at January 31, 2007 6:38 PM"

TROLL ALERT - Remember - Do NOT REPLY

Linda R

Jonna -

It's the page you see when you open timwoolleyracing.com. Alex updated it and it is gorgeous.

ACN!

Yes, that's right. Always Comfortable Nights! That's what Barbaro has now and forever...always comfortable days...always comfortable nights. I'm taking a lot of comfort knowing that from here on out, instead of having to read "ACN," I'll just know it in my heart.

I miss you terribly Barbaro, but I know that you're all right now. You crossed your final finish line with dignity, courage and grace. Your work here was finished, and it was time for you to go home, but don't worry honey, we'll pick up where you left off. I hope we do you proud.

You will always remain in my thoughts, my prayers, my heart. I love you Barbaro...I always have...I always will.

Rest in peace sweet boy. It's been an honor.

Break it up.... break it up.

I know we are all still hurting. Think about things for a minute please... give yourself some breathing room....take a walk....go have lunch....
take a break. Its okay.....its okay....

Really...its okay...

Leslie in MN

Susan E - great minds think alike, uh? LOL

Linda R

Thanks, Wendy: got it....and yes, so beautiful...

I want to direct this message to Linda. Up until now I thought it was best to ignore the people who have visited this site with their negative comments. I have only this to say to you. If it disturbs you that you "caught" your daughter on this site perhaps you should pay more attention to your daughter and be more aware of what she is doing. Most of us posting to this site have found some comfort listening to each other. It doesn't matter whether we ever saw Barbaro, or any other race horse for that matter. Have some respect for this site. If you find it objectionable then stay off of it.

Gayle

Dr. Richardson seems to be in deep, deep grief. He seemed so last night on Larry King's show; he seemed so today on the CBS broadcast; he seems so in an interview printed in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Look at the dear man: he is pale, his face is haggard, he told us before January 29 that he was "worried, not sleeping, upset". He got up before 6:00am every day for 8 months to check on Barbaro, and now Barbaro isn't there. Dr. Richardson is, I believe, truly heartbroken and devastated. Barbaro was his friend.

Can we please send cards to Dr. Richardson at New Bolton? It would not hurt to include "and staff", as they are also hurting.

I think Dr. Richardson needs whatever comfort and loyalty we can give him now.

The New Bolton address is on the website. I sent Christmas cards there.

Thanks to any and all who support this and will send this man some cards and show of kindess.

Sue M., Pittsburgh

Each day is slightly better, until I sit down and think about Barbaro and feel the grief come back. I feel so for Dr. Richardson, as his grief has been clear in the interviews I've seen and read. I can't get myself to look at too many pictures or videos, it hurts too much to think of how I wished Barbaro was still here, and happy and healthy.

Today I go in for a surgical consultation to fix a torn ACL in my left knee from a sports injury. Last week I had been telling my husband that it will be me and Barbaro, healing together over the next six months. After this happened, I lost all of my own fight to get through this surgery and rehabilitation. I know that sounds silly. But I'm trying to get it back now. I know Barbaro would have fought his way back.

Linda: You need some serious help to come onto a site like this and say such TERRIBLE words given the grieving the Barbaro people are doing - you have no heart and no soul so go away and find some other hole to put your anger into. I do own racehorses. The Jacksons would have collected a large insurance policy if Barbaro was euthanized at the track or many months ago. It has dwindled and they have endured costly medical bills to save a horse they loved. I work at Fort Bragg, NC, have fought for our country, cry for comrades killed in war and I can assure you that MANY MANY soldiers have cried over Barbaro - a uniting of American Hero icons, soldier and horse, yet YOU have separated them. You need help to determine humanity, priority and courage. If you knew anything about this site, you would see that many people honor, cry over and pray for many other horses....go away, you are not welcome here....your daughter is SMARTER THAN YOU ARE...

One thing that has really been disturbing me and making me so sad about the whole "spiritual" issue, among other things too, is that I want and NEED confirmation that Barbaro is really someplace in the universe right now -- "alive".

So, in the midst of this heavy grief, I asked Barbaro early this morning to come to me in a dream soon. A few hours later, an old memory popped into my head from childhood, so maybe it was sent by Bobby.

When I was about 9 or 10, we had neighbors down the street, Mary Jane and Joe, who owned a Husky dog. They even named him "Husky". I didn't know them very well, because they didn't have kids I could play with.

One evening, after Husky died, they came over to our house and related the following incident to my parents. I was in bed, but my mother told me the story the next day. I was so impressed by it, that I told it in front of the whole class at school later that year, when our teacher asked us to tell about something strange for Halloween.

This is it:

Mary Jane's husband, Joe, owned a bar in New Orleans, so he came home late every night from work -- usually in the wee hours. Some nights he'd have a drink or two before he left his bar.
But this particular night, he had had absolutely nothing to drink.

When he got home and inside his house, he went through the kitchen, to the back door, in order to retrieve something from the backyard. But when he opened the door and peered into the dark of night, he saw Husky (an all white dog), who had died recently, standing in the yard looking back at him.

Stunned, but with the presence of mind to know that if no one else saw this, no one would ever believe him, he remained at the door and yelled for his wife, Mary Jane, who was in bed. But he didn't yell out to her what he saw. He just said: "Mary Jane! Mary Jane! Come here!"

When she ran to the back door, which Joe still had open, and asked him what was going on, he told her to look into the yard. When she did, she yelled, "JOE! IT'S HUSKY!!" He said to her, "I know, Mary. I just had to make sure I wasn't seeing things." Then, just as soon as Mary Jane had seen him, Husky faded. They never saw him again.

I get goosebumps just remembering and retelling that story -- a story I hadn't remembered for a long time, but which I NEEDED to remember today.

Mary Jane and Joe were good, decent, Christian people; they were very reserved and very traditional; not at all the kind of people to "make up" something like this. At the time this incident happened, they were in their late 30s or early 40s. Joe died not too long after Husky did. Maybe that's why Husky came back... because his owner would soon pass over too.

When I told this story at school, my teacher and classmates fell silent. Not one student laughed, or thought it was ridiculous. I believe that they were as affected by it as I was.

I NEEDED to remember that today, because Barbaro's death has brought me to my spiritual "knees", and made me question everything I thought I could depend on.

So, Barbaro, if you sent me that memory today, THANK YOU! If you can visit me in a dream, that would be "icing on the cake"!

If I had one wish -- other than to have Barbaro back, of course -- it would be that the Jacksons, and Dr. Richardson, would have one last visit from Barbaro.

How GLORIOUS it would be, for Dr. R., upon making his early morning rounds near Bobby's stall, to be given the gift of this special vision -- to see...one last time...Barbaro...standing in his ICU stall... PERFECT IN EVERY WAY...and bathed in a translucent glow of HOLINESS.

George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals
New Bolton Center
382 West Street Road
Kennett Square, PA 19348

Please ignore the troll.

It wants attention.

Trolls starve without attention.

Trolls go elsewhere if they don't get attention.

Trolls are not worth it.

Trolls lie to get attention.

PLEASE ignore it.

Alex love the Barbaro Remembered ... this will help us work through the grief.

DEB G.

I AM STANDING UP AND APPLAUDING RIGHT NOW !

THANK YOU !

Nancy in CT--

First, I vote with you.

.............

Also, although I probably should not post anything about this because I'm not really sure it, but I think that perhaps there is some confusion over La Ville Rouge (Barbaro's mom) having foaled this morning.

I checked the Forum as someone said it was posted there, but all I found was mention of the Jacksons' comments last night on LK that her unborn foal is a colt.

In another thread there is apparently a video cam where foaling can be viewed in real time (I haven't been there to see for myself though), and someone was posting about "Belle's" foaling this morning and having a colt---and I'm thinking that's what some people misinterpreted as being Barbaro's mom--which she's not.

So, sorry if I've just added to the confusion, but I don't think La Ville Rouge foaled today at all...and if her colt from last year, now officially a yearling was foaled on March 15, she wouldn't have been bred back until sometime after that and wouldn't be due until 11 months after ...I would be surprised if she would have foaled this prematurely.

Just hoping rumors don't get too wild...

Nancy in CA

Linda's fifteen-year-old daughter could have gone to a lot worse places.

What's wrong with caring about a horse and rooting for him, and STILL caring about the troops and rooting for them? Can't people do two things at the same time?

Last year, in my opinion, was an awful year. There was one bright thing, one bit of hope in a pretty bleak landscape, and as horse owners and pet owners and human beings, we know what it is like to pray for someone to get well, and also to let someone go. Why think that's so crazy? Who is the judge of what is important and what is not? Is it you, Linda? Are you the arbiter of taste and fashion and, more important, feelings? Barbaro's battle inspired ill people to fight on. Barbaro's story illuminated the issue of horse slaughter and his legacy will be a renewed fight against laminitis. There is already a move to safer track surfaces because of Barbaro. He showed us the bond between human and thoroughbred, and how good people can be, just because they ARE good.

So which of these is important and which isn't?

Linda, who are you to lecture people on this board? Move on.

Someone posted the other day something about Barbaro lining up his food. I've never read anything about this before. Could someone clue me in? It sounds like a story that could put a smile on this sad face of mine. Thanks!

Alex, Thank you for the beautiful new page! That particular photograph of Barbaro reflects all that he is ... so beautiful, so regal, so BIGGER THAN LIFE ITSELF! You are awesome!

Nancy in CT ... Everyone grieves differently and everyone deserve their own opinion! It's called freedom of speech! I don't think anyone is trying to villify the Jacksons ... they were just expressing their own views on the subject. Do we have to be AFRAID to post our OWN feelings here and not reiterate the feelings of a few people who seem to me to be very "cliquish" on this site? Some people are leaders ... not followers!

And now I'll take your advice, Susan E., and ignore.

My post above was more for us than for that woman.

After Barbaro passed away, I began to think of visiting his grave which had his body and putting a dozen roses on it. Then I read that he had been cremated. Another attachment had to go. Barbaro will always be with us. His spirit is free. I am grateful for this site. If you are reading this site Dr Richardson I just want you to feel at peace you did all you humanly could. Destiny must run its course. We all can see how deeply Barbaro touched you. Perhaps more than you could ever have dreamed. But although painful it is also very spiritual to touch those realms of love. I just pray now that a cure for laminitis can be found and you may be a part of this. BARBARO YOU ARE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.

Chris Byers: :-)

I recall hearing several times (including from the Jacksons themselves during their interview last night on LKL) that La Ville Rouge was in foul with a full brother coming in the Spring. Which means, she could not possibly give birth today....The Jacksons even stated they owned this colt and would give him the name of another hound which was on the family picture they have and is how Barbaro got his name. They said it gave them luck once.....they did say their horse was coming in the spring though...

Deb G. I just wanted to say its good to see you back here. Jen

Please All. Let's respect Alex, et al and ignore posts like that one you are talking about. Replying to them just gives them what they want..

My young niece LOVES this site and has found much comfort in her grief (as we all are) coming here to read all the great posts from others that also loved Barbaro. she is 14 and I would not have recommended to her if I did not think it would help her or help inform her. she loves horses and is working 2 pt jobs to earn money to buy a horse this summer!! She emailed me this morning to say thank you for showing me this site and finding others that are sharing what she is feeling. She says now she wants to get a rescue horse!

#
"That's the Spirit", Spirit Horse--welcome back!
Thank you for sharing that powerful story. I believe, totally.

;-)

Sue M. Pittsburgh

Deb G. SO glad to see you back also!!! Have missed you!

Spirit Horse ... So good to see you back. You had me worried!

Hello All:

www.marestare.com is a website that has a vast collection of participating breeding farms.

It is uplifting and wonderful to surf through if you have never seen it.

Please do not mistake the colt born to "Belle" being related to Barbaro at all. Belle is a mare on the Legacy Clydesdales farm. She is one of many mares on the site.

Take a look at the site!!

Have a blessed day!

###
J Carson Black, enjoyed your post. thank you!

Thank you, thank you, for posting the beautiful picture of Barbaro on your home page and for changing the message. It was breaking my heart to read the about the big fella being euthanized. He's free, running like the wind, on beautiful strong, healthy legs.

nina--your poem Tribute to Barbaro--Champion of Hope is amazing!!!! thank you

Linda s

Family,
I hope everyone is ok. I read the article Jenny posted and lost it at the last sentence...Barbaro gave his life for racing, it is time to give something back to him.

#########
NancyinCt,
Not going to flame at you. In fact, if I owned the ashes I would do exactly what I have done with my beloved Peppers ashes, keep them with me, put her favorite toy and flowers (fresh in the spring) and all the cards I got. I have a little memorial to her and the first thing I do when we have a tornado watch is get my dogs safe, and then grab her ashes and take them to the basement.
So no, Nancy, please say what you want. You have given so much to this board.
I don't even see the need for anyone suggesting where he goes. If Churchill Downs wants to honor our Boy, they can put up a statue.
If New Bolton donates a few acres for a memorial, we can help with that, but I agree with you Nancy.

Love to Family,
Susan

Loretta, I have seen my departed sweet animals at different times just, for an instant , but all my animals still on the mortal plane here see them too - the cats follow them with their eyes and the dogs bark. So I know when it happens that I am not imagining it.

Hilary,

That is a lovely thought--Dr. Richardson being the one to find a cure or prevention for laminitis.

Speed the day.

###
FAYE - some/many of us feel that Barbaro is healed now...and so we will pray for your knee to heal, too!

Spirit Horse, the Bible says that when Jesus returns, He will come on a white horse, along with tens of thousands of saints who are also riding white horses. So, there are horses in Heaven. Barbaro is there now, happy, and his coat is now white. Feel happy about this!

Spirit Horse aka Loretta - That was a lovely story. And I happen to believe it as well. My husband told me once that when you dream about someone who has passed away - someone you loved, a favorite pet, a personal hero - the person you dreamt about actually came to visit you. I rarely remember my dreams but when I do it's usually because I've been visited by my loved ones. Glad to see you posting again.

Linda R

Nancy Babcock,

I think you are correct. They are criss crossing the two situations. It looks like in the forum they have figured this out to be true also...That BELLE foaled today not LaVille Rouge.

### Thank you, Nancy, I really appreciate that, it means a lot, for my thoughts and hope for Barbaro and for me.

I don't remember Barbaro lining up his food but I think I remember them saying they lined up his peppermints so he had to pick them up from a ledge--gave him something to do--and if he dropped one, he wouldn't pick it up. He probably just called, "Oh, nurse..." (I could have distorted this whole story but that's the way I remember it.)

Very well said JCB.

####
I am not taking my bracelets off anytime soon. I have two, the red one "Believe in Barbaro" and the Lael colors from Sharon at barbarowristbands.com They both have great meaning to me....the Believe in Barbaro reminds me to believe in all he stood for (and still does). The Lael colors bracelet remind me that he was and is a winner, and the phrase "Live the Moment" helps me to do just that; to stop lamenting yesterday or worrying about tomorrow.

So, this FOB will be leaving her bracelets on for a long time to come and maybe until I'm meeting Barbaro and finally getting to put kisses on his nose!

Lynne-Barbaro's Friend (forever) in CA

LaVille Rouge is not due until spring according to the Jackson's.

Recommended reading- Steve haskins commentary "unhappy ending" on Bloodhorse.com. Very nice. Very true Jen

#####
I know this has been posted on the forum - but i can't find it - what is the best address to send condolences to the Jacksons?
Thanks in advance
Love, Joanne

Glad to hear Belle finally foaled and all is well! Colt or filly?

Re: our family here

A gentle reminder that our once-secluded little cyber village here is now being viewed by who knows how many worldwide--lots of publicity lately. And many posts are being copied and posted on other sites and in mainstream media. Alex's name is on the site and he has a good international reputation now.

This has been Barbaro Central for almost 9 months. While we each grieve in our own ways and comfort each other and express our thoughts, can we not fight with each other? Let's continue to show the world what decent, compassionate, wonderful people we really are.

I don't know whether this will help anyone who is feeling bad about the cremation, but maybe it will. For years, I was very anti-cremation. However, in the last few years, I have had two beloved Cockers die at age 14 under varying circumstances. My husband and I do not want to live in this townhouse forever. It occurred to me when the first one died, I certainly would not want to leave her behind. So I have had both of them cremated and have felt great peace of mind.

Also, someone might have addressed it earlier today, but I haven't had a chance to read everything yet...several folks suggested requesting a rose be named after Barbaro. I recall reading several times that he hated the roses he rec'd after winning the Kentucky Derby. Just a thought.

Lynda Pellitteri posted a link to this tribute on the NTRA site:

Barbaro Remembered

It is really worth seeing, for two reasons:

1) THERE IS A PHOTO OF BARABARO AS A FOAL.

2) The tribute is so respectful that it shows the Kentucky Derby footage but goes to black for the Preakness. NO BREAKDOWN FOOTAGE.

Thank you, Lynda, for calling attention to this lovely tribute.

Mary L in Ohio: Glad to see you as well. I have to tell you - I had not posted on this site for months. Always came on in the morning or sometime to check on Barbaro's updates at the top though. For some very strange reason though, I came on here FOR THE FIRST TIME in a long time on Monday morning and tried to provide some comforting words, even relating to God having his hands in this and doing "the right thing", well before any news of Barbaro being euthanized. I just felt it though, felt it was going to happen. Even though I was off the site and and following Barbaro, I came back, I came back the past couple of days because it is YOU people, Alex, and the rest who have made me feel better during the past few days. It is very comforting to read so many wonderful posts. I find it so positive. The trolls edge me a bit, but like Dr. Richardson said, there are good eggs and bad eggs - let's just keep putting the bad eggs on the bottom of the basket where they can stay "scrambled" in their own heads.

Good to see you....

Susan E ... I apologize. I think it is my post to which you are referring. I don't view it as "fighting," just making a point. Not everyone has to agree with everyone. Again, I apologize if I offended anyone.

This site is about Barbaro. Let's all try to remember that!

A precious new foal baby has arrived at Legacy Clydesdales and it's adorable!

http://www.marestare.com/legacy.htm

Alex, thank you so very much for all you do. The new picture of Barbaro is just wonderful.

I really hope all is well with you. May God Bless you Alex. I know this had been a great shock to you and all concerned. Hopefully someday our hearts won't be as heavy and we can somehow put a smile back on our face like in the past with ACN.
May we all try to have ACN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vonda ... you are right about the roses. To quote Barbaro ... THEY STEEEEEEEEENK!!!

I'd like to share a story with you. My mom is English, my dad was in the Air Force stationed overseas. They married in England and had my sister. A few months later my dad was transferred to a base in Michigan close to his family home. My parents and sister stayed at my grandmother's house for a few months until base housing was available. One Sunday morning, the entire family went to church but my mom stayed behind with my sister, they were the only ones in the house - or so my mom thought. My mom was on the couch, feeding my sister a bottle, she felt someone was there, looked up and there was a man standing in the dining room. My mom ran to the neighbor's house until the family returned. She described the man and the description she gave was of my dad's uncle who had passed in the house a year before. My mom had never seen a picture of him so there is no way she knew what he looked like. Because of this, I do believe in the after life.

###
SUSAN E - It's a boy! I was awake to see it and Mama Belle seemed to deliver him really fast. He is all legs and last night couldn't quite make it to his feet (legs kept going out from under him), but I just checked and he's up on all fours!

Linda; I will put it on here again because these posts do go away and this should always be on here.

Renee; We are not on the same page but that is OK I thank you for your support.

Everyone else;
God did not answer "our" prayers, he answered Barbaro's prayers........... Barbaro is very much in all of us and he always will be. I to this day always think of Slew, Big Red, SeaBiscut and all the rest.... They bring me joy...........

Dr. Richardson; You are absolutely amazing and I am soooooooooooooo proud of your strength and courage through all of this....

Alex; THANKS!!!!!! You rock and I hope that God brings peace to your world today......
Tribute To Barbaro
Champion of Hope

First Saturday in May, a charge fills the air,
In Kentucky they gather, a most splendid affair.
The Run for the Roses, mere hours away,
As twenty colts vie to be champion this day.

Some colts seem anxious, aware of the task,
Some balk and some bray, while some seem to bask.
But asleep in his paddock, a champion sublime,
The unconcerned Barbaro, enjoys some peacetime.

As post time draws near, and the horses are saddled,
The once sleeping Barbaro, appears to be rattled.
He starts to act up, his groom works to console,
In a moment the horse is brought under control.

The Post Parade finished, they load at the gate,
The unbeaten Barbaro wears number eight.
With seven to left, and eleven to right,
The start gates crash open, twenty youngsters take flight.

The front stretch is blazed in the blink of an eye,
One-hundred thousand faithful watch them rush by.
The field rounds the turn, down the backstretch they bound,
Halfway to the roses, halfway to the Crown!

Five furlongs cleared, and the noise starts to churn,
Moving faster and faster into the far turn.
The crowd starts to rise like a wave on the sea,
Which colt will move up, which one will it be?

Around the last turn and they charge into sight,
One horse pulls ahead, and seems up to the fight.
A thundering bay is now leading the field,
Digging in like a steam shovel, a champion revealed!

His rider has no need to go to the whip,
This magical colt has run his perfect trip.
The others are fading, as if they all know,
Today there's no way they can catch Barbaro!

The bay locomotive explodes to the line,
The next best has slipped seven full lengths behind!
A deafening roar now erupts from the fans,
Who all sense the magic they've watched from the stands.

A Derby performance unseen sixty years,
Has rekindled dreams that bring many to tears.
Twenty-eight years since the crown has been worn,
Twenty-eight years of dreams tattered and torn.

Nineteen brave contenders have given their all,
And nineteen contenders have taken a fall,
But now there is one for whom destiny waits,
In a blanket of roses, it's Barbaro the Great!

For weeks people speak of him breaking the drought,
His romp to the roses leaves little to doubt.
The shadow of Slew, of Big Red and Affirmed,
Will finally give way to perfection confirmed.

The Pimilico track is awash in the glow,
In the paddock sits larger-than-life Barbaro.
The undercard races tick down like a clock,
As the Preakness approaches the faithful take stock.

He's led from the paddock and joins the parade,
As thousands anticipate history made.
The gates are all loaded and all that remains,
Is a mile and sixteenth, and a seventh field tamed.

With millions now watching, a cruel twist of fate,
A single bay colt breaks alone from the gate.
An audible gasp echoes over the track,
As his rider fights hard just to hold the horse back.

To the amazement of all, the fortunes have changed,
For the great Champion Barbaro, and his fate prearranged.
He's led back around, and again loads the gate,
Can this champion regroup from a tragic mistake?

The gates are flung opened, they bolt down the track,
Barbaro breaks cleanly, and he's running mid-pack!
There's hope after all for this champion renowned,
To reel them all in before shutting them down!

But another groan rings out, with cries of despair,
Barbaro has pulled up, and dread fills the air.
With his right hind leg shattered, he struggles to run,
The pack draws away quickly, the dream is undone.

Six races finished, and six races won,
His only defeat, in a race never run.
But now a new challenge, a new field of strife,
Confronts this bold champion: a race for his life.

With the prayers of the faithful, and the odds stacked against,
His crestfallen owners spare no expense.
For his chance to survive this disastrous blow,
The New Bolton doctors do all that they know.

For eight months he battles through every travail,
As millions hold hope that he'll somehow prevail.
This horse with no rival upon the racetrack,
Continues to carry such hope on his back!

But every great champion faces the day,
When no more contenders stand in their way.
When no more mountains, exist for to move,
When finally, at last, there is nothing to prove.

With all of his races on earth finally done,
This bold, gallant hero continues to run.
With Big Red, Slew and Affirmed by his side,
His legacy: Hope! Barbaro did provide.

I LOVE YOU BARBARO AND YOU ARE WITH ME ALWAYS...........How ya doing? Are you guys racing or are you guys playing?????? Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh whatever your doing, it is surly because it is what makes you happy..............

Love Nina...................

###
JOANNE FRANK - Kennett Florist will forward cards to the Jacksons...

Jen: Good to see you too!

Alex,

Thanks for the update on the homepage, breath taking....

What ever you decide to do with this site (I hope it stays) I have appreciated all that you have done (my one stop source of info for 8 mo); however I understand how time consuming horses are and how much time it takes to manage this site.

Whatever you decide, I will respect your decision.

God Bless you.

##########

Article re a book about Barbaro - "Barbaro: America's Horse" by Shelley Fraser Mickel - due for April release from Simon & Schuster; may be moved up now. This sounds like a good one - the author says she talked to everybody who knew him, and met Barbaro personally as well. Don't know if you guys are aware of this book or not; if repetitious, excuse me please. CJ

http://www.gainesville.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070130/LOCAL/701300327/0/news

excerpts from article:

"In getting to know the owners�I met some of the most magnificent people and animal lovers," she said.

"They did everything for this horse for the right reasons. Their love for the animal and the sport of racing should be celebrated."

Mickle said her book, which is titled "Barbaro: America's Horse" and is set to be released in April by Simon and Schuster, details Barbaro's life from birth. Mickle said she interviewed everyone who handled him from the time he entered the world.

"You might say that I got the story straight from the horse's mouth," she said lightly, adding that she didn't include quite everything because "all horses need a few secrets."

She said getting to visit the horse was a moment she won't quickly forget.

"Barbaro is one of the most magnificent beings I have ever met and it took me a while to comprehend the greatness I was in the presence of," she said.

Sandie,
What happened was they would line up Barbaro's treats on his ledge, he would eat them one by one and not knock them off. He was a horse of many fine talents.

Since everyone is on the subject I guess I'll put my two cents in and I probably should just keep my fingers to myself (as in mouth shut).

Everyone one has there opinion as I have mine. This is not to say anyone's opinion is right or wrong just as it is not up to anyone to agree or disagree with the Jackson's decision.

Quite frankly, it's none of our business. Yes, the Jackson's were gracious enough to "share" THEIR beloved Barbaro with us. Yes, as much as we love him he was NOT our horse. He was and always will be the Jackson's.

Everything they did was done for THEIR Barbaro. Not for us, not for themselves. They did it because they loved THEIR horse.

So if you want to honor Barbaro, do it by respecting the Jackson's. Respect their decisions and please respect their privacy. After all, they are the ones who are truely suffering the loss of THEIR Barbaro.

A lot of comments on religion, faith etc today. Many of you probably don't listen to country music,living in Ky, I do. This song, by Brad Paisley lifts me whenever I hear it. I hope it will bring some peace to all of you , too.
I believe in God and I believe in Barbaro, both LIVE on...and Martita, so true, the good die young

When I Get To Where I’m Going

When I get to where I’m going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I’m gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly
I’ll land beside a lion
Run my fingers thru his mane
And I might find out what it’s like
To ride a drop of rain..

Chorus:
Yes when I get where I’m going
There’ll be only happy tears
I will shed the sin and sorrow I have carried all these years
And I’ll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yes when I get where I’m going
Don’t cry for me down here…

I’m going to walk with my grand dad
And he’ll match me step for step
And I’ll tell him how I’ve missed him every minute since he left
Then I’ll hug his neck

Chorus

So much pain and so much darkness
In this troubled life we live
So many questions I can’t answer
So much work to do…

But when I get to where I’m going
And I see my Master’s face
I’ll stand forever in the Light of his Amazing Grace

Repeat chorus

Pray for the Jacksons,Edgar,Dr Richardson & staff at NBC, all at Kenett Florist, Alex, Michael, Peter and for each other..the Barbaro Nation.
Together we can accomplish so much . We are all different, but we are a talented mix, writers, artists, lawyers, graphic designers, teachers, stay at home moms, retirees, jockeys, all creatures great and small mom & dads. We have a voice and we have a vote and we have a cause. We can make changes in Barbaro's name and for his honor. I have 5 horses, any of them at any time could be struck with laminitis, it is my worst fear. Let's drop all the petty stuff and work together. Be Like Barbaro, powerful, positive, a winner.

Barbaro lives on thru US...

Harriette Brillianthawk

Alex, heartfelt thanks for everything. Your update on your visit with Barbaro on Christmas Day, just over a month ago, stands as one of the sweetest stories this site has seen. It seems like so far in the past now. Thank you for taking good care of him, grooming, walking, and letting him enjoy the fresh air and sweet grass, and letting us hear about your private time with the Big Boss Horse. God bless you, Alex.

Update 1234: My sixth visit to Barbaro: Christmas Day.

Today I was to help out with Barbaro in the absense of Tom, the Jackson's farm manager. The plan was for me to go over, groom Barbaro and take him out to walk and graze. I had planned to arrive at 1 pm to do this, but surveying the clouds I decided to go a little earlier. I had also another poster to hang on the outside fence line (the first from overseas most likely) so I arrived at about 12:15 pm to hang the poster and go and see Barbaro.

When I entered the ICU I noticed a few people were there. It was Tom and Lucy (Mr. and Mrs. Jackson's daughter) and their four children (the grandchildren who visit quite often). I had met Tom before, so it was nice to be able to meet their entire family who seem to be very nice people (no surprise there). On duty in the ICU was Kathleen, Ray was also helping out.

I entered Barbaro's stall, put on his halter and tied him up in preparation for grooming. My idea was to give him a quick groom before he went out, and then a more thorough job once he had been outside. I set to work as I chatted away with Barbaro's visitors. I started by picking his front feet, then I gave Barbaro a quick once over with a body brush. He seemed to really enjoy it as I was brushing his forlock, something I would not have entirely anticipated. Anyway, it did not take me long to get him ready. I put a blanket on him (not one of the new gifts), put a shank on him, and then led him outside. Barbaro's visitors then left, and I was one-on-one with Barbaro for the first time while we were outside. It was very cool. He is so well behaved when he is outside, just very happy to be in the different environment. In his stall you better keep an eye on him, and make purposeful moves. Outside he is just much more relaxed. After grazing for five minutes it started a very light rain. I thought I would have to bring him in pretty quickly so I decided to have him do his walking, just to make sure he got that bit of exercise taken care of. He was so intent on his eating that it took me a little while to convince him to walk on, but once walking we did our five minutes pretty easily. By that time the drizzle had eased off and Barbaro went back to grazing. He was very happy. It was very peaceful. After about 45 minutes in total I decided to bring him in. The drizzle had returned and there was no need to get wet.

Once back in the stall and tied back up I went back to work grooming him. This time I used a curry comb and body brush. It was a time to be very careful with him, so I spent most of the brushing time with one hand on his halter, and my eyes locked on his eyes. Anyway, he cleaned up very well. I then picked out his feet again, finally attended to his head (light sponguing out of his nostrils and eyes followed by a wipe over with a wrag) and let him loose. Along the way I fed him a couple of carrots.

All in all another very pleasant visit. Chatted away with Kathleen and Ray a little. I left the ICU at 1:45 pm, so in all I spent about an hour and a half with Barbaro on christmas day. Not a bad way to get ready for a lovely (I hope) christmas dinner with Sue, Niall, Jayne and Mick, in about 20 minutes! It is now raining hard.

Update 1233: Barbaro remains comfortable on christmas day. I left him at 1:45 pm, report to follow.

update 3:15 pm, monday, december 25

##Renee, you posted above that the Jacksons and Dr. R. will be on Larry King tonite, are they on again?

Judy

Awwwwwe look at the cutie, the tail is going a mile a minute. Happy Foal.

A Great Idea of a Museum. And maybe each fan of Barbaro could buy a brick to help build it. That way there would be a part of us which would be there with him.

Dawn In Omaha --

From One Nebraskan To Another Thank You For Setting The Guy Straight With Your Letter. I Really Do Not Think Alot Of People Understand The Attachment That So Many Fans Of Barbaro Had With This Big Boss Hoss. He Was Our Inspiration To Begin The Fight For The Anti-Slaughter Bill, The Inspiration For Several Rescue And Adoption Sights, Raising Money For The Fight Against The Terrible Laminitus And Let So Many People Meet And Make Friends With Others. This Majestic Guy Was A Fighter And Made All Of Us Proud How He Was The One That Brought So Many People Together To Fight For The Rights Of Our 4 Legged Friends. So Many Wonderful Things Have Been Started Due To The FOB Club. I Miss Seeing The Sign ACN Each Day When I Come To This Sight. If Love Could Have Saved This Guy He Would Have Been Able To Have Gone Back To The Ranch Months Ago. God Bless Our Barbaro And God Bless All The Fans Of Barbaro.

Judy Ontario,
That was last night. Not tonight.

#Renee, thank you I thought so but I wasn't sure cause the date stamp is the 31st and the time differences confuse me.

Judy

Spirit Horse,
You know as well as I do, his Beautiful Spirit
is free and safe. He is as he was,no pain, comfortable and Standing on Perfect Legs.

###

Hi Ruth!

No, it was just a general post to all. I get edgy now when things flare up here because I've seen it go south so fast...always worries me, I am one of the Mother Hens around here.

Which is ironic considering my children are felines...

So if you want to honor Barbaro, do it by respecting the Jackson's. Respect their decisions and please respect their privacy. After all, they are the ones who are truely suffering the loss of THEIR Barbaro.

Posted by: doe at January 31, 2007 7:26 PM

==============================

Thank you Doe - my feelings exactly.
Who exactly are WE to dictate to anyone how to deal with their grief? It was so obvious on Larry King last night that Gretchen was hurting badly. And, whoever the moron was who asked about cloning - I sure hope it wasn't anyone from this site.

Do not Judge, lest ye be judged.

Judy,
It is a different Renee that made the post. I answered you. LOL

While the Jacksons owned Barbaro on paper, he truly does belong to all of us, emotionally- one cannot "own" love. It simply is.

ALEX-

Thanks to you for all you have done. I am especially pleased by the caption change on the main page.

I can't help but to check here. I haven't had much time to write, but have checked daily since the Preakness and finding this site. It has made a world of difference to be able to find reliable information and wonderful people doing good work in Barbaro's name.

Let's keep the spirit of doing good alive and kicking like Barabro at Fair Hill in his happiest days.

I miss him terribly. The only comfort is that he is no longer in any pain or confined to a broken body.

God Bless Barbaro ~ loved forever

(that said, these decisions, were theirs to make)

OH! I so love the idea of us purchasing the bricks for the museum!!!!!!

Magnificent idea!

My prayers are with all of you for comfort at this time and comfort for Barbaro. I wanted to share with you something that happened lastnight. It was a full moon, I looked up into the sky, I said a prayer for Barbaro for God to please watch over him in heaven. Just then brown and gold clouds were forming in front of the moon and moved below the moon. Then quickly the brown clouds formed into a brown horse fully formed,surrounded by the gold clouds it appeared to be in a leaping position, like a run and leap and it lasted for a minute and disappeared, I knew it was Barbaro's spirit and it was a beautiful site. When the horse formed I felt so much love from Barbaro. I thought to myself, Thank you Barbaro, I will love you always.
I just wanted to share that with you, he is in the heavens looking down at us, just watch the clouds at night, believe in miracles, believe in Barbaro, he is there in spirit and is full of love.
mary mi

Hello, Alex

Thank you for all your links and news. How are you doing, my friend? I worry about you. Hope your days are somewhat normal and occupy your thoughts. You offer so much to so many and are so multi-faceted, I hope that the turning wheels help to keep the sadness away.

Thank you so much for sharing your meeting with Dr. Anderson. I feel so bad for her as well. I also hope that through the site, we can support Barbaro's legacy, and continue to honor the Jacksons and NBC and Dr. Richardson, and TWR as well.

Hello Dear Friends

Hope you are all feeling a little less sad today and a little more inspired with a purpose, whether it be to perfect racetracks, to work to cure or at least manage laminitis, to abolish horse slaughter or to rescue, foster and adopt horses. Or whatever makes you feel better. It's a long shot, I know, but I hope you all are getting past the acute, raw stages of grief.

I read that Barbaro was cremated. I found that somewhat comforting. Don't know why, particularly, but it was, just the same. Am interested to know what will be done to memorialize and celebrate his life. Whatever the Jacksons elect to do, I hope they have peace and comfort.

Thought that the Larry King interview was great. The Jacksons are first class. I loved the flowers behind them I bet their home is ablaze in color from all manner of flowers. Dr. Richardson looked so tired. I hope he gets some rest and comes to some kind of accord with himself soon.

My DB and I have talked a lot about him the past few days. He feels particularly empathetic, as he knows and understands all too well the mentality of the hard-working, under-appreciated, under-respected and always second-guessed veterinarian. Sometimes the second-guessing comes from one's self, but as in Dr. Richardson's case, because he's so visible, it comes from those who really have no clue. My DB has said all along, it doesn't matter how hard you've worked, your successes along the way, or what you achieve from a "learning process" standpoint, in the final analysis, usually a self-analysis, the final outcome is what stands out. He has said over and over again, "that poor guy is going through hell on a high burner". Having lived through some of his own experiences, ones he describes as "failures" because that's how he views them, no matter how hard he's worked, they really take their toll. His have not been been so visible. Dr. Richardson has the whole world scrutinizing him. Someone wrote that she or he could give him a hug. Me, too. DB too. He was watching him last night and this morning (I missed that interview) and kept saying, "been there, Dude..been there" We hope (geez I've used that word a lot) that he comes away realizing there are a lot of brilliant young people who have been inspired by him who what to "grow up to be just like him". Maybe some willl even be better, hard as that may be to realize, and I bet he would be happy to step back and watch that happen. To say the very least, he has done so much to bring veterinary medicine to the forefront and to public awareness. My DB and his friend here, another orthopedist, have cried bitter tears for Dr. Dean, knowing the pain he has and is enduring now, especially because he lost his best little buddy. And life has to go on.

One day at a time. Taking baby steps now. Wondering why I never bought stock in Kleenex. Visualizing that great things will come from this, and that somehow one horse knows that his legacy will be huge, and that he's galloping across Heaven's infinite green pastures with so many other great horses, and that God is smiling.

Love to all
Cheryl

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/31/sports/othersports/31barbaro.html

Another New York Times article - worthy of noting.

Mary, that's beautiful!

Pam, your photography is lovely~

Anna in TX,
Nice words.

General comment:
People are upset and are allowed to express their feeling during a time of grief. The best thing is if you don't agree, don't comment. Emotions are raw right now. I know I have gone from raw emotion to numb right now.

I see the Troll climed out of the garbag again. We need to find a higher one with a permanent seal lid. What Trash. NO manners.

One thing that is great about America is that First Amendment right to have (and express) your opinions. Isn't that what those brave men and women in the military fight for on a daily basis? I come to this site occasionally and have to admit in the past couple of days it has given me some solace knowing that so many people find a horse a beautiful animal and loved him so much and have mourned him. In this day and age, love of any kind can be so rare.

That Linda woman that posted a bit earlier obviously has some "issues" but she did address some issues that concern me as well. We raise Palomino Quarter Horses but I grew up with Thoroughbreds as a kid in Texas. My grandfather stood a stallion that was a grandson of Count Fleet for several years in the 1960's. I knew the horse racing of the 70's and early 80's and it was truly not kind to the animals. Doping was rampant in those days, shocking devices, "soring" horses you name it. I think the TB racing industry has come a long way since then --- but it still has a long way to go.

Doping is still a large issue but because of these incredibly horrible breakdowns that were so very public this year(Barbaro, Pine Island) the most serious issue at the forefront of the industry is the number of breakdowns that are STILL occurring at an alarmingly frequent rate. Nobody writes about the $10,000 claiming horses that are put down on a weekly basis due to injuries sustain in races or training. That woman is pretty much correct about the 2 or so number a week. What we don't know is what the numbers REALLY are for horses in training. Japan has finally tried to get a "number" and it is even higher for horses in training than for actual races.

What she said about the insurance companies is probably not far off the mark. I am certain the Jacksons had him insured for loss-of-use as well as mortality. They seem to be very nice people, but they are millionaires and didn't get their money by being dumb. Fighting with insurance companies can be absolutely horrendous. I am certain there is a darker side of the whole series of events that led up to him being finally euthanized.

We had to destroy a 6-year-old QH stallion three years ago due to a broken leg. We had a $25,000 mortality policy on him as well as a loss-of-use as a breeding stallion that discounted out to about $50,000. The insurance company about didn't let us put him down! You have to have their okay to do so or they won't pay the claim. They kept wanting to try this procedure, and that procedure, etc. It was a nightmare. They had no feeling for the horse, just the $$$, and this was a piddly-little policy in comparison to what I am certain Barbaro was insured for. Big Business is cold and it was involved in this case as I am sure it was in Barbaro's.

Let's move forward and put our energies into trying to do some good. That's what should come of all this. Campaign your representative(s) (whether it be government or horse-industry related) for tougher doping laws and the synthetic surfaces that do seem to be better for reducing catastrophic injuries.

Many of you have written that you have donated to laminitis research. Thank you. That disease doesn't affect just thoroughbreds but horses from all breeds and walks of life. It is just as important to save a little kids Shetland pony from this horrible disease as it is a multi-million dollar race horse.

And remember this above all else, these race horses don't ask to "go to the races". (Barbaro didn't ask the Jacksons to send him to M. Matz for training so he could run in the Triple Crown races). Human beings put them on a racetrack with jockeys on their backs. Human beings need to be responsible for keeping them safe and sane as possible. There are a lot of good owners, trainers, jockeys and horse people out there. Lots of good. Let's work on getting what remains of the bad out of the horse industry.

I have a 3' x 4' poster of Barbaro looking down on me in my office. I loved him too.

Horses are owned by no one...we are merely given the privelege of being their caregivers and companions. Horses belong to God, since He created them all.

It really is amazing what his spirit is doing, I had dreams of him all night last night. I woke up knowing I had been with him I remember kissing his nose and hugging him while I spoke to him quietly.He made me smile. The True Spirit of Barbaro.

############

another FOB on what I posted earlier:

C Jaffe -- I hear you on the talk about euthanasia, then the talk of the horse slaughter legislation on Larry King. The difference in the caring, compassionate, peaceful way they said farewell to Barbaro, then how the SH industry treats horses. I wonder if this comparison is something to go forward with, in our discussions with our representatives, if it would be appropriate, acceptable? It would sure be powerful and help show the true definition of humane euthanasia.

Posted by Susan in Saratoga at January 31, 2007 3:02 PM

I sure think so. Others? CJ

#Renee A. I didn't know there was another Renee here, I'll be careful. But thanks for answering.

Judy

All, candles are winking out rapidly.

Please don't let their lights go out.

Judy

oh no. I was doing o.k. keeping it together - I was on Upenn's site about to compose a condolence message and Jim Croce's beautiful song "Operator" came on the radio. I can't do the message right now.

I am crying again. :(

If any of you posting here are truly having dreams of Barbaro, I suggest that some psycho-therapy is in order. Anyone that deeply and disturbingly affected, seriously needs some professional help. Get help. Seriously. This is not a put-down, so don't take it the wrong way.

i just lit a candle

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba

Ignore the troll - Be Like Barbaro.

Thank you Alex for updated your Start Page!! I love the picture and the new saying "Barbara Remembered"

I haven't been able to get on line much today. Where can I find this "Start Page"?

I have to agree with alot of you, I feel much worse today than I did on monday.

CANDLE ALERT!

From nearly 20,000 on Monday B's candles are down to just over 3,000. Keep lighting.

Ro & Brady

One might observe that the overwhelming urge to criticize others for what they see, believe, or feel is a cry for help, in itself.

Shiny Eagle Woman with horse wings: hmmmmm, the name alone speak volumes.....an eagle woman with horse wings???? who needs psycho-therapy??? Go away and allow these people to grieve however they want. If they have dreams, it means they are thinking about a horse they took deeply into their hearts. Some people recall dreams, some do not. The next time you have a dream about something, anything - seek psycho-therapy - seriously.

thank you mary for that beautiful posting of barbaro. yes it is all about the love he brought to all of us.

Chris Byers,
I knew Jim personally. His music is beautiful and touches my heart still today. Sorry you are crying. Hugs.

Susan E ... Thank you!! I am a "Barbaro Mommy" and it bothers me when people are denied the right to express their own beliefs by those who do not happen to agree with them. We all miss Barbaro very much. We are all dealing with it differently. I don't know if I will ever be the same again. He has made such an impact on my life. I come here for comfort and solace. Thank you and all of the FOB's for providing that for me!

God Bless Precious Barbaro!
May the "Spirit of Barbaro" live on forever!

Back for lunch and a place to cry...Ohhh Barbaro how I love to say his name. I like all of us here had his name, Barbaro in my prayers. I remember praying the day of the Preakness for his victory and then latter that day for his life.

There are so many pieces to remember with our journey with Barbaro. I have never owned a horse only love them all of them, the wild mustangs, the Arabs,the Lippanzers, the horses of the Pony Express and those that the Australians so cherished in WW1. My grandfather was a large animal vet, a Buckeye like Dr. R and helped the man who started Darby Dan so maybe it is in my genes.

I keep thinking how the week before the Derby I decided Barbaro was my feller as I read about him and saw pictures of him. That amazing piece of the story, Mr.Matz who survived the plane crash in the Iowa corn fields. He saves those kids and brings them as adults to see the Derby...amazing the interconnections of Barbaro...

The Jackson's how they shared him with us in his recovery when they really did not have to do that, and whatever the choose is their choice. I am so grateful for Mrs. J's statement about grief being the price we pay or loving. That is another piece Barbaro taught us in today's world to love from the heart and the gut. I think it was Ghandi who said a country is judged by how it treats it's animals.

I hope one day I can have a horse of my own or one to care for, there is nothing like their smell and their being. Some of my best memories were those on horseback. I wish they all, all of them can find the care and love that Barbaro had and has.

Rosemarie. Thanks.

I just lit a candle. Come on you FOB's. Let's not extinguish his flame.

###
Renee Antaya..If you were talking about my comments I'm sorry if I offended you or anyone else in trying to respect the Jackson's. The point I was trying to make is that everyone does have their opinion and it doesn't mean that anyone's opinion is right or wrong.

I'm not a troll and I do with all my heart love Barbaro. I just think the Jackson's should be respected right now.

So out of respect for the Jackson's and everyone else on this site, I will now keep my opinions to myself.

Thanks Alex for everything and I hope you have continued success with this site.

Bobby I will always love you. Kisses on your nose baby boy and run like the wind.

Just checking in on everything this afternoon.

I am really losing it at work- very upset when I came to this website, which is saved as a favorite and saw, "Barbaro Remembered" at the top and the link to the video to view Barbaro walking without his cast.

That was the best day- seeing beautiful Barbaro, walk without his cast!! I cried from sheer happiness- it was a magnificent sight; our boy being able to walk on his leg, without a cast!!! . Dr. R said the walk would get better, the leg would get stronger, but to think how much Barbaro accomplished, being able to walk on that leg was inspirational.. I felt so proud of him.. as proud as if he won another Kentucky Derby. People were sad to see his leg and his walk but this made him even more beautiful to me. It showed some of the things I love about Barbaro- his unbelievable courage, spirit, toughness and never ending battle to keep going- not knowing what "I can't do it" means.

We will love you forever, Barbaro and miss you always. You are my hero.

Love,
Daphne and Pee

Shiny Eagle Woman,
It is better to dream about Barbaro and his peaceful beauty, than to dream about dark ugly people.

CSPAN is on, and Senator Mikulski is speeking on the clone animals for human consumption. USDA ANG.are trying to pass the bill and she is trying to stop it.Hmmm
She don't want to eat clone cow, sheep are pig.
Why can't they get to our bill, and save the horses?

###

Please do not let Barbaro's candles ever die out...the candles are low...please light up...KEEP THE ETERNAL FLAME FOR BARBARO...HE DESERVES THIS!!!!!!

Chris Byers: The whole troll alert thing - I try, but I just have to post back at times!! These people are so annoying. The biggest thing which makes them look foolish is: this site is obviously for BARBARO and horse lovers. So, WHY comes on here to say negative things to people. It certainly shows they have NO interests of their own or care about much. What a tragedy to have to live that way.....mean, ignorant, incapable of feeling or understanding - maybe we should put them out of their misery - sounds like they are suffering..... :-)

####
FsOB
One of the things we know from last night on Larry King is that Mrs. Jackson had the composure and presence of mind to connect their horse and his legacy to HR503 and S311.
As Alex wrote above:
"Mrs. Jackson made a strong case for pushing the anti horse slaughter bills through, so I hope we can take that signal and follow up by calling our own congressman and senators."

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

I have been wondering if we could do something to say "thank you" to Dr. Richardson. Not just a thank you for his hard work and skill but for his caring. I can't help but recall that happy day he was photographed taking Barbaro outside for a walk. I believe that is the first time I saw him with a big big smile. So, I was thinking of a happy "thank you", something I (and probably others with golfers in the family) have said "Wouldn't it be fun to give him a round of golf with Tiger". Does anyone like the idea? Could we pull it off? The cost would be a plane ticket and green fees. I for one don't think I will feel better until the day he can get that big, big smile back.

#######
am reposting this one from last batch; haven't seen anothing else said re this, and I believe it bears repeating if you've missed it.

#########
My favorite part of the Jane Smiley NY Post editorial:

And then, during his medical saga, he showed that he was intelligent, too. According to a friend of mine who talked to trainer Michael Matz in the summer, Barbaro knew when he needed some pain relief -- he would stand by the sling and shake it until they put him in it, and when he was tired of it, he would shake himself so that it rattled, signaling he was ready to be taken out. And then he would go to his stall and lie down.

WOW - We knew that he let them know when he wanted to go in the sling - but this is the first I see of exactly how he worked out the nonverbal communication. Like my cat who rattles his empty food dish. What a smart, good boy.

I loved reading this, thank you Alex again and again for making all of these wonderful tidbits available to us. Indebted forever. CJ

Posted by C. Jaffe at January 31, 2007 2:41 PM

my sweetie is mailing my postcards to the Senate out today.
So we're on it, Friar Tuck.

doe,
I was not refering to your post. Please don't feel you have to stop posting due to anyone's opinion. We are all entitled to our opinions.I hope this helps. Take Care. I would address you by name. You are not a Troll.

I did NOT mean to imply from my previous post that the "Barbaro Remembered" page wasn't beautiful. Alex, it is beautiful- poignant- just makes it all too real!!

Alex, wonderful job providing us with all this great information about Barbaro- a celebration of his life. My heart goes out to you, doing this when your are mourning Barbaro, as well!!!

Love,
Daphne

doe,
The troll is Linda, who has been upsetting us since Monday. Just wanted you to know.

SUE M: I feel as you do about Dr. R's suffering. I knew from the moment he had to put Barbaro down, that his grief would be enormous.

I doubt that he's had this LONG and CLOSE of a relationship with any other patient that he's tried to save. I remember, too, him saying recently, before Barbaro died, but after he had these latest setbacks, that horses that make it this long, usually go home.

With Barbaro progressing so well, for such a long time, I think that even Dr. Richardson -- despite the fact that he always said publically, that Barbaro was not "out of the woods" -- actually began to relax and to BELIEVE inside, that Barbaro was "out of the woods". Otherwise, he would not have been entertaining Barbaro's release.

When the latest setbacks came so suddenly...one right after the other...with no "breathing space" in between...it was an emotional shock to him. Even though he knew that could happen, by this time he wasn't really EXPECTING it to happen. Whereas early on, he expected anything and everything to happen. I think he was truly caught off guard -- emotionally.

The scientific "doctor" part of him understood and reacted to what was happening to Barbaro, but he had to put the emotional "human" side of him on the "back burner" in order to deal with the severity of the medical issues confronting Barbaro. When the time came to put him down, he went through the motions of getting it done -- because it's his job -- but now the ENORMITY and FINALITY of the LOSS of his close friend is setting in, and taking its toll on him emotionally.

This is probably going to be much harder for Dr. Richardson than he ever thought it would be. For one thing, he's probably second-guessing some of the choices he made. He said in the press conference that he made mistakes...that he'd be able to do better if another horse came in with the same injuries...so this has got to be a CRUSHING BLOW for him.

I think Dr. Richardson and Barbaro were "soul mates", so to speak, who probably had been together in another life. When they came together in this life, their souls "recognized" each other. They worked together as one mind, one heart. Now one of them has lost the other, and must go on alone.

There's a poem I heard long ago, that seems a fitting description of what Dr. R. might be feeling about his special relationship with Barbaro -- even if some of these feelings are on a subconscious plane. I know this is how I feel, and I haven't even had a personal relationship with Bobby. I will share it here. If anyone knows who wrote it, please let me know:

I do believe that God above,
created you for me to love.
He picked you out from all the rest,
because he knew I loved you best.

I once had a heart, tender and true,
but now it's gone, from me to you.
Take care of it, as I have done,
for you have two, and I have none.

If I go to Heaven, and you're not there,
I'll carve your name on a Golden Stair,
so all the angels above can see,
just what a darling you've been to me.

Gifts for Dr. Richardson?
How about a professionally made video/DVD about his time with Barbaro?
Alex has lots of media contacts.
I will contribute to the cost.
Just another random thought.

Alex - as always, thank you for all the articles. The last couple of days must have been difficult for you. I hope it helps to know we all care about you.

Alex, thank you for telling us about your conversation with Gary Stevens. It is so nice to hear how admired and respected our Bobby is.

The linked articles are good to read , too.

My Dear Sweet Friends of Barbaro...we are all suffering a very great loss but last evening as I lay crying myself to sleep I thought about our prayers and what we had prayed .....

if I remember correctly we prayed for right and perfect healing........

really there was only one way that could happen for Barbaro.......

OUR PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED ...GOD DID LISTEN

Barbaro did get his perfect healing...today he runs in paradise as beautiful and perfect as the day he was born ....It is not quite what we wanted but now I know in my heart it was selfish to expect him to go on and I won't elaborate on that....I have cried many tears over this and it is my opinion as a cancer survivor !!! GOD doesn't make mistakes and heaven is a reward and not a punishment....

Barbaro I know that WE ARE THE MIRACLE!!!!
WE BELIEVE in YOUR LEGACY !!!WE WILL CONTINUE...

I will meet you face to face someday for that is God's promise to all who BELIEVE !!!!

KISSES and HUGS SPECIAL PEOPLE....rest for strength cometh in the morning

(((((((ALEX)))))))) ((((((((FOB'S)))))))))))

Cheryl Jones at January 31, 2007 7:44 PM - Thank you and your DB for the veterinary perspective. I think we all suspected the stress but Dr. Richardson seemed so capable of handling it all. My sympathies go out to him especially.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

########
Another repost from last batch:

######## FOB FOAL WATCH at MHR

http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages/?msg=4475.1

New thread at the Forum - TWO babies expected; one "any minute" basically, with a CONTEST for guessing the sex and date of birth; the other in a few months. Pics of expectant mamas Rosie and Misty are up. These are the pregnant mares that the FOBs expressly requested/directed MHR to buy at the October auction in Oregon. These are horses that Barbaro saved. These are

Babies being born because of Barbaro.

Rosie's baby, who's due "any minute," will bear the name Bobbie's Lil Angel, while Misty's baby is to be Bobbie's Spirit.

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

Hope Peace Love Music & RESPECT - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother & Pleasure's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL)

Posted by C. Jaffe at January 31, 2007 2:13 PM

In discussing this with another FOB, I said, these babies are as close to being Barbaro's as they could possibly be without his DNA. Seriously. These mares were saved, and their foals are being born, because of Barbaro. CJ

Is it just me or was anyone else upset last night when Larry King and CNN kept saying that... Barbaro has been "Put To Death". Like he was a serial killer on death row or something. They even had on the trailer (bottom of the screen)"Barbaro Put To Death". Did anyone else find this disturbing? I mean say "Put Down" or "Euthanized" which in King's defense he also said several times but that trailer at the bottom of the TV screen was troubling to me and they man put it in that context several times. I guess that is what happens when the media are not comprised of horse people.

ALEX, THANKS!!
YOU HAVE SO MUCH GREAT STUFF!!! I'M STILL WIPING THE TEARS AWAY, SO I'LL HAVE TO SAVE THIS STUFF AND READ IT WHEN I FEEL A BIT BETTER ABOUT MR. BARBARO. HOW EXCITING TALKING TO GARY STEVENS, I LOVE HIM, HE'S A GREAT GUY AND ALWAYS TALKED SO HIGHLY ABOUT BARBARO TOO.

MRS. JACKSON WAS GREAT LAST NIGHT TALKING ABOUT HORSE SLAUGHTER IN THIS COUNTRY-- BIG KUDOS!!

I MISS BARBARO!!!

LOTS OF LOVE & PRAYERS FOR BARBARO & EVERYONE,
CHERYL G

I've seen a couple of posts wondering why (or uncomfortable with) cremation. I have no way of knowing why the Jacksons made the choice but if it was most comfortable for them, that's certainly something we can all respect. I'm totally comfortable with the idea of cremation and, especially in this case. I can't tell you how relieved I am that no ghoul or scoundrel will try to obtain some of Barbaro's DNA or remains for whatever purpose. It's much, much better this way.

Also, I'm hoping they do the museum and memorial marker at Lael Farm. That's the grass he loved and I believe he should be returned to it. Then again, they haven't asked me.

I'm doing better. I hope all of you are too.

Blessings and Peace,

Autumnchough

I came across this today and thought you all might appreciate it as much as I did..

Champion of Hope

By Derek Granger

First Saturday in May, a charge fills the air,
In Kentucky they gather, a most splendid affair.
The Run for the Roses, mere hours away, As twenty colts vie to be champion this day.

Some colts seem anxious, aware of the task,
Some balk and some bray, while some seem to bask.
But asleep in his paddock, a champion sublime,
The unconcerned Barbaro, enjoys some peacetime.

As post time draws near, and the horses are saddled, The once sleeping Barbaro, appears to be rattled.He starts to act up, his groom works to console, In a moment the horse is brought under control.

The Post Parade finished, they load at the gate,
The unbeaten Barbaro wears number eight.
With seven to left, and eleven to right,
The start gates crash open, twenty youngsters take flight.

The front stretch is blazed in the blink of an eye,
One-hundred thousand faithful watch them rush by.
The field rounds the turn, down the backstretch they bound,
Halfway to the roses, halfway to the Crown!

Five furlongs cleared, and the noise starts to churn,
Moving faster and faster into the far turn.
The crowd starts to rise like a wave on the sea,
Which colt will move up, which one will it be?

Around the last turn and they charge into sight,
One horse pulls ahead, and seems up to the fight.
A thundering bay is now leading the field,
Digging in like a steam shovel, a champion revealed!

His rider has no need to go to the whip,
This magical colt has run his perfect trip.
The others are fading, as if they all know,
Today there's no way they can catch Barbaro!

The bay locomotive explodes to the line,
The next best has slipped seven full lengths behind!
A deafening roar now erupts from the fans,
Who all sense the magic they've watched from the stands.

A Derby performance unseen sixty years,
Has rekindled dreams that bring many to tears.
Twenty-eight years since the crown has been worn,
Twenty-eight years of dreams tattered and torn.

Nineteen brave contenders have given their all,
And nineteen contenders have taken a fall,
But now there is one for whom destiny waits,
In a blanket of roses, it's Barbaro the Great!

For weeks people speak of him breaking the drought,
His romp to the roses leaves little to doubt.
The shadow of Slew, of Big Red and Affirmed,
Will finally give way to perfection confirmed.

The Pimilico track is awash in the glow,
In the paddock sits larger-than-life Barbaro.
The undercard races tick down like a clock,
As the Preakness approaches the faithful take stock.

He's led from the paddock and joins the parade,
As thousands anticipate history made.
The gates are all loaded and all that remains,
Is a mile and sixteenth, and a seventh field tamed.

With millions now watching, a cruel twist of fate,
A single bay colt breaks alone from the gate.
An audible gasp echoes over the track,
As his rider fights hard just to hold the horse back.

To the amazement of all, the fortunes have changed,
For the great Champion Barbaro, and his fate prearranged.
He's led back around, and again loads the gate,
Can this champion regroup from a tragic mistake?

The gates are flung opened, they bolt down the track,
Barbaro breaks cleanly, and he's running mid-pack!
There's hope after all for this champion renowned,
To reel them all in before shutting them down!

But another groan rings out, with cries of despair,
Barbaro has pulled up, and dread fills the air.
With his right hind leg shattered, he struggles to run,
The pack draws away quickly, the dream is undone.

Six races finished, and six races won,
His only defeat, in a race never run.
But now a new challenge, a new field of strife,
Confronts this bold champion: a race for his life.

With the prayers of the faithful, and the odds stacked against,
His crestfallen owners spare no expense.
For his chance to survive this disastrous blow,
The New Bolton doctors do all that they know.

For eight months he battles through every travail,
As millions hold hope that he'll somehow prevail.
This horse with no rival upon the racetrack,
Continues to carry such hope on his back!

But every great champion faces the day,
When no more contenders stand in their way.
When no more mountains, exist for to move,
When finally, at last, there is nothing to prove.

With all of his races on earth finally done,
This bold, gallant hero continues to run.
With Big Red, Slew and Affirmed by his side,
His legacy: Hope! Barbaro did provide.

I called my Senators today in Barbaro's honor. If Mrs. Jackson can do it right now-then so can I! It's the very least we can do for Barbaro's legacy....
Marlene

You know how we've all decided that Barbaro was an "old soul". I've decided that chocolate labs are young souls, or souls-in-training. Souls just starting out must begin as chocolate labs.

Can you tell that my sweetie choc lab Bruno is misbehaving today?

Smiles to all FOBs.

Missing you dear heart!Your spirit lives on, it's all around and in our hearts. Be at peace, you now have some new friends and old ones as well.Have you had chance to see FOG??? Loving you, sweet dreams, vicki

I need to go away for a few days to attend the funeral of a dear friend.

Thank you Shelley A and Debra WI for reminding us that if Mrs. Jackson can manage to tell the whole world about the slaughter issue in what is, for her, a very sad time, we can do the same. Please remember to touch base with your legislators, and to spread the word.

Also, please remember that, as a community, we have a tendency to squabble once we have had a day or day to absorb anything new, good or bad. Please continue to pull together and to support one another respectfully. You are all such dear, wonderful people.

And do ignore anyone who comes here specifically to disrupt our mourning. If you react, that is exactly what they want.

Love to all.

Doe, please don't leave. You give us all so much. We're all still raw here, in different ways...

CJ--thank you for all of your posts. You always have something good. Thank you for being YOU all these months together here--and for helping me deal with my poor Felix.

I love the idea of doing something special for Dr. Richardson. My heart just aches for him. When I was younger I wanted to be a vet but knew then I could not handle it. I admire and respect vets more than I can say.

A little whimsy...it's May 2009 and Bobby's baby brother stand in the winner's circle at Belmont Park, being crowned Triple Crown Champion. Edgar is on his back, patting his neck with one hand and pointing at him with the other, to say "HE did it!" The champ is surrounded by the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, Michael and DeeDee Matz, Peter and Kim Brette, Kathy Anderson--and Alex Brown.

Marilyn/CA,
Please take care. I am so sorry.

Maribel ... God Bless You! I, too, am a cancer survivor. Actually, I am a two-time cancer survivor! I echo your words and your sentiments. Thank you for putting into words what I could not!

May the "Spirit of Barbaro" live forever!

I meant JUNE 2009. My bad. Brain still not working quite right...

#####

Kate, I agree. "Put to death" was very strange.

BECKY: That was WONDERFUL! But...way too sad for me right now. These things keep re-opening the wounds in my heart and soul. But Thank You, b/c it truly is MAGNIFICENT...just like BARBARO.

Sheila, thank you for the chocolate smiles :)

Marilyn in Cali, I'm sorry for your loss.

DEAREST BARBARO -

A STATEMENT JUST IN FROM SENATOR LANDRIEU -

"Barbaro was an inspiration not only to equestrians and horse lovers,
but to all Americans. I hope that his memory will serve as added
motivation in our continued fight for the safety and welfare of horses,
and his legacy will serve as an inspiration to get the Virgie S. Arden
American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act passed through Congress."

Senator Landrieu

Alex,
Thank you, thank you for the updated home page and photo...it's breathtaking and epitomizes Barbaro's unparalleled (at least in my opinion!) beauty. Words can't adequately express how grateful I am to be able to come here and read posts, share my grief, and learn new info. about Barbaro and horses in general. You're the best!!! Hope you're alright, or as alright as can be expected.

Kelly

To My Barbaro Family:

Another tough day....he's always on my mind.

Making my $29 donation to Laminitis Foundation today. I know this was addressed, but where should cards be sent for M/M Jackson and assume
NBC to others.
What wonderful ideas have been offered. I was making a list so as not to forget anything:
Barbaro Memorial Garden (tree, garden, bench, plaque).
Run for Barbaro (T-Shirts)
Postage Stamp
Bumper Sticker
Barbaro Memorial Building (buy bricks)
Donation Stand @ Derby / Preakness (one year anniversary for Barbaro) - rememberance book to sign and presented to Jacksons

Don't know if I missed anything; let me know
Any suggestions on how to coordinate everthing
so everyone can participate and all gets done?
You know, like having a central sign up location or who our go to person is? We all want to contribute even if we are all over the country.
Thanks to all for joining together to continue Barbaro's wonderful journey forward. He has given us so much inspiration to help us do what needs to be done - and give back our love to him in this way.

My 9 year old grandson wants to help too- asked if he could do a fundraiser for Barbaro Fund / Laminitis research at his school. Barbaro has even touched the children in his greatness. I will help with information about "our angel now" and his ordeal and what we need to do.

Please include me in anything I can do to help and contribute to the memorials.

A gathering together to meet would be wonderful.
Such positive energy and love in one place to send to Barbaro.

Marcia in Ohio

To my fellow FOB's ... just wanted to let you know that when I went home for lunch today I picked up my Barbaro Beany Baby and gave him a sweet kiss on his beautiful forehead. May sound strange, but it made me feel better!

Gone, but certainly not forgotten!

THANKS RUTH STACEY....you must be one tough lady!!!
But I know your heart is in the right place!!!!!!!
GOD loves YOU and so DO I....HUGS..

Gotta go out and get my VIA Rail ticket cause I'm going to have lunch with our very own Lillian Petroff on Friday...."Praise the Lord and Pass the carrots" I'm going to give her a very big huge HUG from ALL FOB'S and I hope I get one in return...

THANK YOU SWEET BOY..for ALL MY SPECIAL FRIENDS !!

LOVE TO ALL THE BARBARO NATION...back later!!!

Hello all...

I had to force myself to work today and not sit here scrolling through comments. Just wanted to say hi and experience that good feeling that comes from being here with all of you. I just couldn't handle another day of crying nonstop.

Someone spoke about the "crawl" on the Larry King show last night..the local NBC news/NY station called it "Misery Ended." I was really ripped at that. Barbaro was NOT in "misery" at any time and even at the end, he had painkillers to get him through the final rough spots. There is just such general stupidity out there in the non-horse public. All those cliches we've heard for years. But I can't fight every fight. I'd rather work on stopping horse slaughter.

Alex, thanks for the Gary interview. He is such an intelligent guy. I continue to feel that Dr. R is being taken by surprise by the depth of his feelings. I think the Big Guy really got to him. I have a printout of one of the more recent pix of him next to Bobby, where Bobby has his head turned a bit and a real cute/sly look in his eye. Dr. R is grinning from ear to ear. Seeing that, I just can't believe that Barbaro is gone. He seems so full of life.

Will check in later. Hope FOBs are doing better today.

Thank you, Renee, Anna, everyone. She was the loveliest person. I'll tell you a little when I get back. I'm going now. xoxo

Ruth Stacey,
I hugged and kissed mine last night and rubbed his hooves.

Loretta A: It is tough. It brought tears to my eyes and made me hug my horse just a little harder today.

My heart aches..

Alex,Thanks for sharing your conversation with Gary Stevens, I have always liked him!

Ruth,

That is not strange at all. I have slept with mine the last few nights and held mine tightd as I watched Larry King, kissing his nose the whole time.
So if you are, lord what does that make me! LOL!!

Karen - TN

Jane in CT,
I hope you are OK?

Renee ... Barbaro will never be more than a "forehead kiss and a hoof rub" away. Always close in spirit!

Barbaro's body was no longer at New Bolton. "We cremated him," Jackson said. "I assume it's been done."

Gee, I wonder what day that took place.

So where will his ashes go?

I'm all in favor of cremation...that's the way I want to go... but I thought the Jacksons would want to bury Barbaro on their farm and keep him close to them. I wonder if they'll bury his ashes.

Does anybody know?

Many thanks Alex for posting all those articles. The article "Bottomless Heart" really spoke to me and I emailed the author telling her that I would love to see her do an article about horse slaughter at some point.

I really think Dr. Richardson did as good a job or better with Big B as anyone could have. The problems were just insurmountable. If a horse doesn't have healthy legs it can spell tragedy. My bottom line is us working for better conditions for racing, especially racing them later when they are four years old and their bones are fully formed.

Bless all the people here! I appreciate you all so much! My grief and sadness are lifting but it will take awhile to process it all and be myself again.

Here is a link to a passage from the new book coming out on Barbaro:

http://www.bloodhorse.com/pdf/KingoftheDerby.pdf

Wonderful reading....

Debbie K

Hello sweet Prince in Heaven, I know your out there running free from pain and suffering. Even though you left this earth, I know your in a better place now with all your friends. Say "hello" to Fog,Pine Island,Saint Liam,Seabiscuit,Ruffian and everyone else. You will never leave my heart and soul Big guy. Hugs and kisses. See you someday.
May God comfort all of us FOB and All Barbaro's love ones.
Thank you Alex for everything.

Alex: Thank you for the interview with Gary Stevens, and the articles. I also love the picture of Barbaro on the home page. Just Beautiful. I hope you are doing ok and have been worried about you - I have reread your posts on your visits with B - What special times those were that you shared with all of us - Please let KAth A. know we are thinking of her - Knew it had to be very hard on her as well.

Lisa in Colorado

#######

LINDA NV, thank you for your compassion, thank you for your prayers.

SUE H, thank you for your understanding. It means a lot to know people are sharing the same emotions.

DOC DEAN, my heart goes out to you in these dark days. You have the respect and gratitude of many, and for good reason. I hope you'll find peace very soon.

ALEX, thank you for everything.

What got me going was when they asked...if they thought of cloning and saving his sperm. God help those stupid heartless people. Mrs.Jackson looked disgusted. Can't blame her.

I'll bet they creamated Barbaro to keep safe and sound and all that he was.

RUTH, THAT ISN'T STRANGE AT ALL, I'VE BEEN SLEEPING WITH MINE(BEANIE BABY) SINCE BARBARO STARTED HAVING BAD PROBLEMS. THE NIGHT HE DIED I SERIOUSLY IGNORED THE 3 LIVE ANIMALS IN MY BED AND CUDDLED WITH MY BARBARO BEANIE. I LOVE MY ANIMALS SO MUCH, BUT I WANTED TO HUG BARBARO AND I NEVER GOT THAT CHANCE.

YOUR COMMENTS ARE HELPING ME, I KNOW MR. BARBARO IS MUCH HAPPIER NOW, IT'S JUST SO HARD TO THINK ABOUT.

LOVE YOU ALL,
CHERYL G

Renee...

My thoughts exactly about one of the reasons he was cremated... to keep him safe.

Ro & Brady

I have my bracelet that I got from Sklyer in October..

I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO INTENTION OF TAKING IT OFF!!!!

And I hope the rest of you do the same.

I even emailed sharon clark to see if I can still purchase more of hers for the future..

WE MUST KEEP HIS MEMORY ALIVE..

mike c,
I can't take mine off either.

Rosemarie,
It makes sense to me.

Jane in CT,

I appreciate your post at 8:38 pm, especially these words- "I can't fight every fight, I'd rather work on stopping horse slaughter". That is our primary goal, after a period of grieving, is to transform all this love into action to demolish this brutal industry.

I hope all of you here stick around to work on this and see this happen.

Marcia - what a nice grandson you have to do that!

Cards for the Jacksons can be sent to Kennett Florist:

Kennett Florist Inc

www.kennettflorist.net

Local: 610-444-6040

405 W State St, Kennett Square, PA 19348

NBC :

George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals
New Bolton Center
382 West Street Road
Kennett Square, PA 19348

for Michael Matz/Peter Brett I am thinking care of Fair Hill:

Address at Fair Hill
Fair Hill Training Center
719 Training Center Drive
Elkton, MD 21921

Does anyone know how to get cards to Edgar Prado?

I bought yesterdays Daily News, NY Post and todays racing form with Barbaro on the front page, I haven't been able to even open them yet.

Lets try to get as many of us as possible to get to Fair Hills on April 29th...

i am wearing 2 of the Lael bracelets from sharon--i ordered the red one mon morning before the bad news came in--as soon as i get it i will be wearing that as well

mike c--if you can't get another one from sharon i will be glad to send you one of mine--let me know

linda

AUTUMNCHOUGH: That's a very good point -- that some nut might have attempted to steal his DNA or part of his body...or whatever...if he had not been cremated. Although I'm sure the Jacksons have Security on their farm. But you never know...there was an attempt to steal Elvis' body from the cemetery. That's why the family got permission to bury him at Graceland.

you can reach Edgar Prado by mailing to Gulfstream Park..

Gulfstream Park

901 S. Federal Highway

Hallandale, FL 33009

((((Alex)))) Thank you for all your efforts in bringing us all the news about ((((Bobby)))).

(((Bobby))) I miss you so.

Pat G
Proud Member
Fans of Barbaro

"Grief is the price you pay for love"...Gretchen Jackson

Cheryl, Renee and Karen ... I would be "sleeping" with my Barbaro Beany Baby, except I think my husband, who has been been patient with me throughout this entire ordeal, might have something to say. I have two beautiful framed pictures of Barbaro on our bedroom wall, my Beany Baby on my dresser, Barbaro's picture as the backdrop on my two computers and a mousepad and votives on the way. Most recently my husband has said to our male cat, Zachary, "Mommy has three men in her life, Barbaro, you and me. But I don't think you and I are number one and two!"

Why would anyone take off his/her bracelet??

Just because of what took place?? We are still fans.The bracelet was for him, his memory will not fade,keep them on.

Edgar Prado
The Jockeys Guild
P.O. Box 150
Monrovia,CA 91017

###

CHRIS,
THANKS FOR POSTING THE INFO WHERE TO SEND CARDS, I THOUGHT MICHAEL'S WOULD GO TO FLORIDA, I HAD EMAILED RACHEL (I'M SURE SHE'S GETTING BOMBARDED) ABOUT THE JACKSON'S CARD AND I HAVE ONE FOR DR. DEAN AND I OBVIOUSLY KNOW WHERE THAT GOES. I WATCHED THAT VIDEO AGAIN WHERE DR. DEAN HAD THE BIG SMILE AND THEN BARBARO DID THE BIG TEETH GRIN-IT ACTUALLY MADE ME FEEL BETTER- BARBARO LOOKED SO HAPPY!!! :>)

LOVE YOU BARBARO & EVERYONE,
CHERYL G

LINDA 6:38pm....WHY ARE YOU HERE?????

YOU obviously have no idea what you are talking about!!!!! ALL ARE MOURNED HERE !!!! I don't have to justify the actions of FOB'S to the liks of shortsighted individuals such as yourself !!!!!!!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO SAVE HORSES???...THIS IS BARBAROS WEBSITE...WE ARE FOB'S ...WE DO NOT HAVE TO JUSTIFY ANYTHING TO YOU.....

YOU NEED TO JUSTIFY TO US !!!

SO LINDA WE'RE WAITING WITH BAITED BREATH TO HEAR
HOW MANY HORSES HAVE YOU RESCUED????
HOW MANY PHONECALLS HAVE YOU MADE TODAY TO SENATORS and CONGRESSMEN IN SUPPORT OF ANTI SLAUGHTER????
HOW MANY DOLLARS DID YOU CONTIBUTE TO LAMINITIS RESEARCH TODAY OR ANYDAY?????
HOW MANY TIMES DID YOU GO TO A HORSE RESCUE and VOLUNTEER YOUR HELP?????
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU PHONED YOUR LOCAL TRACK and BEGGEDTHEM TO SWITCH TO POLYTRACK?????

WELL LINDA.....WE'RE WAITING????

I'M PROUD TO BE AN FOB and ALL IT STANDS FOR !!!!

THANK YOU BARBARO FOR GIVING ME THIS OPPORTUNITY TO BE OF SERVICE TO FILL A NEED FOR HORSES EVERYWHERE !!!!!

Mike C. thanks for Edgar's address.

Ro & Brady

####
Spirit Horse, I just loved you poem, I guess that is how we all feel about you Sweet Barbaro!

I think this has been my worst day since monday. I have held it back but today and as I type this I cant stop crying. I feel really sad... I miss Barbaro..............

Ruth
I love it. Your hubby might put you out to pasture. Be careful. LOL

#####

Does anyone remember the woman's name at NBC who takes care of the blood donor horses ?

We're going to send them some apples from their friend Bobby.

Steve & Bdude
FOB

#Mike C. I still have my bracelet from Sharon on, couldn't think of taking it off. I remember when I got it last Fall, I was so thrilled to have something that was recognition of his fight. So, NO, I will not take it off now.

We will keep his memory alive.

Judy

mike c--i guess i wasn't clear--i have an extra one--i was offering it to you if you can't get one--if you don't want it--thats ok--just an offer to a feloow fob!

Hey, all -

Very busy at work, and unable to read much.

I think we get irritated because our feelings are scraped raw. It hurts a lot. Peace to all with ruffled feathers.

I like cremation. To me, as I posted the other day, there is something epic about running horses. It seems fitting to me that his being would be released from the prison of the body through flame. It is heroic. I think of the Iliad. Through smoke he dissipates into the universe, and we all breath in his essence.

Have a better day. I'm working on my sisters-in-law to get onboard with the anti-slaughter letters. They still live in Illinois, so have the problem under their noses, so to speak.

Must go. Never have time to thank everyone appropriately, but must remember this time to thank Mr. Brown and Mr. Woolley, who have done so much, and Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, who, as many have said, shared their amazing boy with us, and Dr. Richardson, who never feared questions.

And to everyone else on the board, love and hope.
I like to think of the horses - quite a few now, by gosh - rescued because of Himself.

I received "Saving Leslie Jones" from TRF last night, about rescued thoroughbreds. It is beautiful and heartbreaking. I got it for my husband for his birthday. We sat there last night crying our eyes out. That never would have happened were it not for the Boss Hoss. I wouldn't have known.

Thank you all, again, for being here.

"It is a lovely thing to live with courage..."

- Jean

#############

Nina,

You have expressed a feeling I have had all night, and voiced to myself several times, saying I still needed to say goodnight to Barbaro, because he is still here, more than ever!

You said, "You know Barbaro is more with us now than he was when he was on this planet. He is with us and all around us. I believe this. When he was here, he was 3000 miles away. He is now in my house and with me where-ever I go. I am closer to him now. I know this sounds weird but it is so true. I feel the same way about my mom that died in 1999. I talk to her everyday. She is closer to me now than she was when she was on the planet...... Strange but true....... I truly believe that our Beautiful Barbaro is with all of us now..... He is checking in on all of us because now he is in a place where he can do that. Before, he could not. Does this make sense??????"

I echo your sentiments, exactly. I feel the same way about my husband, who has been gone several years...

Posted by: Shelley in CA at January 31, 2007 6:56 AM

Reading this, I analyzed my feelings (like theirs) and realized this had happened to me when I learned "the one" in my life, had died some years before. From that point on, I felt closer to him than I had in years, for now he no longer weas living a life on earth with other people that did not include me. Now that he was officially dead, somehow he came alive for me again as in the old days that I had learned to not think about over the years. (We were still friends, and I am phone friends with his wife in Georgia - but I had been out of touch for a while and was floored to learn he was dead. And then, of course, I wrote "The Dead Boyfriend Song." (if you ever see my act, please ask for it)

I have updated my website; where there was a link to "Information on Recovering Racehorse Barbaro" leading straight to this TWR site, it now reads "timwoolleyracing.com (horse welfare info)" and my band Fetlock Fusion performing Horsesongs for Barbaro, lives on. The link on Barbaro's name at the site takes you right here too. CJ

#######
PS - Ellen DeGeneres just adopted a tiny 10-week-oud puppy that she is introducing on live TV right now. (NBC) Any way to get her on our bandwagon? Her SO is a dressage/jumping competitive rider, isn't she?

###
Renee Antaya,

Thank you for letting me know the "treats on the ledge" story. Yes, our boy had many, many fine talents. Just one of the many, many reasons he was so loved.

linda nyc ... where can I get a bracelet?

Ruth S,
Where did you order you votive holder and mouse pad from?

Goodnight our Angel Barbaro...

I will be looking in the heavens tonight for your brilliant star.

We will keep the flames burning in honor of our loved Barbaro..

Our hearts are heavy, full of sadness. I do not think there are enough rivers to hold our tears.

Barbaro...we will keep you alive in our hearts as long as we live...your legacy will go on with us...bracelets, poems, keepsakes...everything we can find..that shall be...

Your family/fans are already thinking of wonderful ideas just for you and your owners and your precious Dr. R and staff...never you fret we will finish our tasks..

The Barbaro Bill...anti-horse slaughter bill will be passed QUICKLY...RESCUES, RETIREMENT HOMES, MONEY, FOUNDATIONS, LAMINITIS WILL BE CURED, AND I CAN GO ON...

In our hearts we know you are free of pain..running with the wind...but missed so much...

Thank you, Mr. Alex...You are a Knight in Shining Armour to us..

Have a lovely night..Mr. Barbaro and to your fans of Barbaro..

Make yourself familiar with the angels,
and behold them frequently in spirit,
for without being seen,
they are present with you.

I'm going to assume it was Trolls that were questioning The Jackson's decision to cremate Barbaro. I know that Friends of Barbaro would never question ANYTHING the Jacksons have done regarding Barbaro. If it was FOBs, that is a personal decision and we have no right to challenge or comment - only support their decisions. They chose to share Barbaro's recovery with us and held nothing back. They could very well have silenced the media, not let Dr. Richardson provide updates, etc.

They have made all the right decisions because they were their decisions to make. I applaud them for their class, openness and most importantly, for sharing Barbaro with us.

vicki

Alex: THANK YOU,THANK YOU,THANK YOU! for posting the outakes from the Hennagan's bros. documentary.......the only way Im finding any comfort right now is going back and enjoying every single picture and video I can find showing beautiful Barbaro in his prime.

Watching him prancing around and showing the ham in him is like medicine for my soul,Im sure there are alot of us that feel the same way! Please thank them when you talk to them again. I tried looking everywhere last night on Youtube and had no luck, so thank you for providing the link.

and bless your heart for keeping your website open; we are all grieving and trying desperately to come to terms that Barbaro is gone. How wonderful to think we can accomplish something in the name of Barbaro.

I want to focus on laminitis more than anything,what a horrible disease for any horse.

Did your "TV STAR" Hawty Creek have hives after all? And is her race posted anywhere?

The Florida address for Michael Matz and Peter Brette was given yesterday as:

c/o Palm Meadows Training Center
8898 Lyons Road
Boynton, Beach, FL 33437

Nancy in CA

All I have to say to Linda @ Jan 31st 6:38, is YOU need to get a life and leave us alone, we who loved Barbaro. Evidently Barbaro struck something with your daughter or she wouldn't have been on here. Yes, I have owned horses, and you DO NOT know what your talking about. Just go away and let us grieve, or vent or do whatever we need to do to get through this terrible ordeal! Everyone on here supports one another, knows what everyone is feeling, which is pain and sadness, something that you obviously know nothing about! Yes, these tragedies happen every day to horses, but don't blame us for loving the one and only Barbaro. There WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER BARBARO for me.

Thanks mike c and renee - I guess he would get them at either place?

I posted Fair Hill for Michael's since I don't have the Florida address - anyone?

no Linda,I'm sorry you misunderstood. I wasn't questioning you taking it off, I just was saying in general why would anyone do that. I truly appreciate your offer. Hopefully I could still get them from Sharon Clark.

I appreciate your offer but would never do that, you keep yours so you can wear them for many years to come.

Renee ... from Pat DeLong's "Anything Goes in Art" website.

Here is the link:
http://stores.prime-equine.com/StoreFront.bok

Just click on the tab at the left marked "Barbaro."

ruth

the blue and green lael bracelet are listed above
on this web site under Barbaro Wristband Fund raiser--see if they are still available--i love mine

i also bought a red one from another website that was listed on the forum--i will get the exact address shortly
linda

Mike Matz is stabled at Palm Meadows Training Center.
I will try to get he direct address.

RUTH, YOU MADE ME LAUGH WITH THAT- IF I WAS MARRIED I DON'T THINK MY HUSBAND WOULD BE TOO HAPPY ABOUT ME SLEEPING WITH MY BEANIE BABY. YOUR POST WAS CUTE!! :>)

BELINDA, I AM WITH YOU TOO, KNOW WE ARE ALL TOGETHER WITH THIS AWFUL PAIN UNFORTUNATELY. YESTERDAY I WAS A BIT BETTER UNTIL LATE LAST NIGHT- THEN IT HIT ME LIKE A TON OF BRICKS. TODAY - NOT SO GOOD.

LOVE YA ALL,
CHERYL G

PS- MIKE C-- I THINK APRIL 29 SOUNDS GREAT- I'VE BEEN TRYING TO GET PAMMIE TO GO TO PA ANYWAY.

Is there any way to get a Barbaro bracelet - I really need one

believe in barbaro website:

https://www.shop.BelieveInBarbaro.com.

i also got a magnet that says believe in barbaro--for my refrigerator

"What I love and admire so much about my brother is how hard he keeps trying to recover and overcome everything. He will never give up I know. Ya'll watch. He'll be walking before the one year mark is up. Let's see, it has now been 7 months since his accident. Mikey said that it really irritates him that sometimes his legs and arm just won't do what he asks them to do. But he doesn't let it get him down, thank God."

The above is from Mike Rea's blog from Sunday. It sounds so like Bobby too.

Mike, keep on keepin' on.

Oh my gosh! I did lookup Perfect Drift - Barbaro's half brother and except for the white on his nose, he looks amazingly like Barbaro.
Still breaks my heart though..........

OK, I need help here.
I am not a computer expert by any means, The DRF website has complete replays of every race BARBARO ran in its entirety with sound.

Is there a way I can save them on a disk or to any page or something, anyones help would be appreciated.

thanks,
mike c

Ruth Stacey,
I have the Spirit Of Barbaro T-shirt, the mousepad with Edgar and Barbaro and the twin Spires.
The Spirit sweatshirt is coming as of today. Her work is just beautiful.
Which votive holder did you get? I can't decide.

mike c,
You can save to a disc plus save it to your favorites also.

renee,
it goes right to the video, where or how do I save it to favorites??

I can't get to what Alex has linked in update 1422. Can somebody please post some excerpts or give me a thumbnail? THANKS -

Thank you, Linda nyc ... I am going to check it out. My husband, Mark, and my cat, Zachary, will just have understand. I almost bought a beautiful Barbaro 2007 calendar, I think it was on the Churchill Downs website, but I thought if I brought one more Barbaro item into the house, they would both leave! Oh well!

renee

where can i get the tee shirt and mouse pad--

thanks
linda

mike,
When you are on the page that you want, click on favorites, then click OK to save it, it will be in your drop down list.

I love the Gary Stevens quotes. Alex - "eternally indebted" to you. Is there anything from Edgar Prado, I missed what there was, apparently. CCJ

##
Thank you, Spirit Horse, for the excellent analysis you gave of what Dr. Richardson may be experiencing and why. It makes sense to me. I agree that he did begin to think that even though Barbaro wasn't out of the woods, as he put it, that he would pull through. What a crushing blow.

I'm going to send him a card. He loved Barbaro so much--you could just see in his facial expression and the way his eyes looked when he and Barbaro were together. It was almost like father and son, in a way, "Look at this wonderful boy". He couldn't take his eyes off him.

Sue M., Pittsburgh

Renee ... I got the larger votives. I intend to place them on my dresser, one on either side of my Barbaro Beanie Baby!"

Here is the link:
http://stores.prime-equine.com/StoreFront.bok

this is the correct web site
sorry--the other one didn't work

www.believeinbarbaro.com

That's it Ruth, you are off to pastures wide and deep. LOL

sorry to be a pain renee,

I fI save the entire DRF page I will save the videos along with it?

###

Okay. I have Tried EVERYTHING to watch that Video Alex posted in the newest Update. anyone else having issues NOT getting it to play??

Hi everyone:
Thank all of you for these incredible posts that show the love we have for our hero! It makes me feel so good that he touched so many lives.
I needed to get my heart and mind moving towards the tasks Barbaro has set for us. It was tough, but I did it! Here goes.
I called one of my senators' offices and talked with the aide he has has assigned to the ant-horse slaughtering bill! He has scanned the information I have sent him. I also told him I was sending an e-mail tomorrow that will address, point by point, the letter issued by leadership of two committees last week. He said he had not seen the letter. More proof we need to work with our aides. They are willing and able.
He then told me about a potential danger in passing the bills! He called it "the slippery slope!" He said one of the concerns talked about is that other animal activists will want similar legislation in the future, meaning they will want cattle protected. He said there is conversation about language being written that would make passing the current anti-horse slaughtering bill
that will somehow exclude that from happening. He said tell everyone to call their senators and ask them to pursue that language! So I am asking everyone to please do that. Again, inside info from the aide giving directions.
I worked with him on S. 1915 so he knows me. That being said, he offerred condolences. I did hold it together. Until I hung up! Now the river of tears! I love you Barbaro!
Daryl!

Mary L ... I cannot get it to play either! Tried twice!

Linda nyc,
Go here Pat DeLong's "Anything Goes in Art

Kate
I also felt the words on Larry King were quite disturbing.It made it sound like he was executed.
Unfortunately the question on cloning that he chose to share was also very questionable taste.
Is his show based on "shock" value.

no pain mike. ouch. Yes it will.

MARY L, I COULDNL'T GET THAT LAST ONE TO WORK EITHER THAT ALEX POSTED.

DARYL AND THE REST, I'LL START POSTING THE BLUE LINKS AGAIN TOMORROW FOR THE ANTI-SLAUGHTER BILL. I KNOW THAT'S WHAT BARBARO WOULD WANT AND WE DEFINITELY KNOW THAT'S WHAT THE JACKSON'S WANT.

LOVE & PRAYERS,
CHERYL G

thanks renee, I think it's OK...

thank you very much for your help, I hope you save them for yourself too.

Renee ... whatever helps to ease the pain! I have my own little "Barbaro Memorial!" I would have gotten the sweatshirt and tee shirt, but I don't wear sweatsirts or tee shirts. She offers a beautiful wooden storage chest that she has done for "The Fog." Maybe she will do one for Barbaro! Expensive though ... $175.00!

I know Mary S loves "The Fog." Maybe someone can tell her about this site!

Alex's link up top "...saves a horse" talks about the FOB's and the money donated saved horses at New Holland Auction. What is the name of the group and what is their contact info, please?

LORETTA/SPIRIT HORSE,
Thank you for answering. I did read your long post yesterday and it crystalized my own feelings. Six years ago, my most beloved cat Jackson ran away and could not be found, in spite of all my praying and searching. It was just as you said, like being in some kind of earthquake. It has changed me profoundly, I have never been the same since and I never expect to be. When Barbaro was injured, I dared to pray again for the first time since I lost Jackson, because I so wanted Barbaro to live. I am not so upset that God did not answer my prayers, I am used to that. But I am so bewildered and grieved that God did not answer the faithful prayers of so many good people, asking what would have been such a small favor for God to grant: just the life of one horse.

I have been going to the DB and watching the foal cam on Belle. She had her colt (boy) this morning and all look like they are doing fine.
It is a full circle moment when we see death and then new life. It helps the healing process. Watching this new baby will not bring Barbaro back I know but it helps to see new life with a new beginning. I hope that makes sense.
Love and Kisses Barbaro!!!!! you are missed.

Chris,
The correct addresses are on the MBs...

Michael Matz
Barns 7 and 17
c/o
Palm Meadows Thoroughbred Training Center
8898 Lyons Road
Boynton Beach, Fla. 33437

Edgar Prado
C/O
The Jockeys Guild
Post Office Box 150
Monrovia, CA 91017

Love to Family,
Susan
Miss you my Angel

You are so welcome mike c. I will do the same.

Ruth,
She has the other Greats also. I won'der where Mary S is?

Hi Alex and FOB's

Thank you for all the many articles you listed and for your lovely words about our boy.

A museum would be awesome! I hope something can come of that idea.

Having read some of the articles and various editorials, I've come to the conclusion that our sweet Barbaro did tell the people who loved him that he wanted to be set free, that it was enough pain, enough procedures, and loving him, who could deny him his wish?

I am still having a hard time coming to grips with his death, and no matter how I rationalize it, my heart still keens for him. NO more ACN, no more tucking him in and wishing him sweet dreams. I truly can't bear it!

Reposting from last batch; not sure if reposted yet or not. THANK YOU HENNEGAN BROTHERS and I want to keep passing this on. CJ

Dear Barbaro fans,

My name is John Hennegan and I am a friend of Alex Brown. My brother Brad and I have directed a documentary entitled THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY. The story follows six horses - including Barbaro - to the 2006 Kentucky Derby.

We are currently submitting it to film festivals. Our big hope is to get into the Tribeca Film Festival in NYC at the end of April. Although the exact details about when and where the film can be seen are still up in the air, we wanted to put it on the radar of all Barbaro fans - especially those on timwoolley.com.

We will be posting updates on the film's status as they come in. In the meantime, you can see a trailer on our website........

www.henneganbrothers.com

Alex, Gretchen Jackson, Michael Matz and Peter Brette have all seen the film and all have told us they like it. Gretchen told us that it helped to remind her of what Barbaro was like before the injury.

With Gretchen's comment in mind and after discussing it with Alex, we decided to post a few outtakes of Barbaro in his prime on youtube.com. Here is the link......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvD_Qa8FdN4

We thought we'd post some more outtakes this week as Alex has told us how much the fans of this website would like it.

We hope you like them and look forward to all of you enjoying the film sometime in the near future.

And on behalf of all racing fans, a big thanks to Alex for his great work and kickass updates and the last 8 months.

Regards,

John and Brad Hennegan

Posted by: Hennegan Brothers at January 31, 2007 3:13 AM

Man every time I see those words.Barbaro E..

I lose it.

#####3

"kickass updates" - don't blame me, it was The Hennegan Brothers! cj

thanks renee

i just ordered the mousepad and tee shirt--can't wait until i get them--they are beautiful

New "Barbaro Theme" Desktop Wallpaper for Your Computer

I have created a new Barbaro Wallpaper Collage to use for your desktop computer. It makes me feel close to him - doing something for him. Thank you to those whose images I used for the wallpaper.

You can find it in the "Barbaro" topic section of the Chat/Discussion Board: Titled: New Barbaro Wallpaper

Blessings.

linda nyc ... Here is the link:

http://stores.prime-equine.com/StoreFront.bok

If that doesn't work, just go to Pat DeLong's Anything in Art web site. You can do a search for the exact address.

I miss Barbaro. I never met him, but he touched me with his grace, courage, and strength. He's a hero of mine. Yeah, I know, he was a horse. Yes, that he certainly was; a joyful, innocent creature who loved to run. He was what he was.
I loved Bobby -- and I miss him.

Today is my birthday. So what does that have to do with Barbaro? Simple, I feel as though I recieved a sucker punch for a gift when hearing of Bobby's euthanasia. It was a really rotten birthday gift.

That brave, beautiful colt deserved to live a long, happy life just being a horse. That, however, was not to be. It was his time. He was Barbaro Invictus. He never lost. He never failed us, and his caretakers didn't fail him. It was just his time to move on.

Last night as I was drifting off to sleep, crying and blowing my stuffy nose, I wondered what Barbaro would say to me if we could communicate. Just a silly fantasy as I wandered on the hinterland between wakefulness and sleep.

I could imagine Barbaro as he was just after winning the Kentucky Derby -- powerful and astonishingly beautiful. I can hear a "horsey" voice inside my head saying, "Don't be sad for me, my story is a happy one. It's a story of triumph. Just think of all the horses that will be helped because of what Dr. Richardson and all my caretakers learned from treating me. My beloved Mrs. Jackson got attention for her cause of eradicating horse slaughter because of the attention I got. Horse rescue issues and safer racing surfaces to protect horses and jockeys because of the attention payed to what had happened to me. Please don't cry. I'm healed and I'm whole. See, I have four strong hooves.

And at that he turned deftly on those strong hooves, his powerful muscles tensing, sunlight rippling over his glossy bay coat as though it were glittering on water. Barbaro galloped off with his celebrated long stride, gathering speed, all four of hooves leaving the ground. Faster, and faster he ran, until his hooves never touched the earth again. He ran with his gorgeous long tail trailing after him, until he was lost in a dazzle of light. I squinted against the glare, finally squeezing my eyes shut. Murmuring as I drifted into sleep, "I love you, Bobby, and I miss you. So many of us miss you."

There was a sensation, like the softest of breaths against my thoughts, the words that formed were, "I know. Please be happy for me."

Barbaro was a great horse. Rest well great champion.

Toby,
Who says no more ACN they will all be ACN from now on. You can always tuck him in,he would love that. Please wish him sweet dreams. He is with you and all of us he knew how much we loved him. We carried him with our faith love and prayers. He will carry us now.If you want to talk to him do so he will hear you.

Chris.

AC4H www.ac4h.com

Hariette
Thanks for posting the words to "When I get To Where I'm Going". I always loved the song, but until you posted it I didn't realize how much it meant.

Joe,(Horses are owned by no one...we are merely given the privelege of being their caregivers and companions. Horses belong to God, since He created them all.
Posted by: Joe at January 31, 2007 7:48 PM)
I agree.I have always told friends when they ask about my horses that I'm thankful that I've been privileged to be their caretaker.

I agree

####
Cheryl G.
Thank you! You're the best!
Daryl!

How many of you know of/remember 'Go For Wand' who died very very tragically at the age of 3 in 1990? She was a beautiful mare. There are pics of what happened to her at this website: http://pets.webshots.com/album/39393344MyXtWm?start=0

Cheryl PA,
happy birthday~

Renee ... I don't know where Mary S is, but I am worried about her. I know we ALL took Barbaro's passing hard, but I think Mary S and Spirit Horse REALLY took it hard! Does anyone know where Mary S is?

###

Okay. I have Tried EVERYTHING to watch that Video Alex posted in the newest Update. anyone else having issues NOT getting it to play??

Posted by Mary L Ohio at January 31, 2007 9:27 PM

Me, too, Mary. CJ

Last night as I was drifting off to sleep, crying and blowing my stuffy nose, I wondered what Barbaro would say to me if we could communicate. Just a silly fantasy as I wandered on the hinterland between wakefulness and sleep

Cheryl in PA,
He would have nipped you good.

I remember Go For Wand, but I don't really want to see pics of what happened to her, it was very very tragic and sad.

Speaking of horses that Barbaro saved, please see the FOB Foal Watch thread at TWF (of which I have posted several times recently; re the pg mares at MHR) CJ

Precious Barbaro, I must say good night. I know that the Lord is cradling you in his arms at this very moment. If not, then you are still playing in the pastures and flirting with the fillies! Don't be late for dinner!

Horsey Hugs and Kisses!

Ruth

CAN'T GET IT EITHER. MAYBE IT'S NOT A VIDEO,
BUT I GET A BLANK SCREEN.

TRUDY

I would advise family NOT to go to the Go for Wand pic site. If you are not aware of this beautiful and talented horse, her accident was horrifying....and we do not need this right now.

Love to Family,
Susan

Me too C. Jaffe and Mary L. My co-worker even tried to help me figure it out, no luck.

####

Mary L, Stacy, same here, can't get the video to play, only the sound. Re-downlownloaded Windows Media Player 10, checked tech sites, nothing.

#Mary L. I too didn't have any luck and couldn't take time here at work to keep trying, someone might notice. Anyway if there's a trick to it I would appreciate hearing about it. Will check tomorrow.

Good Nite Sweet Prince, sleep well in the arms of the angels.

Good Nite All, tomorrow is another day. Today's been a tough one for me, I thought it would've been better.

Judy

Good Night, Fellow FOB's. Thank you for a comforting, healing day!

I find myself sitting here at work searching the internet looking for everything and anything I can find on Barbaro.

Barbaro, you will never be forgotten. XOXO

Is there any way to still get a Barbaro bracelet. I never got Lisa's info. and have not been able to find anything in prior postings.

Those pictures are tragic. Don't look not now.

Wow, did someone say that La Ville Rouge just foaled and the colt is on the ground? Is this for real? Because if it is my imagination is running wild with ideas of regeneration, rebirthing, etc. Anyone know about this?

Cheryl,

Sharon Clark was selling brecelets with all proceeds going to the barbaro fund,you can get to the page by looking on the left column of this site at barbaro wristband fundraiser..

Go to DRF.COM, they have a whole page set up for him, articles, videos, race charts. It is very, very good.

Hello Again:

I wanted to ask if any of you would select favorite photos of Barbaro (especially like the one on the main page here) and send to my email. I will download and print these photos to use in constructing a quilt as a gift to the Jacksons.
I am also contacting quilt shops around the country to ask them if they would donate their time to make "Barbaro" quilts (I would furnish the photos). I would like to then send them to locations you could provide, and have a quilt donation auction for Barbaro's charities.

Give me your thoughts. ( I hope to make one for myself)

Busy writing my letters to TV people for their support.

Thanks

My Heart Still Aching

Marcia in Ohio
simolin@centurytel.net

No way, she dropped the foal today???

Thats amazing,if true.The days are so close together, thats amazing.
I want to follow that colt if its true.

### Bonnie: La Ville's Rouge's colt (and B's full brother) is due mid to late April.....

DO NOT LOOK AT THOSE PICTURES. Mike C and I have warned you. (Go for Wand)
Family, we have enough grief on our plate right now.

Love to Family,
Susan

Now tell me again,
When will the pain start to go away?

Those having issues witht the video Alex posted...Try turning off your popup blockers. It worked for me

Ro & Brady

I just wanted to join those who did not like seeing "Barbaro Put to Death" during the Larry King Show. That was horrible. How could they not bother to research the proper wording?

I am so glad I got to see Barbaro in person. He spent a few weeks at Keeneland and I walked past his stall as many times as I could and stood a few feet away while he grazed and posed for photos. I have said this to everybody I know and I'll say it again, you could not have wiped the smile off Michael Matz's face during that time. He knew what he had. Anyone who bothered to look at Barbaro knew what he had. That "wide open" Derby was a lock from the git-go. I hope they will cherish those memories and know that they are now part of racing lore that will have future fans wondering what he was like, just like I used to wonder about Man o' War. If you ask me, he was perfect.

never

#####

Does anyone remember the woman's name at NBC who takes care of the blood donor horses ?

We're going to send them some apples from their friend Bobby.

Steve & Bdude
FOB

Posted by Steve & BDude at January 31, 2007 9:09 PM

Steve & BDude - A worthy endeavor, indeed! I think you could contact Kathy Freeborn at NBC, not sure. If not her, I'm sure the ladies at Kennett Florist would know by now. Hoping your felines are flourishing - CJ & Junebug (and 9 more cats)

Susan W..

Oh I know..I was at that Breeders Cup..It was horrific...

NO ONE SHOULD LOOK AT THEM.

mike c: She didnt drop the foal - There was some confusion with a horse named Belle on the foalcam that foaled...We will have to wait a few more months....FYI, on the disussion boards, there is a thread on LA Ville Rouge with video at the farm where she lives talking about the baby etc....

Lisa in Colorado

WOW..if that were ever true......

I didn't think she was due yet.

TVG has been so wonderful to watch today. All day long they have been airing tributes to Barbaro between regularly scheduled shows, and the commentators have been sharing their thoughts and sadness too. It's really been very touching.

Some nice words about Barbro from people in the industry:

"...on that one day in May, he was as good as any horse would ever get." ~ unknown trainer

"He was kind. No matter how many screws they put in him, he was kind...letting them put him in a sling...I think he drew a lot of people to him, thinking, 'He might be more human than we think,'because he was a better patient than we would be." ~ Jockey Aaron Gryder

Dawn in Omaha,

Your letter was perfectly stated and articulate. Thank you for finding the words that I'm certain we all would agree with, thank you for sharing it with us.

#####
Cheryl PA,
happy birthday~

Posted by: Anna in Texas

Thanks Anna.

OK- THAT IS SO BIZARRE- OTHER CHERYL!! :>)- NOT CHERYL JONES & NOT CHERYL FROM NY. I DONATED TO MHR IN ??? WAS IT OCTOBER??? I STILL HAVE MY RECEIPT BECAUSE AOL SAVES EVERYTHING FOR LIKE 5 MONTHS AND I NEVER SENT IT TO LISA TO GET MY BRACELET. SO NOW I AM DIGGING FOR MY RECEIPT THROUGH THOUSANDS OF EMAILS. DOES ANYONE KNOW APPROXIMATELY WHEN STEPHANIE (MHR) WENT TO AUCTION? I DONATED LIKE 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THAT? PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF ANYONE HAS THAT INFO!!

THANKS SO MUCH,
CHERYL G

"A friend shared this with me, and I wanted to share this with you..."

In a beautiful, serene setting:
Barbaro: “Hay you! Yeah, yeah ,the big red one. See that tree over there? Last one there is a wimp!”
Big Red: “Son, do you know who I am?”
Barbaro: “Do you know who I am?”
Big Red: “For a youngin’ ya’ sure got spunk!”
Barbaro: The tree, the tree! Let’s go…………….”
Big Red: “Son, I admire your feistiness……..”
Barbaro: “I see what you’re doing. Stalling! Are you chicken?
Big Red: “Look son, now’s not the time………..”
Barbaro: “I’m the Derby Champion. Now, let’s go!”
Big Red: “Son, stay here!” In the blink of an eye, the big red horse is off. His mane flying in the wind that he creates with incredible speed, a sudden stop, a throw of the head, a leap, thundering hooves and back.
Barbaro, wide eyed: “Uh, uh! I, ummmm…………..! Who are you?”
Big Red: “The name’s Secretariat!”
Barbaro: Gulp, still wide eyed! “Sir, I didn’t mean to offend you! Umm,….., my name is Barbaro!”
Secretariat: “I know who you are!”
Barbaro: “You do?”
Secretariat: “Son, I’ve been watching you since you were a baby. I told everyone here you were special!”
Barbaro, eyes as big as grapefruits: “Sir, I’m honored!”
Secretariat: “No son, I’m honored!”
Barbaro: “I don’t know what to say! You are one of my heroes.”
Big Red: “And you are my hero. I am a FOB!”
Barbaro: “You are my fan? Why?”
Big Red: “Son, you showed a mostly blind world the true meaning of living. You unified a nation with your display of courage, heart, soul. Son, you honored the horse world! I am proud of you!”
Barbaro: Sir, not bragging, but I had millions of FOBs down there and they are hurting…..”
Big Red: “No son, change “had” to “have” millions of fans. What you have done, those people will never forget you. The hurt they feel will be the fuel that drives them to carry out the work
you showed them that needs to get done. Son, your accomplishments on the track were great. But what you did off the track will change the world, especially the horse world. You opened their eyes to look beyond our existence. You taught them. And they listened. You are the IMPACT that we have always waited for. You changed the lives of countless people. Son, the world is a better place because of you! Barbaro, you accomplished what none of us could!
Barbaro: “I’m humbled, truly humbled! But may I ask, who’s ‘us’, sir?”
Big Red: “C’mon, I’ll introduce you!”
They walk across pristine green grass, trees outlining the meadow. Above, soft, billowy white clouds. As they walk more horses join in. Soon, Barbaro and Secretariat are surrounded by them. Barbaro recognizes The Fog, St. Liam and a few others. Seabiscuit, Man ‘O War, Ferdinand and others introduce themselves. Barbaro is happy. And they are happy. Then, Barbaro sees a horse who he knows is not a race horse. She is different. She does not have the conformation of a race horse. He eyes her curiously. She comes to him. They are eye to eye. Barbaro asks, “Are you Darlin’, from the Missouri accident?” She nudges her velveety nose against his big muscular shoulder then looks at him. She says, “Yes! Thank you! Because of you, and your brave fight, people are working for our safety!”
Their noses touch gently. The herd begins to walk towards beautiful grass for Barbaro and his new friends to graze! As they gently stride together, shoulder to shoulder, a sight of pure beauty and innocence, Barbaro raises his head high in search of Secretariat! He spots him. Secretariat is looking right at him. Secretariat, beaming with pride, winks! Barbaro is home! And he is their hero!


We have so much to learn from all animals. They teach, we do not listen. Human arrogance clouds our perception of their existence. They are not here to serve us. They are here to teach. Someday, we will learn to listen. On that day, the human species will truly become human!
Honor Barbaro. Listen. He still speaks!

Cheryl in PA,
He would have nipped you good.

Posted by: Renee Antaya

Renee, I'm certain that Barbaro would have nipped me in a very loving way.

What a horse!

Mike C & Renee, saving the webpage to your favorites will not save the videos permanently. If they remove the videos or move them to a different location, the link won't work. Most of the videos are protected so you can't save them to disc. If you right click the video and you don't see Save As, you can't save them. You can also test this by going to the top menu and click File. The Save As will be greyed out.

You can also do a File Save As on the web page and save the page rather than the link. I save all the articles as .MHT files and it retains the links and graphics. But again, if the underlying videos are moved, the links will not work. I prefer to save the page because everything regarding Barbaro can go into one folder on my hard drive. Just my preference!

I wish they would publish all of Barbaro's races, press conferences and interviews with Dr. R. The proceeds could go to The Barbaro Fund or Laminitis Research Fund. I would pay handsomely!

vicki

No, no, no!!! Don't look at the Go for Wand pictures! I have seen them and they are absolutely horrifying and heartbreaking. I have never been able to forget them. Please, you really don't want to see those, especially not now.

I think that whole Larry King show last night was "sensational" and that fellow really does go after the ratings score. I too, think that whole "Put to Death" line came from some bad TV movie of the week about some condemned criminal. Yes, they made it sound like he was executed. And they kept it up on the bottom of the screen thru the whole episode. Obviously not horse people with any compassion.

Then Larry King tries to make himself sound like such a horse person. "Yes, I'm a big fan of horse racing".... Probably a big fan of betting. And that question about cloning --- I think enough people have already gone there.

One more thing, why did they dig up (of all people) Bo Derek and what makes her such a racehorse expert? I realize she has horses and has attended a Kentucky Derby but I've never known her to be in the racehorse business. I liked it when ole Larry asked her if she ever had to put a horses down and she responded, "Yes, MANY times". Even Larry seems suprised by "Many times". She must have some MAJOR stable management issues. She was so busy posing for the camera (pursing her lips and "projecting"). Surely they could have found someone else? Jack Hanna was alright. He a good guy. And the PETA woman made some good points although I don't entirely agree with her.

The Jacksons appeared to be a class act and Dr. Richardson is just a God.

Sweet Prince,

I know you are looking down on us, holding us and comforting us. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. You have made me a better person by knowing you and loving you. Run free now sweet Barbaro....you will forever be in my heart.

Goodnight everyone....try to get some rest tonight....Barbaro doesn't want us to get sick or run down.

Love to all....

Karen - TN

I got misty-eyed at the supermarket today when I saw the baby carrots - remembering how much Bobby enjoyed them! Then I smiled. He truly was well-loved and well-cared for, wasn't he?

Vicki,

Thanks,
I can right click on the video link at drf and save it that way..thank you.

Sorry, didn't mean to alarm you but I read this here somewhere about the foal - I've read so many messages, it must have been an error as I have also read that she's due in April which makes must more sense anyway.

I finally saw a picture of Barbaro as a baby---what menche (sp)!

Thank you vicki.

Good night all I hope your hearts start to heal slowly, Barbaro would want that. Remember he did not stay down long.

Sweet Spirit Barbaro,
I can't say God Bless you because you are now Blessed by God. Rest well and enjoy the fluffy clouds.I love you with all my heart and still cry hard over you. Good night darling. Sleep tight.

Once again, thank you, Alex for all the updates and links.

Celeste in FW, TX

Hi all FOBs!!!
I MISS Barbaro........ :(

I was just looking at the Exclusively Equine website.
In the section to purchase photos the Barbaro selections have been expanded.

http://pictopia.com/perl/gal?provider_id=368

jan

##### Thank you Renee!

Yes I will do that! I believe that when we lose a loved one, if we think of them, they are with us...and I forgot that momentarily. YOu reminded me, and I thank you!

Marcia in Ohio
simolin@centurytel.net

In references to the pictures you want to use for the quilts, you will need to get permission, or copyright permission from the owners of the images you will be using. Also, you will need the highest resolution for the images. Images copied from a computer screen at 72dpi will not work. You need atleast 300 dpi.

I would suggest contacting Barbara Livington
at http://www.barbaralivingston.com She
was one of Barbaro's exclusive photographers and would probably be happy to work with you.

DEAREST BARBARO -

A STATEMENT JUST IN FROM SENATOR LANDRIEU -

"Barbaro was an inspiration not only to equestrians and horse lovers,
but to all Americans. I hope that his memory will serve as added
motivation in our continued fight for the safety and welfare of horses,
and his legacy will serve as an inspiration to get the Virgie S. Arden
American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act passed through Congress."

Senator Landrieu

Posted by Debra, WI at January 31, 2007 8:35 PM

Where was this statement please? Was it read into the Congressional Record, and/or a letter sent out to all the legislators? This is wonderful! Thanks for posting - CJ

The wording "put to death" must have really annoyed Dr. Richardson, as if he killed Barbaro. It was done to sensationalize the story, as if it wasn't sad enough already! From my perspective the good doctor and Mr. & Mrs. Jackson looked very uncomfortable like they would rather be somewhere else during the interview.

Bo Dereck is a big supporter of the anti-slaughter legislation, on that issue she is in our camp. I'm not too sure if this is a plus or minus, again my perspective, she doesn't hold much credibility. Although I'm sure she is a nice person if she loves horses as she claims!

Nina's poem/tribute to Barbaro at the 4:08 posting, is brilliant. Thanks, Nina. I will cherish it forever. It is an absolutely lovely tribute to our boy.

I wonder how it was composed. Did you do it in spurts, or did it just flow out of you in the last day or so? I am so impressed.
***********
All of your posts mean so much to me. I am so thankful, Alex, that you have kept us all together during this time. It is so important to us to be able to have a place to be among fellow FOBs, who share the same feelings of loss and grief right now. The "outsiders" just don't get it.

The media has been very, very gracious and kind. I have not read one negative word throughout the span of the last few days...thank god.

Blessings and peace to all.
Therese

Good Night Sweet Prince. Peppermint Dreams and Carrot Wishes Forever and Ever. Please rock us all to sleep tonight.

My Kentucky Derby book arrived this afternoon. It is all everyone said it was! Truly beautiful. But difficult to look at Barbaro and know he is not here on earth with us.

There are only 2000+ candles burning. WE MUST KEEP LIGHTING THEM!

A nice article on MSNBC.com. Many people feel the loss deeply.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16908885/

"Everybody in the business feels the loss of Barbaro so deeply that it would be unfair to say we have any more or less tie to him because of Dynaformer,'' said Margaret Layton, publicist for Three Chimneys Farm, the home of Barbaro's sire. "That's the impact of Barbaro. That's how strongly he impacted everyone in this business.''

Phil NY

###

SHELBI, BO DEREK HAS HELPED US IMMENSELY WITH THE SLAUGHTER BILL.

Ooooh, Ooooh, I have the Doug Prather calendar in my office "Doug Prather's Bluegrass" and I just turned it to February getting prepared for the new month tomorrow. February's picture is of Three Chimney's Farm's Stallion barn --- where Dynaformer stands. I bet he was standing in that barn when they snapped the picture. The stallion barn is cloaked in fresh snow. It is an absolutely gorgeous pictures.

I think this is a sign that Barbaro wants us to look forward into the coming breeding season and cycle of life. So many new foals are coming and on their way. He would want us to look forward and move onward.

Maybe that is simple and some people think that is stupid but that's what I feel.

###SAD FOB
What a wonderful vision. Thank you for helping me smile in the face of all this sadness.

Nancy - Chi.

Where can I find pictures of Barbaro as a baby?

My Precious Barbaro: Just came back from lighting a candle for you.....which I will be doing "forever". I know you felt our love from the glow of the candles when you were in your physical body on earth and you can feel the love even more now that you have been taken home by our Father to the most beautiful pasture you will ever see. I know that Heaven is a beautiful place but, oh, how much more beautiful it is now with your presence. You and Gallant Secret are truly a "match made in Heaven". I miss you beautiful boy, but I comfort myself knowing that you are not gone forever....you just went first.

Father, thank you for the "Miracle of Barbaro"

Lost in the Fog: Still missing you and lighting your candle everyday, too. I bet you and our Precious Barbaro are running up a storm and filling the heaven's with the beautiful sound of your "thundering hooves". I ask my Heavenly Father everyday that when it is my turn to go home, that He send Barbaro and you to pick me up.

Father, thank you for "Foggy"

Barbaro Family: I want you to know that I have been holding all of you in my thoughts and heart. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have all of you to get thru this time in our lives. We have lots of work to do and I intend to be with you guys all the way (and afterwards). A family like our "Barbaro Nation" needs to stay together forever. We have a special bond that brought us together......our Precious Barbaro.

#####

Spirit Horse aka Loretta:
Loretta: I knew it was you the first time I saw your post as "Spirit Horse" a few weeks ago. No one can write as beautifully as you. I have always enjoyed reading your posts as I have commented to you in the very beginning. Welcome, Back.

"Please Pray for the Horses"

"No Horse Left Behind"

REMEMBER ALL F.O.B

AS LONG AS WE REMEMBER HIM AND KEEP HIM WITH US..HIS MEMORY WILL LIVE ON FOREVER.

everyone try to have a peaceful evening.

####
Steve & Bdude,

Her name is Libby. Barbaro would be so happy you were sending apples to his friends (the donor animals) at NBC.

#####- ALL***

Can anyone advise where I can go to view Barbaro as a baby???

Thank you
Daphne- I will love and miss Barabaro forever!

Candles for Barbaro

Wanted to add- when I watched the sweet outtake of Barbaro- it was taken in Florida and I realized

This is where Barbaro would be right now, if he didn't get injured- In FLORIDA with Michael and Peter.

Barbaro looked so carefree- it was great to see him so happy and natural- hanging out on a beautiful, sunny day!!!!

Daphne

Candkes for The Fog

http://network.bestfriends.org/texas/news/7377.html

Taking a break...thought this article might be of interest to the Barbaro Nation and those working on the horse slaughter issue. It is my understanding they were shut down this month by the 5th Circuit .

#########
Loved the poem posted by Becky at January 31, 2007 8:24 PM

Becky - Are you Becky of Becky and the Meezers?

But heaven help me, old folkie/musician that I am, it came in (almost perfectly, all the way through) to the tune of "[Oh Do You Remember] Sweet Betsy From Pike." Try reading it to yourself in your head, to that tune. CJ

I have been watching the NTRA video which has a picture of our dear sweet horse as a foal. It is so lovely. Just made my donation to the nbc laminitis fund. It feels good. I pray a cure may be found for this disease. I am going to call Churchhill Downs and Pimlico about installing the new synthetic tracks. Awaiting some brochures on the anti horse slaughter bill to send to senators. It all helps to fill the void of our Barbaro. He would have wanted this. Love to all of you out there. BARBARO YOU WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER

I am still so sad. I just can't shake it. Even though I didn't get to see him face to face every morning for the last 8 months I get up, jump on the computer to see how Beautiful Barbaro was doing. It always made my day so much brighter reading he was okay. I just felt at peace. I can't imagine the pain Dr. Richardson must feel not seeing his beautiful face every day. I just want to make it okay and for him to still be alive. I miss him so much. I an hurting so much for you, Beautiful, beautiful Barbaro. I hope you know how much you were loved. I would've done anything for you. Anything in the world. I love you so much, buddy. I miss you so much it hurts me deep inside. I keep hoping each day will get better then when I awaken I remember you are not here and I get so sad. My only hope is that one day I can see you again. Running free. I love you, Barbaro, so much!!!

I miss you sweet Barbaro.

I still wear your bracelet, and will for the rest of my life. Fly with the angels, mighty one.

DAPHNE NOT SURE WHAT YOU WERE LOOKING FOR, BUT THIS IS VERY CUTE--

BARBARO ON U TUBE YOUNGER

Amie,

I totally echo what you have written. You wrote exactly what I am feeling. Sorry you and all of us are hurting so badly. I miss Our Boy so badly. :-(

I had cut a picture out of the San Jose Mercury News, a VERY cute one of Barbaro leaning out of his stall with his head tilted to the side - probably scratching the back of his neck as they do. It is adorable.

A coworker came over a few minutes ago. She had noticed my poster boy, and took the time to search online and print out, in color, many of the happy photos.

How kind! And reading over and over again how "kind" Barbaro was, perhaps it is a cosmic Barbaro effect!

Best -

- Jean

MikeC

You will love this article. I think you felt similar about Barbaro

DAPHNE, CAN U POST THE ONE FROM THE NTRA SITE OF BARBARO AS A BABY, I DIDN'T REALIZE THERE WAS ONE OF HIM THAT YOUNG!!!

THANKS!!!
CHERYL G

Here's another story, please forgive me if it's been posted already!

http://msn.foxsports.com/horseracing/story/6428300

Ashley..

THANK YOU FOR THE ARTICLE, IT DOES HIM PROUD.

http://www.house.gov/list/press/ii00_democrats/horseremarks.html

Specific to wild horses old news but worth reading

Wish I could have a Barbaro approval hoof print!

All you people backing this legislation against horse slaughter -- Who will take care of these unwanted animals? I agree it is a horrible issue but a bigger issue is that you have no alternative plan to offer. There are thousands of unwanted horses in this country every year. Sad to say the breed associations (the thoroughbred association isn't solely at fault) are a huge contributors to the problem.

Breeding is big business in this country for all breeds of horses. The problem originates with the breeding of so many of these horses in the first place.

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't that a reason for the spay/neuter efforts for dogs and cats? To reduce the unwanted population.

Horses are expensive to maintain and house. What are your alternatives to slaughter? Who is going to maintain these unwanted animals?

Alex, Thank you so much for the beautiful home page and the lovely picture of our boy, makes it a little easier now.....is anyone else having a hard time looking at videos of him or photos? I just can't bear it. I think my favorite is the one of him at Fair Hill in the portapen, rolling on his back, such a clown, what a dear! Perhaps in a week or so, right now just too hard.

I heard a radio program, Dan Lovallo, here in Connecticut where he spoke to an equine vet who is saying it is so important that they find a way to make a device where the horse will put equally distributed weight on all four legs after an injury like Barbaro's, otherwise, they cannot advance much in the treatment of such injuries.

Mike C

They aint getting this bracelet off me until I am WITH Barbaro myself.

Noooooo way.

Leslie in MN

C JAFFE,
We've been working on getting statements from Senator Landrieu, Congressman Whitfield and other anti slaughter organizations. We were hoping for something powerful from the anti slaughter leaders in honor of Barbaro and we did get that. Senator Landrieu's office emailed me this morning with the statement in light of Barbaro's passing.

It's great! We thanked her for that.

A run for the roses, by Barbaro

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz5xzK4q6Xw&search=run%20for%20roses%20barbaro

I continue to be comforted by all the postings. Although Barbaro may not be with us physically anymore, his spirit is certainly alive & well in all of us. Please keep the candles lit in his memory.

Kate

you an I both Leslie, and even then it's staying where it is.

The video with Barbaro and Michael Matz son is BEAUTIFUL. So touching....

The wording "put to death" must have really annoyed Dr. Richardson, as if he killed Barbaro. It was done to sensationalize the story, as if it wasn't sad enough already! From my perspective the good doctor and Mr. & Mrs. Jackson looked very uncomfortable like they would rather be somewhere else during the interview.

Bo Dereck is a big supporter of the anti-slaughter legislation, on that issue she is in our camp. I'm not too sure if this is a plus or minus, again my perspective, she doesn't hold much credibility. Although I'm sure she is a nice person if she loves horses as she claims!

Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at January 31, 2007 10:27 PM

Bonnie, I was also offended by the "Barbaro put to death" banner. I thought it was needlessly sensationalistic and insensitive. I just e-mailed the show expressing my opinion and asked them if they could rebroadcast the telecast this weekend [they often repeat shows the following weekend] with a more suitable, hopefully smaller banner.

Alex,

the video of Michael and his son is wonderful, but hard to watch right now..
I hope thats part of the film, if it is the entire film has to be amazing.
THANK YOU..

No equine expert, but if an animal has to be put down then put it to permanent sleep humanely and cremate it. No different than we treat our cats and our dogs. Longer haul will require a commitment to pay and neuter and sterilize. This is an industry being subsidized by the US taxpayer with oversight at the end not at the herding, trailering and killing.

Brbarao's humane departure should serve as a benchmark on how and when we have to let go or when the state must intervene in the case of a neglected animal

Just one opinion...

Couple of more thoughts before I say goodnight
to all and Barbaro.

Are there any stained glass people that could make Barbaro suncatchers -

Also, any thoughts about incorporating an eternal
flame/candle at his memorial site.

Until tommorrow - still need to be here with the rest of you.

Marcia in Ohio

The snowflakes that fell last night were like tears falling from us all.

No equine expert, but if an animal has to be put down then put it to permanent sleep humanely and cremate it. No different than we treat our cats and our dogs. Longer haul will require a commitment to pay and neuter and sterilize. This is an industry being subsidized by the US taxpayer with oversight at the end not at the herding, trailering and killing.

Barbaro's humane departure should serve as a benchmark on how and when we have to let go or when the state must intervene in the case of a neglected animal

Just one opinion...

This is such a wonderful site. I began posting a few weeks ago. Now, I really appreciate it. I thought that I was doing OK about all of this, until I awoke at 2 a.m., and couldn't get back to sleep. If I didn't have this site to check into now, it would be very difficult.
A most sincere thank you to all who make this happen.
Moureen Lennon
San Jose, CA

####
Cheryl G,

I don't know where the pictures are of Barbaro as a baby :( - someone posted it on this page that they saw our boy as a baby and I didn't know where to find thee pictures.

Thank you for your link- my comment is that- it was taken in Florida (probably when Michael takes his horses to Florida for the winter) and if Barbaro wasn't injured- HE WOULD PROBABLY BE IN FLORIDA RIGHT NOW WITH MICHAEL- being carefree and enjoying the sun... oh boy

If anyone can find the pictures people are talking about, can you please post????

Thank you,
Daphne

###
SAD FOB - that was truly a beautiful story...and speaks well of equality over the Rainbow Bridge...thank you!

I love the video of Barbaro, Michael, and his son. It's sort of hard to watch but still heart warming.

Oh Alex,

That is the most touching clip - when Michael is introducing his son to Barbaro- seeing how gentle Barbaro was with Michael's son, once he realized he wouldn't be hurt was so beautiful. Also, touching that Michael is teaching his son about horses and how touch Barbaro.

John, see Barbaro in his natural surroundings and getting a glimpse into his every day life is simply, PRICELESS. Thank you for sharing- it is so worth the tears. FOBs- don't you agree?

Love,
Daphne

Just saw the Hannegan Brothers video, what a great way to end my day! Have they thought about splicing their fotage together to sell. I'm sure that I'm not alone is wishing I could have some fotage to play on a TV screen.

Thank you again,
Moureen Lennon
San Jose, CA

Tears, tears, and more tears watching the video of Barbaro, Michael and his son...

Thanks to the Hennegan Brothers for sharing this wonderful footage...Thanks Alex, for this and so much more.

Lisa in Colorado

#####

Ashley and Mike C,

But well worth the tears- simply amazing.

Mike C- did you get my email???

Daphne

Thank God not all editorial writers think the same! (Like the nasty in Calif.) Here's an exerpt from what ran today on the op-ed page in the Arizona Daily Star, written by Tom Goforth of Scripps Howard News Service:

"Barbaro's brilliant rise to the top of horseracing, his sudden accident and his struggle to overcome overwhelming odds transcended sports and became part of the American cultural experience at large. His story of success, bravery and tragedy will be told as long as magnificent horses run. If there is a heavenly pasture for horses, Barbaro is there, galloping with the wind and free at last from pain."

So there, Linda troll! Is this man a psychotic case, as well?

Peggy in AZ

http://www.ntra.com/videoarchive.aspx?search=barbaro+ this is where to find the videos of barbaro as a foal. it is called barbaro remembered.

Alex

Thank you for the video of Michael and his son with Barbaro--it is priceless!!

please thank the Hennegan bros

Dear Alex,

Thank you so very much for your efforts for the last eight months to keep us informed about Barbaro. As time went on, you added information about Tim's horses, about your exercise mounts, Hawty Creek and the rest; and you told us about the big racing days in the US. You passed on Sue McMillan's truly interesting posts about British racing, including the grant Ouija Board, and all the rest.

I love the other posts too. I know we've been a demanding crowd, and have sometimes caused you to want to pack it in. But I hope that you will be interested in keeping up the other information about racing from your contacts at Fair Hill and around the world.

Thanks again. You've been indispensable.

Best wishes,
Karla Taylor
Ann Arbor MI

Alex,

Wonderful clips! The grief I feel will stay with me for a while but these clips help me to remember he was a happy horse who loved his job.

Daphnie,,

Yes I just replied....

Last night we were supposed to get an inch or two of snow. This morning when I got up there was nothing. Except on my car. My husband's car didn't have a flake on it.... My husband looked at me and just shrugged his shoulders. Think someone was sending a message?????

alex, thank you so much for the video of michael with his son and our dearest barbaro. we miss him so much. this helps us to keep feeling close to him

The video of Michael introducing his son to Barbaro opened the floodgates again.

Thank you, again, to the Hennegans for allowing us these special moments in Barbaro's life.

Dear FOB,

Just posted another clip of Barbaro for everyone from our documentary THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s50c9Nj4-Fg

This scene is actually in the film and is one of our favorites. If anyone missed the clip from last night, here's the link.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvD_Qa8FdN4

We will be posting one every might this week in the horse's honor.

And if you want to see a trailer for the movie, check out www.henneganbrothers.com

people have asked if they can pre-order the film but we don't even know where it's going to play yet. We are hoping it gets into the Tribeca Film Festival in late April.

Thanks for all your kind words. We're glad people appreciate the video.

Regards,

The Hennegan Brothers
www.henneganbrothers.com

I'm stil grief-stricken, and missing Barbaro so much. My tears continue to flow, and will for a long time. But it is a consolation that the Barbaro Effect will continue to live on -- so many wonderful, positive things have come from Barbaro -- attention to anti-horse slaughter legislation, track safety, adopting sick and injured horses, the Barbaro Fund, and the Laminitis Research Fund. Thank you, sweet Bobby, for showing us all what love and courage is all about.

Thanks for the clip of that sweet, gentle interaction between Barbaro and Michael and his son. I'm sure those were love nips. I'll be first in line when the documentary comes out.

Peggy in AZ

Another article on Dr. Richardson's valiant attempt to heal Barbaro.

"If Richardson couldn't get him fixed, no one could," Jeff Alldredge, a doctor in Scottsdale told The Arizona Republic.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/01/31/pysk.richardson/index.html

Thank you Alex, the link to Washington Post article
"Heart in the winner's circle" (see above) was written by Jane Smiley, author of Horse Heaven.

I remember a lighter time this summer when a few of us posting on this board jokingly called Barbaro "Justa Bobby" after the book's main horse character Justa Bob.

Those were, as Dr. R. said, many many good days.

C. Jaffe--


No, I'm a new Becky :) I've been lurking ever since the beginning, only posting occasionally. I've had a picture of Barbaro on my fridge ripped out from the paper since the morning of the Preakness before everything happened. He took your breath away...


My own 28 year old horse had right hind leg problems (still does) the same week Barbaro broke down, so I sorta felt extra close to him. It's sorta silly because the problems are not alike at all, but the uncertainty, and the questions of the situation are the same if it's a multi-million dollar TB or an old Appaloosa.

What a wonderful gift the film clip of Mr. Matz, his son and Barbaro is! And when you listen to the way Mr. Matz deals with the skittishness of both youngsters, you understand why he is VERY good at what he does!

***********

Moureen -

I hope you are doing well, my friend.

*******************

Marilyn in CA - Sorry about your loss. Will look forward to your return to the board. Take care.

- Jean

I would like that someone start to investigate exactly what happened at the starting gate!? I wonder why Barbaro broke throught the heavy metal gate? Did someone push him from the back!?? I am sure he hurt his leg at the point of trying to go through the starting gate, not later when he started to run! Also who profited from Barbaro injury, it was his rival Bernardini (Dubai). Please Alex and Tim talk to the Jacksons to investigate finally. They should hire a detective to see all the tapes of the Preakness.
I have been reading your web since May and miss Barbaro very much.

The barn where I have my horse lost a horse last year. It was awhile before they could come pick up the remains. I for one was tormented by the thought of Barbaro lying in a stall just waiting for someone to pick up his beautiful body or in a freezer somewhere waiting for a decision to be made as to where he would go. It may sound weirdm, but I felt more peace knowing that he was quickly and respectfully sent to his final resting place. The Jacksons loved him so...they gave him a chance for life, they wanted him to go to his rest in a quiet dignified manner. No one would question a parents decision about their child's final resting place...Barbaro was Mrs. Jackson's child. They shared him with us for so long...but they have a need and right to gather him back to them privately and the manner they so fit. I for one applaud them.

Oh Alex, I thought I saw everything, my album for Barbaro is bulging, but I just saw the clip of Michael introducing his son, thank you from the bottom of my heart, really.
Somewhere tucked in all those layers of clothing (smile) there are a pair of wings on you, too.
I keep saying thank you, Alex, but wow it's just not enough.
More hugs, Lou Ann

Smitty: I remember it well - JustaBob is one of my favorite characters anywhere...

Years ago, Jane Smiley wrote a great essay called "Everything I need to Know I learned from a Horse". Her horse taught her patience daring attentiveness, wisdom, helped her conquer fear and gave her killer biceps -Pretty great stuff...She is a wonderful writer and loves horses dearly.

Lisa in Colorado

I am with Lena. I know nothing can change the outcome but if it was a gate injury maybe changes in the future could be made? My Pops who spent his youth with my Granddad a track vet in Ohio and Kentucky...made a comment I will never forget as it all happened he said "The other horse had contact with Barbaro's rear leg." It may have been old training and instinct to see that...Not being an equine expert i have no idea...

It would just be good to know.

I love the snow on the one car story RE: Barbaro messages and the one about the horse clouds last night...beautiful

You know what I would like to see instead of a museum for Barbaro. I would like to see
The Barbaro Research Center for Laminitis
built at NBC. On the grounds would be a life size bronze statue of Barbaro, artistically landscaped green space with benches , trees &flowers blooming in every season.Memorial stones along a walk path ,etc.

Harriette

####
Shelbi at 11:09
There is not an unwanted horses issue as profiled by the pro-slaughter side. They use the "90,000 unwanted horses" for leverage. We have broken down where the horses come from into what we call "pipelines!" When you look at these pipelines and how many horses each contribute to slaughter, the number is incredibly smaller than 90,000. Example: Canada exported into the U.S. last year 6,028 horses SLATED for slaughter. Take that number off the 90,000. Also, we are in the process of eliminating the PMU mares and foals. A huge pipeline. Anywhere from 7,500 to 15,000 horses are slaughtered from that insane industry. These are only two of the pipelines.
We have a slaughter booklet that is ready for anybody to use. It has facts on slaughter and has a point-counterpoint section that features pro-slaughter arguments and our counterpoint to those arguments. It is on the National Equine Rescue Coalition website, but it is not ready for access as the website is being rebuilt and tweaking is still being done. The booklet is also in the hands of the HSUS and Mr. John Holland who wrote an incredible article that destroys pro-slaughter myths, especially the "unwanted horses" issue.
The booklet is free and you can request a copy from Michelle by e-mailing her!
michelle.tolley@wachovia.com
mtolley@ctc.net

Also, the care of the actual unwanted horses. National Equine Rescue Coalition has a plan that is underway. There are many things that will be done, including improved communications between rescues. Too much to go into.

Here's the link to Mr. Holland's article:

http://www.horse-protection.org/pdf/Relationship-of-Abuse-to-
Slaughter.pdf

As far as horses being expensive to house and maintain! A responsible person does his/her homework and through that research determines whether or not he/she should buy a horse(s). It's the irresponsible people who cause much of the problem. And speaking of being responsible, isn't it about time the human species stood up and took responsiblity for the end care of the horses who serve us? A horse serves us in the following: work horse, show horse, race horse, companion. The responsible thing to do is reward the horse for whatever service he/she gave us by providing a dignified, honorable death. Not sending him/her to a dinner plate in Europe or Asia!
Daryl!
Barbaro, I love you!

HELLO MY FOB FRIENDS...

In this difficult time, I feel the need to address an issue that often goes unnoticed, but it is one that I am unfortunately qualified on which to speak. The subject is DEPRESSION. You may be surprised to learn that "the class clown" battles this disease, each and every day, as do millions of Americans.

The UPENN VETMED SITE has generously posted links to various organizations to assist you with this issue at this difficult time. Whether you suffer only slightly or are in the grips of a major episode, do not treat this condition lightly. It is real. Do not hesitate to get help.

Here is the link to the UPENN page...

http://www.vet.upenn.edu/

I will be starting a thread in the forum for those who wish to help or simply vent. Keep in touch with those who have suddenly dropped off the radar, and, even those who appear all too together may be in trouble as well. We are all in this together and our mental health is something to be taken seriously at this time.

Please, get help. This is nothing to be ashamed of, and it is not the time to suffer alone in silence.

Thank you...

DEAR FELLOW FOBs: I read Linda's post...the so-called "troll"... and I'm not so sure she IS a troll.

I've never owned a horse and don't know anything about the horse business except what I'm learning here. And, another poster wrote about the insurance companies having a "say" in Barbaro's treatment. Could that be true? I know we have knowledgeable, reputable horse people among us here, so can some of you "in the know" clue me in? Does Linda make some valid points? I thought that ALL of Bobby's medical procedures were strictly up to the Jacksons and Dr. R. I thought that the decision to put him down was strictly up to those 3 people. This info, if even slightly true, is unsettling, to say the least.

I'm a person who can take the truth. I might not like the truth, but I can take it. I don't like facts to be glossed over. Is there some truth in what Linda says regarding this?

Another thing -- and I hope I'm not misunderstood here -- b/c all of you know from my lengthy, HEARTSICK posts these last two days, how DEEPLY DISTRAUGHT I am over Barbaro's death, but I think I understand her statement about how we're all coming apart at the seams over Barbaro, whom most of us have never even seen in person, including me, yet we're not ACTIVELY engaged in mourning for all the other horses who break down every day.

That's true, Linda, but, of course, there's a psychological and emotional reason for that. Even though we didn't know Barbaro personally, we FEEL as though we did, whereas we have absolutely NO "personal relationship" with the other horses who break down on a daily basis. Plus, they're put down immediately on the track, before we even have a chance to get to "know" them. Not to mention the fact that they were never in the WORLD SPOTLIGHT like Barbaro was. He was, after all, the Kentucky Derby winner, and we
witnessed his breakdown LIVE, on national TV... on the WORLD stage.

Now that doesn't mean that we don't care what happens to these other horses. Obviously, we do care about them, or we would not be working for safer track surfaces and the anti-slaughter bills. It just means that because of the differences between those horses and Barbaro, we don't get to "know" them, so we don't develop an "emotional tie" with them.

In contrast, we've been on an emotional roller coaster with Barbaro for close to NINE MONTHS!!
We didn't plan on this...we just got interested and involved in following his saga, day-to-day, and "falling in love" with his fighting spirit, his "personality", and his courage...day-after-day, and hour-by-hour sometimes.

Clearly, Barbaro struck a chord with the whole world. But that wouldn't have happened had the whole world not had a chance to "meet" him.

If the truth be told...if Barbaro had not made it through the initial operation on May 20, when most of us had only recently gotten to "know" him, and "love" him from the Kentucky Derby or from his earlier races, we would NOT have grieved THIS HARD had he been put down then. Nor, I assume, would Dr. R.

It's the incredibly LONG fight he went through...and the long struggle that we witnessed...on a daily basis...for almost 9 months, to save his life...only to have it all collapse and end in a total disaster. And it ALL took place on the WORLD STAGE, as he vied for the Triple Crown!

Where Linda is coming from is kind of how I feel sometimes when a WHOLE town suddenly wants to adopt a particular dog or cat that is brought to the attention of the public, because of some heartwarming story that a reporter did, yet all year long, other animals languish in shelters in that same city, without even getting so much as one person interested.

A shelter worker and I were discussing this one time. We wondered...where are all those people all year long? If they wanted to save an animal so badly, why hadn't they gone to the shelter to pick one out?

Why is it that the abused cat or dog on the nightly news, that was rescued from some cruel fate, is the one that EVERYONE in that city... and even in nearby towns... are burning down the phones lines to adopt? They want THAT PARTICULAR ANIMAL.

But where were these people all year long when the other sweet pets, just like that one, were being euthanized by the thousands!

The reason is the same: That particular pet had the spotlight placed on it. Otherwise, "out of sight, out of mind". So I think this is what Linda is angry about.

But Linda, when one animal is brought to the attention of the public, it always results in more attention being brought to bear on the other unfortunate animals who were not so lucky as to have THEIR inividual stories told on the world stage.

Shelters find that they suddenly get more people adopting during those times that public attention is focused on one particular animal. Since they can't all adopt that one animal, they realize, "Gee, I can give a home to another pet at that shelter." Or, "I can make a financial donation to benefit animals.

So, that's what's happened with Barbaro. We couldn't save him, but, as so many others have said, the following that he created, will result in, and already has resulted in many more horses being saved in various other situations. Less breakdowns might occur b/c of improved track surfaces and perhaps letting horses mature a little longer before racing them. Slaughter horses are being saved too, now that that issue has become more widely known. Just today a guy posted that he did not even know he lived close to a slaughter house in Illinois, were it not for all this attention showered on Barbaro.

So yes, Linda, we do feel awful for those other horses, now that we know about their plights too, it's just that Barbaro happened to be the one -- for whatever reason -- who was chosen by the universe to lead the parade.

Jason Shandler has a great article on the NTRA website, about thinking of all the other horses who died this year, on the track and in slaughterhouses. I hope that people don't find it demeaning when he talks about Barbaro being only "one horse"; I think he means that many horses deserve the love, sympathy, and compassion that Barbaro received.

I can't do that blue thing, and I don't want to mess with the site by posting a long link, but go to ntra.com and scroll down to Jason Shandler's article.

Teresa in Brooklyn/Saratoga

Hi, FOB's!

###
Am trying out my new laptop...hooray!

I drove down to NBC this morning...and found out I was out of memory on the digital. So I took 27 pics of the fence at NBC with a disposable camera - pics should be ready on Saturday and will have them saved to CD. Will let you know how they came out. It does appear that some cards from elementary school children were put up recently...also found some beautiful letter-like posters that had such beautiful sentiments on them. The other camera was used today up at the ranch getting pics of Windy, Stormy and Ghost.

I found the tears flowed more today than I thought they would...felt like they were washing some of the grief out of my heart. Am tired...really tired and am feeling the winter storm coming in. Tomorrow I can rest...finally.

I am amazed to see people starting to put Barbaro, his life and his leaving into a beautiful perspective. Back in October, I went to a energy healing workshop given by a very gifted woman in the area. She gave us this to think about: We come here to learn many lessons - we sign "soul contracts" to stay here until the lessons are either fully experienced or learned. Then our souls shed the body and go to God. I don't know if this helps anybody. I'm still thinking that thru myself.

Has anybody been "feeling" Barbaro? I've been reading about those who have been blessed to see things like rainbows, beautiful lights, etc. etc. I have been perceiving him since Monday night and the feeling is one of total peace and love - his heart is overflowing with that love for all of those in his family and the FOB's who will always love him.

Don't want to get too emotional right now.

I love the idea of the museum. I'm toying with the idea of continuing to write a series of children's stories and titling the series "Healing Horses". Its a thought (and I still am searching for an illustrator for my current stories...if any FOB's have artistic talent, I'd love to talk with you. I'd rather work with an FOB who would give the artwork the love and respect it deserves. Sherry/AZ was it you who has the artist friend? If so, please e-mail me with her name again. My mind is fried.). It would give us a place to go and it would help educate the public (and the children especially) to many issues of equine and animal welfare. I would be honored to not only donate money but my time to work there.

I've rambled on long enough.

Prayers and love to the Jacksons, Dr R (the CBS interview broke my heart), Alex, Tim, Peter, Michael, Edgar, Eduardo, NBC staff, KF...

We're gonna be OK.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

True, now is the time to start Barbaro's legacy--they already are in the thoroughbred racing industry--the powers that be are starting a fund for laminitis research. Yeah!
I read a well-written letter to the editor in the NY Times in support of the bill to end the slaughter. Sent off a letter to the Courier Times today with the same subject and will do one to the Philadelphia Inquirer tonight. For Barbaro. His "mom" is already way ahead of us.
Mrs Jackson, you are wonderful.
Let Barbaro's light shine.

Hi, Shelbi

Quoting you here to try to address your points

**************************************************
"All you people backing this legislation against horse slaughter -- Who will take care of these unwanted animals? I agree it is a horrible issue but a bigger issue is that you have no alternative plan to offer. There are thousands of unwanted horses in this country every year. Sad to say the breed associations (the thoroughbred association isn't solely at fault) are a huge contributors to the problem.

Breeding is big business in this country for all breeds of horses. The problem originates with the breeding of so many of these horses in the first place.

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't that a reason for the spay/neuter efforts for dogs and cats? To reduce the unwanted population.

Horses are expensive to maintain and house. What are your alternatives to slaughter? Who is going to maintain these unwanted animals?

Posted by: Shelbi at January 31, 2007 11:09 PM"

**************************************************

First of all "unwanted animals" doesn't truly characterize those who end up in slaughter houses. Some, true, but not many. Many end up as "unwanted", as you describe them, and in search of adoption or fostering. Many of these horses become the purchase of kill brokers, who are contracted/hired by the slaughter houses, for the express purpose of outbidding the potential adopters, in order to become "product". There is no way to put a number on how many surrendered , lost or horses that are otherwise acquired by the auctioneers, but let's just say it's a high percentage. Same is true of those who are surrendered as they are considered no longer "useful" for racing, jumping, working, whatever, that are intended to be "put up for adoption.

By the way, there's a neat story in a link Alex provided earlier about a horse who was rescued who was going to be sent to Canada.

Back to the "unwanted" horses. A fair number are stolen. There's no other polite way to put it. There is a lot of black marketing in slaughter. Horses have disappeared from pastures, paddocks, barns, stables, and ended up in slaughter houses. Those are the ones we "know" about. There have to countless others who were obtained through other dishonest means.

The proponents of antislaughter advocate alternatives for "unwanted" horses, such as adopting out as companions, for therapy horses, pleasure horses, virtually everything imaginable.

There's a very grey area in the "surrenduring" part that has to do with owners who simply don't want their horses anymore. Why is the kill broker a viable alternative to them? That's a really unanswerable question. Is the comparatively small sum paid to sell a horse to a kill broker a good alternative to paying vet bills, even for euthanasia? It is apparent that some think so, but why that is, at least from someone who believes having a horse in your life is a birth to transition proposition, with all the expenses that come into play during that time being a big part of it, I do not know. That's the part that I have a hard time with. How do you educate people that having horses comes with expenses and if you can't accept that responsibility, then you shouldn't have them. That translates into all areas of animal companionship, as well, as you mentioned, that dogs and cats are neutered. Colts can and probably should be gelded if they are not to be bred, and probably only a very few representations should be if they are primarily companion animals, and mares just should not be bred. It's kind of an age-old thing, in which mares are bred because the family wants the kids to have the experience of seeing a live birth, wants to have the baby, and then when the baby gets older the baby becomes more expensive and becomes a burden. Thank God mares don't have litters. If a Great dane can have 12 pups, imagine how many foals a mare could have if she were to be constructed in the same manner as a dog, or a cat for that matter.

Anyway, to say there are no alternatives isn't exactly true. The alternatives are going to require a lot of work to sell, but getting the point across that slaughter, for the small amount of money that is realized for one horse, and allowing that horse to be killed in a most inhumane fashion under the most horrendous conditions and circumstances, hopefully will serve to drive home the point.

I wrote a poem last year. I'll copy it here. It was written to address the target group of people who surrender horses to kill brokers because they don't want to be bothered with finding an alternative means to rehome the horse.

****************************************************************************************************
Please come back for me….I don’t like it here

You loaded me in the trailer..as you have hundreds of times…
We’ve ridden the trails, the meadows, the beaches, quiet roads, quiet days…
You didn’t stay with me this day.. You left me here in this place….
Please come back for me,…I don’t like it here
There are many like me…did you think I needed their company?
So many..so close, so warm, yet some shiver…
Some look frightened..some tired…some bewildered, like me
Please come back for me…I’m frightened too
We’ve been together for so long..I can’t help but look for you..
I want to see you stroll back, halter and lead in hand to take me away…
I promise I’ll never resist the trailer ever again…
Please come back for me..
Your children wove their tiny fingers through my mane…
They sat on my back, their laughter like bright sunshine…
It was long ago, they’ve gone on with their own lives..
Do I have no more purpose in yours?
I promise to stay well..I won’t eat so much…
If you keep your commitment to me that you swore to when I was young..
Love me, feed me well, I’ll do my part..I won’t colic, I won’t founder, I swear..
Please come back for me..I don’t think I can live without you

lena....

I said it from that day too...I blamed the vet at Pimlico for the situation he was in.
I let it go because he was going so well and I didn't want to jinx things. But, why wasn't he given time to see if he was injured??
He was never given the time to see if he was distressed?
They loaded him right up and off they went.
The field should have been backed out of the gate and delay the start, what made them rush?? TV??

And God forbid they would have scratched a 1-5 favorite, the millions bet on exotics and W-P-S would of had to been refundded??.

SO WHAT??

So what happend , happened that day. I said it when it happened but kind of stopped because he was doing so well..
But like I said I'd bet it all began with that break thru the gate..

Below is Lisa's address for the Barbaro bracelet:
Bella Regalo
Fans of Barbaro
51 Winthrop Street
Suite 5
Rehoboth MA 02769

To the Hennegan Bros.

If the rest of your film is as sensitively
handled as the clip you shared tonight
you will surely have success.

So lovely, but the composure I maintained all day
is now gone...

Thank you.

Why do I think animals go to heaven?

1. How can there be a paradise without butterflies, birds, horses, and all the other beautiful creatures (except, perhaps, serpents)? The majority of the human race appreciates the beauty and wonder of animals, and would want to see them on the other side. Paradise couldn't be paradise without them, right?

2. I have heard that animals cannot go to heaven because they don't have a soul. When you love an animal, it becomes a part of your soul and your essence. Your soul is infinite and good and by your efforts to live each day in the spirit of peace and benovolence, you share your soul with the world and all the living things you encounter, and this is what connects us all, and this connection exists in the afterlife. There are so many people in the world that love animals that this love brings animals and people together in the afterlife.

3. A common thread of many religions is that mankind has to earn his or her way into heaven by the way they conduct themselves here in the mortal world. We are, after all, born with original sin. Animals are born into this world and live out their lives in complete truth and innocence. (They do not bear the burden of original sin). I think that qualifies them for a "free pass" into heaven, don't you?

These are just my thoughts. I am not all that schooled in religion, but I really do believe animals go to heaven, and when Barbaro ascended there they surely had to make a whole new wing for his glorious soul.

HERE IS THE DISCUSSION THREAD FOR HELPING AND FOR GRIEVING...

General - DEPRESSION- PLEASE HELP

The tread is for anyone who feels the need for help or for those who want to help at this time.

" Michael introduces his son to Barbaro "

Oh Alex thank you for that, Michael was so wonderful with our Barbaro, and his son.
Barbaro had never seen a little person.
It was scary, for the both of them.

How are you doing Alex?
Today was a little better for me I think, at times!
Can not read all the post, it hurts too much right now.
And to the entire FOB, with time the pain will get better, never really goes away.
Sending love and good wishes to everyone here.

This is really tuff; my heart goes out to everyone who took care of Barbaro.
Can not imagine there hurt. God be with the Jackson’s, Matz and his children,
Dr. R, and all who love him.

I've been watching the news on Bobby horse since the accident. I'm sad at the outcome, heart broken actually. I just can't believe the big guy is gone. I'll remember him as a horse with a sense of humor! I loved seeing him nip at his caretakers and then almost laugh out loud.
God love you Barbaro! We love you in death as we did during your short, wonderful life.

###
Brenda loved it! I think so too!

Ok..I thought I had it together, just a little bit, but looking at the clip from the Hennegan bros. film with Michael and his son meeting Barbaro, put me over the edge...again.

It's All love.

Alex what is on Barbaro's back in that clip?

Wow, did someone say that La Ville Rouge just foaled and the colt is on the ground? Is this for real? Because if it is my imagination is running wild with ideas of regeneration, rebirthing, etc. Anyone know about this?

Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at January 31, 2007 9:58 PM

############

Bonnie-I read somewhere in the past day or two a report from the manager of the Farm where La Ville Rouge is staying that she was due to give birth to a colt by Dynaformer in the Spring.

#############

I just wanted to join those who did not like seeing "Barbaro Put to Death" during the Larry King Show. That was horrible. How could they not bother to research the proper wording?

Posted by: Kellye at January 31, 2007 10:03 PM

########

Kellye-I too was appalled. It made Bobby sound like Saddam Hussein. I'm so glad that the Jackson and Dr. Dean couldn't see what was on the screen

#########

Hannegan Bros-I wish you the best of luck with your film. My son is a Film Student. He is currently in pre-production on his Senior Film project. :)

#########

I keep hoping that I will wake-up from this nightmare. I want my (((Bobby))) back..

Thanks to all FOB to sharing your collective love and sorrow for "our" boy.

((((Bobby))) I miss you Champ.

(((Alex))) Thank you for being our beacon of light in this dark time.

Lyn Gilbert, what is your email address, please

Harriette
email me @hgill@qx.net

MIKE C: I tend to agree. I've always wondered if that premature break through the gate is what caused the problem, and why no one examined him. Even the TV announcer said that the magnets that keep those gates closed are extremely strong...that it takes powerful strength to break through.

If it ever happens again, maybe now they'll stop the race and take a look. It seems something like that should be an automatic "scratch".

Good Night Alex and thank you for all the coverage of our boy....and holding us up! (((ALEX)))

Bobbycakes ..I know you hear me..I love you sweet CHAMPION!! See you one day!

Brenda
Jesus rode a white horse in Revelation....there are horses in that book which is a future look into Heaven!!! Wonderful thought???
Christian Scripture also says "all creatures over the land and under the sea " will be joined
together...the word "all creatures" convinces me that we will see Barbaro again.

(((ALL FOB's)))

Alex, thank you so much for keeping this site open so that we can all grieve, reminisce, and just remember our beautiful boy!

Ah sweet Barbaro!...you never meant to make us cry, but cry we have and cry we will. We will keep our promises to you. We will work on the anti slaughter bill, we will donate to the Laminitis fund, the Barbaro fund, pester racetracks to install safer tracks, help those who find homes for the lame, the homeless, the unwanted, the slaughter bound.

And now my angel babycakes, it's time to say goodnight. Your cloud is ready, may the angels sing you to sleep. Rest easy my sweet Barbaro. Hugs and smoochies

Barbaro is free and running on 4 good legs.....he has crossed the rainbow bridge and will meet the Jacksons, Michael, Dr. R etc. when they cross over. I have the ashes of 7 of my cats and they to be buried with me when I go along with my other live cats when they too cross the bridge. Perhaps Mrs. Jackson feels the same about Barbaro and that's why the cremation. He will always be honored and never forgotten by the F O B's for sure. Off to light candles.......He has been my screen saver for some time.......I Believe in Barbaro!

It's been another long day. That clip with Michael introducing his son to Barbaro was very touching. I enjoyed it but it really made me cry. I've been trying hard not to cry but after watching that clip the flood gates opened. I guess all that pent of grief had to come out. I don't think you can get over grief until you cry. That's why God gave us the ability to cry, so we can heal from such heartbreaking things as this.

God thank you for blessing us with Barbaro for a short while.

cindy a

PAMMIE, THANKS FOR THAT THREAD YOU POSTED ABOUT TEMPORARY DEPRESSION (BARBARO). I AM SO SAD ABOUT THIS LOSS. I'VE HAD TIMES WHERE I'M OK FOR 4 OR 5 HOURS, BUT THEN I FALL APART FOR 4 OR 5 HOURS. I HAVEN'T BEEN EATING, I HAVEN'T BEEN SLEEPING WELL ETC.. SO I REALLY APPRECIATE YOU ADDRESSING THIS ISSUE!!

LOVE YOU,
CHERYL G

This is beautiful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xihUOmvTybc

I hope you are all doing OK - whatever that is for you. I know the healing process can be long, but Barbaro would want us to go on and fight just like he did. He never gave up and we musn't either.

OMG - this latest Hennegan Brothers clip is beyond words. You can hear Barbaro "fooffing" or "blowing" while Michael's son is patting his shoulder. Priceless. CJ

Hola Barbaro Nation

The Barbaro effect continues......I just spent over an hour talking to a FOB who lives close by. A bright, funny and loving woman who lifted my spirits and understood my pain in a way non FOB's never could. Great for my heart and mind. This site is one of Barbaro's gifts.

Talking about minds I would like to point to PAMELA"S great post AT 12.34. Most of us will grieve and go on. Some of us will experience depression. She is right. If you feel like you cannot handle the pain: talk to someone. You deserve it.

I still miss our champ fiercely but I know that he is at peace and whole. God bless all who love Barbaro. God bless BARBARO.

I heard Barbaro didn't break through the gate. That he nudged it and it opened. I hate even bringing this up though. I always felt like Mike did. I wondered things but never wanted to talk about it because I didn't want to not think positive for Barbaro. The vet said he did examine Barbaro and he wasn't lame after coming trhough the gate.

RE: Why do I think animals go to heaven?

Thank you Debbie L.A. !!

Believe!

Brenda

Barbaro I love you forever!

Beautiful song lyrics....I believe this is waht Barbaro may be saying to each of us....

I'll Be There

Over mountains, over trees
Over oceans, over seas
Across the deserts
I'll be there

In a whisper on the wind
On the smile of a new friend
Just think of me
And I'll be there

Don't be afraid, oh my love
I'll be watching you from above
And I'd give all the world tonight to be with you
'Cause I'm on your side, and I still care
I may have died, but I've gone nowhere Just think of me, and I'll be there

On the edge of a waking dream
Over rivers, over streams
Through wind and rain
I'll be there

Across the wide and open sky
Thousands of miles I'd fly
To be with you
I'll be there

In the breath of a wind that sighs
Oh, there's no need to cry
Just think of me,
And I'll be there

God bless you Alex. You are so stalwart and reliable as the day is long. What on earth would we do without you. I hope you maintain this site, for we all would be so lost without you and without the community we have found here. We have a lot of work to do, and we are a Barbaro Nation thanks greatly in part to you. You enabled us to be able to come together and share our love for Barbaro and, in turn, to use it as a unifying force for action.

Thanks for all of the beautiful posts, FOBs. This is the first day I have not absolutely sobbed through (oh tears, absolutely - and they will flow for years, no doubt). It is so special to be able to come together and give support for our dear beloved Boy.

And goodnight to you, sweet Barbaro. I know you are at peace. My heart breaks for all those who miss you, but we know that you really are not that far away.

Dear friends

let's please not go down that path again. It has been said over and over again that breaking through the gate did not cause the injury to Barbaro's right hind.

Remember, the most astute person at hand at the time was Edgar. He would NOT have allowed Barbaro to be reloaded into the gate had he been injured. He heard the injury at the split second it happened. Way out of the gate. After the start. The REAL start. Please, it won't change the outcome in any event and doesn't help us to go down that "shoulda woulda coulda" road. It just won't change anything.

###

Hilary,

Thank you so much. Barbaro was so cute!!! Thank you!! Little Barbaro!

Love, Daphne

Hi Marky,

You see, I couldn't not check the boards!! It was great talking to you tonight. Have a blessed night.

The Barbaro effect......

Alex, thank you so very much for making this website available to all the FOBs. Please keep this site available. We FOBs need to stick together now more than ever to carry on Barbaro's legacy, i.e., passage of anti-slaughter legislation, fighting for better racing safety for the horses, research for laminitis cure, and many other causes. Blessings on the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson and all who served and loved Barbaro.

Hi Barbaro Nation,

I was thinking about the depression aspect of our loss and it being winter and all. Suggestion:

*Employee Assistance Programs at work, usually free and confidential
*Many good books on grief and loss of an animal or a child at the library and bookstore
*Grief counselors and support groups in your community/your local vet may also know of support groups

And remember this will pass when we get to Acceptance, not to say there will not be a pang always but spring will come...and Barbaro would want us to revel in the green grass and buttercups

hI EVERYBODY I WAS NEVER A RACING FAN BUT I FELL IN LOVE WITH A BEAUTIFUL HORSE NAMED BARBARO AND NOW HE IS GONE. I DON'T KNOW HOW TO COPE WITH THIS EXCEPT TO KNOW BARBARO IS IN HEAVEN AND FEELING VERY GOOD AND HAPPY MARGE

Barbaro's message to each of us??? Perhaps....

I'll Be There

Over mountains, over trees
Over oceans, over seas
Across the deserts
I'll be there

In a whisper on the wind
On the smile of a new friend
Just think of me
And I'll be there

Don't be afraid, oh my love
I'll be watching you from above
And I'd give all the world tonight to be with you
'Cause I'm on your side, and I still care
I may have died, but I've gone nowhere
Just think of me, and I'll be there

On the edge of a waking dream
Over rivers, over streams
Through wind and rain
I'll be there

Across the wide and open sky
Thousands of miles I'd fly
To be with you
I'll be there

In the breath of a wind that sighs
Oh, there's no need to cry
Just think of me,
And I'll be there

Sorry if this is a repost, my computer is acting up

My 15 year old adopted Standardbred mare raced. She broke a bone in her leg but thank goodness it was treatable and she had a good owner who gave her a chance and did not sell her to slaughter. She never raced again but she delights me every day. I heard about slaughter, but I guess I turned my eyes and ears away from something I didn't want to see or hear. How do I get invovled? Who do I write to? What can I do to help? Barbaro's life has brought this issue to the forefront. It is something positive I can do. Send me some info. I'm in the fight!!!!!

Oh Alex
Thank you so much for the link to the clip with Michael, Barbaro, and Michael's son. It is priceless beyond words. Michael's way with Barbaro and his son, and Barbaro making that noise? He's so alive and strong, and you can see how Barbaro gradually begins to relate to Michael's son, so precious, all three of them!

Crying again ....

Haven't looked through all the posts; has Mary S posted since Monday morning?

With all being said and thought for our Big B, I just hope and pray that someone memorialize this beautiful soul - in his victories, his fight and the passions he stirred. Emotions are too raw, but the if the key "lovegivers" in Bobby's life could one day, get a book written and printed out - his life, anecdotes, testimonials, race reports, transcriptions of the love for him found in various forums and channels, pictures and his legacy and the causes people have now championed because of and due to our Big B. People like Dr. R, the Jacksons, Michael Matz, Edgar Prado and the NBC staff, could all have their stories to share with us - and have all the proceeds of the sale of this book go to the stop of slaughtering as well as given to horse rescue organizations, NBC and other NBC-like organizations. Something to think of down the line and I'm willing to help anyone, time and money wise, to get this Bravo Barbaro book started. I think it would be good to have the people who truly love him start it, rather than having this pushed out by the big printing houses so they can just sell it for movie royalties. Any ideas Big B lovers?

ohmygod. The Hennegan clip with Matz and his little son...what lovely, heart-breaking footage. Thank you Alex, and Brothers--and Michael for that matter--for this intimate look at the great Barbaro and that little child being gently introduced to one another. Damn, damn. We all just want him back....

I just can't believe he's gone. He seems so much alive watching the video of him with Michael and his son. What a special horse with such special connections.

Had to leave for awhile to lighten my mind....went to the gym, cried during my workout again because something in a song triggered thoughts...

Took awhile to catch up here. So many lovely thoughts. SAD FOB, I love your story.

Marcia, if you make the Barbaro quilts, I would love one.

I am so touched by the thought of the little schoolchildren raising money for laminitis research. I wonder if this could be expanded?

The clip of Michael and Bobby and Michael's little boy...tears...trying to think positive. That Michael's son can grow up remembering what it was like to meet Barbaro and stroke his velvet nose--that makes me smile....I think Peter Brette's little boy may have met him. I remember Alex posting long ago that that is how Barbaro got the nickname "Bobby"--because Peter's little boy couldn't yet say "Barbaro".

I also loved Michael's son with Barbaro clip.It shows how good Michael is at explaining the horse's attitude when he doesn't know what's going to happen.I hope the Hennegan brothers have success getting the documentary out.The clips have been outstanding.
To what address have people been sending cards to the Jacksons. I thought I saw where Rachel at Kennett Florist is forwarding cards.I was still in too shocked/daze and can't quite remember.
Thanks

If you haven't already looked--please look at the video linked up above by Alex in his Update No.
1422.

More tears, but this time tears of joy.

Mike C.

I will never foget your discription of seeing Barbaro... how he made you stop in your tracks.
Since I value your opinon, may I run a few things past you later. I need to get home now,but would love to email you later would you mind?

Nancy,

One of the first actions you can take is to go to the Humane Society's website: www.hsus.org for information about the anti slaughter legislation that is coming up. As you may know it passed in the House of Representatives last year but never was voted on in the Senate. We have some newly elected members of congress with the new year so we are starting all over at square one. Find out who your congressional officials are in your state if you don't already know. Those are the people you will want to contact asking them to become co-sponsors of the bill and to vote for it when it comes before the congress. Different people on this site are starting to post info about the new bills. Shelly from California is a good source as is Daryl, Marilyn, and several others so keep reading about it here.

Thanks for joining us on the path to end horse slaughter. Many of us believe Big B was the
one who helped this movement gain momentum and of course the fact his owners have spoken out about it.

Alex, thanks for the lovely picture of Barbaro to greet us everyday and all your postings and interviews. They are so helpful and comforting.

Not being a horse expert, I was wondering if it is unusual to cremate a thoroughbred horse? I know Secretariat, Ruffian and Man O'War were buried intact while others it was the head, legs and heart. I'm just wondering why the Jacksons decided on cremation and why they didn't mention it on the Larry King Show? We just had our pug cremated and it was a reassuring experience. She is with us again.

I love the idea of a horse museum or a laminitis research center. Whatever the Barbaro Nation can do, I know we will.

I am also behind improvements at the tracks and racing the horses at age 4, when their bones are fully developed.

Off to light another candle for Barbaro. We will never forget him.

Liz from Queens, NY

Missing Sweet Bobby J more than ever.

Matt

Thanks, Alex, for posting the most recent Hennegan brothers clip. What a special moment to witness and again we see a little more of what made Barbaro so special. One thing to read about it, yet another to actually see it . . .

Wanted to let everyone know that I just noticed that Alex also posted photos taken today, I think, of Barbaro's full yearling brother -- they are posted on the discussion boards. Beautiful little guy -- has more than just a star on his head -- but looks so very familiar, and comforting, too.

Thanks for all you FOBs -- reading your sentiments these last several days has meant everything!

Thanks Dannie, that's great information. This is big for many of us and it helps to talk about it.

Beyond words....is the video of Michael introducing his son to Barbaro!
What a gift!
Many Thanks!
jan

Good evening dear FOB's -- Good evening in Heaven Sweet Barbaro, I read as many posts as I can a few times a day but will never catch up. They are so heartfelt & comforting. All I think about is how much I miss Barbaro...I even dream about him. As soon as I think I'm done crying, I read an article, see his picture or footage of him running & romping and the tears return.

I hope Dr. Dean is doing okay. He is a unique & gifted man who has touched greatness.

We all miss you Big B, but our grief will help motivate the work that needs to be done.
I too would buy a book that contains all of the posts & anything else that could be included. It is all so very precious.

I'll have to turn in soon. We all must take care of ourselves dear friends, so we can be healthy and do the work before us. I think of you all, all the time & thank God for you. If it wasn't for you all, my Mom & my honey, I don't know what I'd do.

I look up into the Heavens each night dear Barbaro, looking for you. I always showed your photo on the mantle to my guests & proudly said, "That's my boy!" I'll always say that, Barbaro. I send you a shower of kisses, hugs, nuzzles, & ear scratchies. Have a beautiful night, Sweet Barbaro, running among the stars & romping in the green fields of Heaven with your friends. Nitey nite Bobby, Baby Face, Precious Barbaro, my hero & inspiration.

Bloodhorse talk to Jackson's

Dear Alex and all FOBs,

Today, like every other day, I came to the site to check the updates, and drink my coffee. What I have been doing today is no different than the last 150+ or so days...basically since I found out about his website and the updates on Barbaro.

What was different today is that I actually had to search for Alex's Fair Hill daily activities and his recap--and for a few moment's reading, I thought it wasn't going to be part of the site anymore until I scrolled right down to the bottom and found it at last.

In that moment's looking, I had an insight into my own grief for Barbaro, and why this has had such an impact on me. A few years ago, my Mother became ill with cancer. It was fast, and sudden. I gave up work to help my father care for her and we both were consumed with taking care of her at home and using hospice to help us keep her safe and comfortable. For three months and 16 days, we never gave up some belief in hope that she would pull through. Despite awful odds and her physical deterioration my Father and I needed our own hope closely guarded within us both. When my Mother passed away, we were all there, yet still I remember feeling so surprised. Though I knew she was dying, I never thought it would actually happen (if that makes sense.)

In the days, weeks, and months afterward, I remember feeling so empty, and part of that emptiness was that I had nothing to do anymore. In caring for my Mother, my days and nights were about medicine, schedules, doctors, and keeping my Father buoyed up. When Mom died, none of this needed doing any more and it was the odd interruption of my routine that was missing.

My long-winded point is this, I haven’t forgotten Barbaro, and will continue to grieve in ways that are appropriate for me, for as long as I need. However, what I do need is part of my rotinue-Alex’s updates on his life at Fair Hill! Alex, please, you have reawakened my slumbering love of horses (it’s been dormant since my horse was taken away from me at age 14.) Please Alex, continue to tell us about your days at Fair Hill; your mounts, your lovely descriptions of the surroundings, your thoughts on the new track surface, and the little millions of things that make up your day. I’ll never forget Barbaro, Ruffian, and Secretariat, some of the truly transcendent horses I’ve encountered in my life time, but I hope that you can introduce us all to the charms of the horses we’ve yet to see.

Sincerely,
Lori M. in Santa Rosa, CA

To Harriette Brillianthawk in Lexington,
On one of the saddest days of my life, you brought me joy, and I will never forget it. When I read your post with all of our expressions of love for Barbaro, followed by the narration of Barbaro's first day in heaven, I couldn't help but smile. The hole in my looms large and tears still overcome me when I least expect it, but now, from your post, I can see Barbaro running free, eating buttercups, and feeling the sun on his back again, and then checking on all of us instead of us checking on him.

How can I ever thank you?

Alex, In case you missed it, the New York Times had a beautiful editorial about Barbaro in yesterday's paper:

Barbaro's brother is beautiful. Apparently knows how to work a camera too just like his big bro.

OMG.

SABRINA HAS ADDED A NEW PICTURE AT THE BOTTOM OF BARBARO'S PHOTO PAGE ON HER SITE.

GO NOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Just my take on a few things. Someone the other day posted the stages of grief. Denial, Anger, Depression and then finally acceptance.

For me I think I went through the first two on Monday. Those of us who question Dr. Morrison do so out of denial and out of anger. Denial that maybe it was to late maybe Dr. Morrison should have been called in back in July to deal with the left hind. Anger in that we just don't know how Barbaro was at one time ready to leave New Bolton and the next put down. That cast being put on was a definited turning point and there is no denying that. Those of you who are angry at us who bring it up are dealing with denial and anger and that is ok it is all part of the process. Perhaps Dr. Morrison did what needed to be done but it was done to late. It was said that they knew it would have to be done because that part of his hoof had not grown back correctly but should that not have been looked at earlier??? When he was in the sling and using the sling. Why wasn't the expert on hooves brought in back in July?? There are alot of question that we will never have answers to. And the biggest question of all is the one that hurts the most. What happened??? How could he be going to leave the hospital one time and put down the next. What caused this.

I still am dealing with some anger and denial but right now I am also in the depression part. In a way there is an acceptance that yes he needed to be put down and not suffer. But why did he get to the point where he was suffering. What went wrong??? That is where the anger and the denial is.

Dr. R has said numberous times now since this that if a horse came in now with the same injury he thinks he could save it. Why??? What would he do differently??? What did he do wrong??? Not to put blame on anyone just to know what went wrong. You don't know what will work til you try it. To second quess does no one any good cause who knows what would have worked or not worked. But what is it that would be done differently now??

All I know is Barbaro was doing well he was comfortable until that cast was put on him. We all know that. All a person has to do is go read the updates at New Bolton and you will see that is when the downward things started to happen. I believe it was something that needed to be done. What I think is it was done to late and that he should have been in the sling again while his left hoof healed after they had removed the damaged part again. Whether he could stand on it or not he should have been in that sling.

It hurts it just hurts so much cause our Bobby was suppose to live he was suppose to survive. We were suppose to be able to go visit him some day.

I am sorry I don't meant to blame anyone. I know they all did their best but when you grieve you go through denial, anger, depression and acceptance.

GO TO THIS NOW, and scroll to bottom.

http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/Barbaro.htm

Fellow FOB's:

Trying to catch up on all of the posts, but find it hard to do at night. I still can't look at the site during the day at work. (1. not suppose to and 2. can't keep myself collected enough to do it at the office)

To Leslie and Laurie my fellow Minnesotans, if this site goes down can you keep me in the loop on what's happening? Email me at bjb0223@aol.com. I can't get into the forums and chat. But I would love to be involved in any Memorial that we decide on. (Benches, trees, museums...)

I'm not blessed to have the creative abilities of some on this site, but I can write out checks and pull out credit cards with the best of them.

I did mention late on Monday night, after Linnie mentioned the $29 donation to the Laminitis Fund, that if 10 people donated in Memory/Honor of Barbaro, I would donate an additional $580. So let me know at the address listed above, if I need to make another donation.

I still feel this huge void and emptiness in my day, but I find some solace in knowing that Barbaro is with us all and perfect again as he should be.

### Sheila: I think it was you that mentioned the Chocolate Labs. (They are nuts...) I need to take my boy, Chip out for his walk tonight. Although I love him dearly, Mom and Canine are having a difficult time over the past couple of days, ever since he's claimed my Barbaro Beanie as his own.

Stay Strong Barbaro Nation, we've been brought together to accomplish amazing things in honor of an amazing Horse.

I'll ALWAYS Believe in Miracles,
I'll ALWAYS Believe in Barbaro.

Becky and Chip

Good evening Friends of Barbaro and the Barbaro Nation:

I have been reading all of the posts and they are truly lovely; I have only posted a few times though, because I never really felt like I was a part of the group. But I have a favor to ask of all of you in Barbaro's memory.

Last night as I was coming home from work here in Portland, Oregon I was flipping through radio stations trying to find something to take my mind off of Barbaro and my almost constant crying for him and my recently departed cat. I came across the radio station KUFO and the DJ's on at the time were Cort and "Fatboy", and although I admit I came in partway through their comments, they DID NOT AT ANY TIME SAY THAT WHAT THEY WERE TALKING ABOUT ON THE AIR WERE NOT THEIR OPINIONS. They referred to the scholorship in Barbaro's memory as a "loser scholorship" and that anyone that took it was a "loser"; that the only race that really mattered was the race that Barbaro never finished and therefore he was a "loser horse"; and that "the best thing Barbaro ever did was to become glue and dog food". I called the radio station and since it was after business hours left a message demanding that an apology be made by Cort and "Fatboy", as well as telling them how inappropriate and insensitive it was to make fun of those grieving for a "great horse such as Barbaro", that he was not a "loser" and he "made more money in his short career than they will ever see in theirs", as well as telling them that I will never listen to their station again. I just checked the station website as well as their blogs and there is no apology posted.

PLEASE EMAIL THESE IDIOTS AS WELL AS THEIR PARENT COMPANY AND LET THEM KNOW THAT THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO THOSE OF US WHO LOVED BARBARO AND NOW MOURN HIS PASSING.

cort@kufo.com
fatboy@kufo.com
al@intertechmedia.com

Please help me to get these guys to apologize for their inappropriate and insensitive remarks. Thank you ever so much

Diana Grob
Gresham, OR
d_grob@yahoo.com

Did everyone see the pics of Barbaro's baby brother that Alex posted on the discussion board? He doesn't look like Barbaro (no one will, so that is ok) but it does look to me like he has that same pink nose. or am I mistaken?

Love the video with Michael and his son. Alex, you are the best.

The NTRA video while nice made me too sad and a bit angry. I wanted medical science to help Barbaro! Seems so unfair!!

Also LOVE the museum idea. He deserves something that large and spectacular.

Still crying and wow do I miss him.

Oh, Alex.....you & B

Sabina's last picture is wonderful - This is what did me in for the day - Sobbing....What a great pic...

Lisa in Colorado

Friends of Barbaro, Shame on Us! I can't believe there are people debating a decision made by the Jacksons. In life, they agonized over every decision they made over the past 8 months. One look at them and it is clear, they are agonizing over decisions they must make in his death. They were gracious enough to allow us to share Barbaro's journey with him. As connected as we all feel, when all is said and done, Barbaro is their horse. It's so insensitive to debate a cremation decision of theirs on a public forum. Although Barbaro's journey has been very public, they are under no obligation to share any information with us. They have given us potential final resting places and will again; make the decision that is right for Barbaro. Where that place is and whether or not it should be a body or ashes, is not something we should question or debate.

A discussion on cremation could prove a lively discussion with many diverse views. An appropriate place would be under the General Heading on the forum but not in the context of a decision made by the Jacksons. The decision they made on Monday is one of the most gut wrenching decisions a pet owner must make. Mrs. Jackson has been known to visit this site and I believe she would be deeply hurt by some of the comments.

Let's support the Jacksons and be thankful they are trying to make a tough decision with Barbaro and the public's interest at heart.

I apologize if I have offended anyone but more importantly, I don't want the Jacksons to be offended. We are all grieving. They are so kind and caring and have always thought of the public in their decisions and sharing of information. We owe them.

vicki

Sarah from NC
Thanks for your alert..... what a wonder picture of Alex & Barbaro

I believe that one of the best things Barbaro has done was bring together all the FABULOUS people on this board. The positive energy here is amazing, even in times of heartbreak, as we are all feeling now. Thank you all for being here, now more than ever!

Harriet Brillianthawk, your story is beautiful, and brought me such comfort. Please repost it here often, so that no one will miss it.

Spirit Horse, your post on prophetic dreams and past, present, future all merged together made such perfect sense, and helped so much. What happened was destined to happen, and all of our prayers and tears were not going to change it.

Everyone, just remember, Barbaro was put on this earth for a reason. His life was NOT in vain. As long as the positive force on this board continues, then Barbaro has never really died. He will live on forever, in all of our hearts. Something wonderful will come from all this in the end.

Alex and Barbaro (complete with Barbaro hat!) I love it. You are so lucky to have helped take care of him Alex.

Ya know, Alex, this site should be continued...Barbaro still has family that we would like know about, Michael already has his half brother and from what I understand he already has a full brother, almost a yearling (?) and maybe another one on the way (is this correct?). You have introduced us to several horses there. We keep up with them through you....they, too, have become a part of our lives. For those of us who have visited this site every day for months and several times a day even, holding our breath, waiting for words good or bad since the very first post, you have become our friend. No matter where we live, it's been wonderful to have you, Dr. R, the Jackson's or whoever keeping us informed, knowing that we cared. Barbaro had indirectly become a huge part of our lives and he is gone, but this site and all of the people - you, Michael, Peter, Kathy Anderson, Dr. R, Edgar the Jacksons and everyone else we have met through you are still around. It's hard to lose him, it would be even harder if we didn't have a way to keep up with those we've truly grown to care about over the past eight months. How else will we know about what's going on at Fair Hill, how the weather is, how your morning workouts went, how the horses ran, how Barbaro's baby brother is, when Michael has a horse running or the latest on the anti-slaughter bill. It was about Barbaro, but it was also more than that. Think about it Alex..........

#####
JEANETTE CAVALIER: Thank you for your compliment. I've always loved your posts too. A few other posters also "recognized" me; I figured that would happen. But I did not step forward under "Loretta" until Barbaro died. I changed names when I came back, b/c I just wanted to try, once again, to focus ONLY healing thoughts on Barbaro, without calling attention to myself personally. It's always been about healing Barbaro for me; it's never been about upsetting others. Now you know, if you read one of my lengthy posts since Bobby died, that right off the bat in May, I had had a dream foretelling his euthanization. That's why I worked as hard as I could to reverse that awful outcome. But the die had been cast, and nothing...as we now know...could alter the course of events. I remain, as on Monday, beside myself with grief.

Wonderful!
Alex and Barbaro!
What a delight!
Thanks Sarah for the alert.
jan

##########

Oh Sarah!!

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I burst into tears when I saw this.

Eeveryone go to sabrina's site..it is Barbaro and Alex!!!!!

Another night is here... maybe this will be the one when sleep finally comes. Today actually was a little better until I decided I had the strength to take a stroll down Memory Lane and looked at all the Barbaro photos I could find and watched the videos more than once. Then the tears started again. I think part of my grief anyway, was the fact that he went from good to bad so quickly. No time to be prepared.... Like a ton of bricks landed on my head. I hope some of you are able to get some rest tonight. God knows we need it. Love you all.

Sweet colt~ yes, I'm still writing good night messages to you. Hard habit to break, I guess. I got your 'message' this morning. I know it was you that dusted my car with snow! You little rascal.... Funny that you knew which car was mine! I saw you today on video & now I know what you look like in heaven-- all happy, healthy & vibrant, just as God made you. I hope you're getting lots & lots of hard pears and fields of buttercups. I love you, precious angel, from way down deep in my heart & soul. Don't forget to catch your morning kiss. Sleep tight. A domani.

Before I sign off, just to say that that photo of Barbaro and Alex from New Year's Eve -- what two handsome fellas. What a wonderful shot. That photo will must mean so much to you, Alex, and probably will forever . . .

Thanks Sarah, fellow tarheel, for the heads-up on that. No go check out photos of Barbaro's little brother on the discussion board. So much to look forward to, even if the little guy never races . . .

NANCY H and JAN...I started shaking when I saw it. It wasn't there yesterday.

Hello, FsOB! I am so grateful for Alex's posting the videos of Barbaro by the Hennegan Brothers. Seeing Bobbey with Michael M's son really made me smile. And then when I saw the film of Bobbey in the fenced yard, chewing on the chain links and running in a circle (as if to "show off"), I laughed out loud. We are truly fortunate that there are so many great photos and videos of master Barbaro Jackson. I've told Brent that we shall ask everyone to raise a toast Bobbey at our Derby party this year - AND I want a Barbaro Breyer model. (When things were going so poorly in July, Brent got me a Barbaro/Lael Farms hat to perk me up.) Ms. Nikita the horse-loving Husky sends comfort and love to each of you! May we all find peace in our memories of Barbaro, RMH

In today's (Victorville CA) Daily Press is an editorial cartoon from the Hartford Courant. I cannot read the name of the artist, but the cartoon shows a horse running across a field of flowers, his eyes closed and all four feet off the ground. He has a black mane and tail and a white star.

The bubble above his head, showing his thoughts, reads, "I can run! I can run!"

(There is a web address posted on the side of the picture, caglecartoons.com. I have not checked it out, but I thought I would share this lovely surprise with everyone. If someone else has posted the information about this cartoon, please forgive the repeat. I have been at work all day and unable to access this site).

I am posting this cartoon on my bulletin board. To me, this says it all.

Indeed, Bobby Jackson. You CAN run!!

Hey Alex,

I thpought you said he never nipped you?????????

Mary...Isn't it wonderful!

To all of us who hurt:

"Animal lovers are a special breed of human,
generous of spirit,
full of empathy,
perhaps a little prone to sentimentality,
and with hearts as big as a cloudless sky."

John Grogan
Marley & Me

Thanks for being here....

######
Sarah,

I actually yelled out "OH" really loud when I saw it. Then I burst into tears. I just never expected to see that. What a wonderful surprise. It is absolutely perfect!

Barbaro, I love you. I love you, Barbaro.

Thank you, each and every one of you, FOB who love Barbaro. The only peace that comes today is the time spent on this board. I'm sorry that some of you are having an even harder day, today, but even that gives me comfort, "I'm not alone."

My Mom sent me 12 pink carnations at work today, with a sweet note. She knew I was hurting because of Barbaro.

I have lots and lots to say about that boy I love so well. I say his name out loud just to hear it.

Thank you, Alex, for this warm home. I cannot wait to come back and talk to my friends. One time a wise lady said to me, "Grief is hard work." And so thank you for giving this place to do that work.

Off to light his candles.

####
Sarah From NC
The picture is pure joy!
It has to be brand new to Sabrina's site. I too was checking Sabrina's site out last night and it was not there.
Do you suppose Sabrina would ever publish a book of her pictures or offer copies of a photo or two for mass sale? Sabrina is such a part of this whole story. I would be honored to own a piece of her work!
Good Eye Sarah!!!!
jan

what a beautiful photo of alex and barbaro. it is so lovely to see barbaro head on and see both his eyes. what a handsome boy. we miss him so. alex please keep this site open. i know we can achieve great things for all the horses. goodnight sweet barbaro and to all the fobs out there.

In case this info hasn't been posted, there will be a tribute to Barbaro on the TVG channel tonight at 7pm, PST.

Jane in No. Hollywood, CA

###
Hilary
beautiful photo of alex and barbaro, where is it?

Barbaro and Alex

http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/Barbaro.htm

Last pix on the page

Seeing Sabina's picture of Alex with Big B is PURE JOY (after the tears that spontaneously erupted have stopped)....

Lisa in CO.

#####
PAT: I'm so glad my ideas were helpful to you. As you can tell, it's been a tremendous struggle for me to put it all together in my own mind since he died. There's really no such thing as "time"; we just perceive it as such, while we're in this "mortal coil". From the moment Bobby was born -- maybe even before -- the last chapter of his life on earth had already been written...never to be erased.

It makes one wonder about one's own "future", and how much we really "choose" our life. I recently told someone that I wondered if it even mattered what path we choose in life when we're at a "crossroads", b/c maybe we wind up eventually, where we were meant to be in the first place.

We tend to think it makes a difference in life, which path we choose. To be sure, the experiences will be different, on different paths, but maybe the lessons we came here to learn will be the same, no matter which path we travel.

Thank you Alex for keeping all of us in touch with Barbero. I have checked in every day and dealt with the ups and downs... I am interested in the other horse issues and hope to visit New Bolton some time this year..

I feel awful about Barbero's death...but I respect the Jacksons and Dr. Ricardson for the decision that had to be made.

My hope is that he is over the rainbow bridge and is feeling free for the first time in months...along with all of my Irish Stters.

Not so agile anne

When my boys were toddlers, they loved Teddy Ruxpin. Anybody remember the talking and singing Teddy Bear? One of the songs Teddy Ruxpin would sing was "FOBS are gobs of fun!"
I can't help myself, as I read and post on this site, "FOBS are gobs of fun" runs through my mind!
Hey everyone....
"FOBs are gobs of fun"!
jan

I just watched the video of Michael and his son. That was so awsome. I can't imagine how huge Barbaro seemed to that little boy. Both the little boy and Barbaro, nervous of each other. That little meeting and probably many more meetings instilled so much confidence that Barbaro let the Jackson's grandkids wrap their arms around his big head. The boy will always remember this.

Jane,
What is the 'TVG' channel? I don't know if I get it.

Joe in CA

Alex, thanks for the links to the clips. The one with Michael Matz and his son is priceless. Had to get more kleenex.
Loved the newest photos on Sabina's site also. THanks for letting me know they were there.
Goodnight to all.
I Believe in Barbaro
I Believe in Miracles

Nancy in Va Beach

Sarah From NC
Thank you so much, Alex and Barbaro love it, thank you again@

Alex,
Thanks so much for keeping all of us up to date. For the past 8 months this site is the first thing I check when I get up in the morning. This horse was special in so many ways. One only needs to look here at over 1,000 condolences posted by folks from all over the US to know how special he was and what an impact he had.
http://www.legacy.com/philly/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=86211889

Thanks again.

Alex, what a great picture of you and Barbaro on New Year's Eve. You are so fortunate. I know you will treasure it, and your memories of Barbaro, always.

Thank you to the Hennegan brothers for Clip #2. What a nice moment between Michael and his son. This clip really tugs at the heart strings.

Good night everyone.

I'll be seeing you Barbaro in the starlit skies. I love you sweet boy.

Hi, FOB's!

Just saw the pic of Alex and Barbaro...two really handsome gentlemen if I ever saw any. Like B and Dr. R, they are two best buddies. The picture brought some tears, but along with the (now) receding sadness, there are tears of love.

Sabina, thank you so much for posting the New Year's photos of B with you, Dr. R and Alex. They are just beautiful...his eyes say so much and you can tell he's happy in those pictures.

Am gonna try to get some sleep.

Take care, everybody. You're the greatest.

Harriette, (sorry if I misspelled your name) I'll e-mail you tomorrow. Am totally wiped out.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

####

I am so sorry if this has been posted before but I had to cut down on how much I am on this site while at work... :)

Does anyone have the addresses to send cards to:
The Jacksons
Dr. Richardson
Michael Matz
Peter Brette
Dr. Kathy Anderson

(Am I forgetting anyone? Please...)

**Alex, we know where to find you! I just need to find the right words...

Thank you Jane for letting us know about the special on Barbaro on TVG at 7:00 pacific time.

I had just heard them advise it was coming and ran over to the computer to tell everyone.

Alex - Your picture with Barbaro is wonderful.

Tears just will not stop

Joe,

TVG is a gaming channel that shows the horse races every day, sometimes in conjunction with the Fox Sports Network. You need cable tv and digital broadcast too, I believe.

####
NANCY CA: Thank you for your offer to explore this metaphysical problem further. Once the "dust settles" from this awful, inexplicable tragedy, I think we should do that.

Thanks Jane. I think I get that channel.

OK everyone, if you want a smile - if you dont already have one from seeing Sabina's incredible picture of Alex and Big B - go to the discussion boards, look under Barbaro and check out the pictures that Alex just posted on B's baby brother, taken today or yesterday. He has gotten so big - he has a very recognizable star - he is quite the poser and camera ham - and seems to think he is "IT" - These will put a smile on anyone's face. Let's hope he can run like his brother...Never has a horse started up with a bigger fan club (though I guess his baby brother to be could rival it)....

Lisa in Colorado

Alex what a great picture of you and Barbaro. You are so lucky. What a magnificent beauty Barbaro is.

Thank you for the video clip of Michael introducing his son to Barbaro. Really special.

Good night everyone.

Slumber well, sweet prince.

I'll see you in my dreams.

When I read the comments about the editorial of T.J.Simers, I went to the LA Times and read his column. He suggested his readership look up the definition of courage before ascribing it to a horse. As a sportswriter, Mr. Simers should know that one of the more accurate definitions of courage was "grace under pressure." Barbaro certainly had that and more. Mr. Simers, on the other hand, did not have the courage to print any of the negative emails he must certainly have received after the publication of his column.

FOBs, please help me try to understand why, after all of the millions of prayers that were said for Barbaro, God still chose to take him from us. What possible lesson can there be in this from God?

TVG-on Dish Network it is 405

####

Diane Grob -- another idea for the radio station would be to contact the advertisers and tell them about the offensive programming, and that thousands of people / families will not support their products if they continue to advertise on such a show. Good luck!

This is on Barbaro's baby brother..quotes from Mrs. Jackson..

Can His Kid Brother Follow in Barbaro’s Huge Footsteps?

By BILL FINLEY
Published: February 1, 2007

LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 31 — Just 75 miles from where Barbaro first captured the nation’s attention with a remarkable run in the Kentucky Derby, a young colt, a baby in many ways, spends much of his day frolicking in a large paddock at Mill Ridge Farm. He is just one among thousands of yearlings living on thoroughbred farms throughout Kentucky, and all of them are still months away from their first chance at showing what they might amount to on a racetrack.

Barbaro’s brother may begin racing in 2008 as a 2-year-old. The question is: Will he show the full range of qualities his brother displayed?
Still, there will always be something special about this brown colt. As yet unnamed, he is a son of the sire Dynaformer and the dam La Ville Rouge. That makes him Barbaro’s full brother, the only full brother that he had.

It is an association that will follow this yearling as he grows up, making for high expectations, potential disappointment and a permanent soft spot in the hearts of the many who became drawn to Barbaro’s story.

“There was a time when we thought about selling him,” Gretchen Jackson said of the yearling, which she owns with her husband, Roy, just as they owned Barbaro. “We could never do that now. There are going to be a lot of emotions tied up in him.”

Barbaro, the 2006 Kentucky Derby winner, was euthanized Monday after losing a long and dramatic battle for survival that began when he fractured his right hind leg during the Preakness Stakes last May. He was the type of thoroughbred that comes along once in a great while, with a rare combination of speed, stamina, talent and desire. Now comes his kid brother, an unproven and untested 10½-month-old, and with him, the inevitable question: Can he possibly be as good?

When a horse is as young as Barbaro’s brother is, there is little to go on. But the early indications are all positive, said his handlers at Mill Ridge Farm, where he was born and will remain until September, when he will be sent to Florida to begin more serious preparations for a racing career.

Conformation, a horse’s physical alignment, is an early indicator. For instance, a horse born with a crooked knee is unlikely to be successful on the racetrack. Barbaro’s brother has no such problems. He also has the type of attitude that could translate into success on the racetrack.

“He’s easy to handle and has a good personality,” said Donnie Snellings, the manager of yearlings and stallions at Mill Ridge. “He’s tough enough with the other horses in the field, which shows you that he has a competitive drive.”

For two horses to be considered full siblings, they must share the same father and mother, or sire and dam. Horses with the same dam but different sires are considered half-brothers or half-sisters. Horses by the same sire only — and there are many of them — are not even considered to be related.

Meanwhile, La Ville Rouge and Dynaformer have produced another full brother to Barbaro who is set to be born in mid-April. After delivering that foal, La Ville Rouge, who is 11, will again be bred to Dynaformer, who is 22 and does not have too many years left as a stallion.

What this all will ultimately mean for the sport of horse racing is anyone’s guess. Breeding is an inexact science and the results of even the most carefully planned matings can be wildly unpredictable. There are very few examples of sets of full siblings becoming major stars on the racetrack. Seabiscuit had two full brothers, one named Naval Reserve, the other named Sea Base. They combined to earn a meager $10,470 during their racing careers.

“The record books show that lightning can strike twice in the same place, but perhaps not nearly as often as you might expect,” said Andrew Caulfield, a breeding consultant to Juddmonte Farms. “Think of it in human terms: How many brothers or sisters are carbon copies of each other? The odds of hitting the genetic jackpot more than once are certainly loaded against the breeder. Of course, that doesn’t rule out a very bright future for Barbaro’s brother, but will he have inherited the full range of qualities, including the courage and will to win, which made Barbaro so special?”

That is a question that will not be answered until he makes his first start, as a 2-year-old, perhaps in the summer or fall of 2008.

“The expectations are going to be high for him,” said Bayne Welker, Mill Ridge’s director of sales. “Barbaro has set a very high bar.”

Because Barbaro was born and raised at Springmint Farm in Nicholasville, Ky., Welker has no way to compare him and his brother as yearlings. But maybe John Stevens will be able to do so, because Barbaro’s brother will be sent to his farm in Ocala, Fla., this summer or early fall. There the colt will be taught to be ridden with a saddle on.

Stevens was Barbaro’s instructor, too, so he should be able to make some comparisons. By early 2008, Barbaro’s brother will be sent to a trainer. No decision has been made yet as to who that will be, but Gretchen Jackson said it would likely be Michael Matz, the trainer of Barbaro.

By then, the brother will have a name. Barbaro’s name came from a painting the Jacksons own. In it, six foxhounds are pictured and each one is named, including one named Barbaro. Gretchen Jackson said the brother will most likely be named after one of the other five foxhounds. Those wishing for a derivative of Barbaro’s name will apparently be disappointed.

And those hoping the brother will win the Kentucky Derby should be realistic. The Jockey Club estimates that 34,200 thoroughbreds were born in the United States in 2006, making the odds astronomical that Barbaro’s brother will be the one among that vast group who captures the Derby on the first Saturday in May 2009. Then again, you never know.

“It’s a miracle that we had one horse as good as Barbaro, and he gave us memories that we’re going to hold on to for a lifetime,” Gretchen Jackson said. “It’s hard to believe that it could ever happen again. As far as this foal is concerned, I can only hope that he has a great racing career, too. I just hope he gets his chance and does what he was born to do.”

This is from the NY Times (just out) and has a cute pic. of him.

I have never questioned any decisions that the Jackson's or Dr. R. has made concerning Barbaro. I've always known that they had his bests interests at heart at all times. Did they always make the perfect decision concerning him? Probably not, they are human and were dealing with a problem that has not been successfully dealt with before. Dr R always told us bad things can happen very, very quickly and that's what happened.

I do understand people being angry and questioning things that happened. I think that is normal and helps them come to terms with lossing Barbaro. I know I will never watch another triple crown race without thinking of Barbaro and what might have been.

This is such a sad time for us all,
cindy a

My Kentucky Derby 132 book came today, beautiful pictures of Barbaro!

####

LORETTA, I would like to thank you for all your contributions to this board, especially when Barbaro contracted laminitis back in July. Your profound spirituality was very comforting and uplifting.

I am also beside myself with grief. I thought he was going to make it to a healthy, just about normal life. I was sure God was protecting him, but letting it fold out in a natural, gradual way. We were wrong. I had these ideas of it ending this way, but pushed them out of my mind.
I don't know why this happened.. It's going to take a long time to sort out and reason it out.

I wish you peace, may we all find peace.

susan O...

SURE YOU CAN...ANYTIME.

I love you Barbaro................. Have fun tonight, talk to you soon.... :-)

Good night, Angel Boy. I miss you.

All my love,
Kelly XOXOXOXO

TVG IS NOW DOING A SPECIAL ON BARBARO AND IS ASKING PEOPLE TO CALL OR EMAIL IN THEIR FEELINGS...

Bobby,

If tears could build a stairway,
and memories could build a lane,
I'd walk right up to heaven
and bring you home again.

I reads this little verse tonight in a book, and it seemed perfect for you. We would all love to lead you back whole and perfect.

Sleep well with God, champ!

I wish I had TVG

Hello Barbaro,

I see you were running races over Minnesota again today! The snow was stunning!!

Honey, I'm suspecting that someone is teaching you Lessons in Heaven...

Yesterday morning, I stopped at a convenience store on my way to work. I thought I spotted a "sign" but chalked it up to wishful thinking...

This morning, I stopped at a different store, another "sign"...

Honey, has someone taught you about "Pennies from Heaven"? Both mornings, there were pennies in my path, shining so brightly against the asphalt.

I instantly had the biggest smile when I saw the penny this morning. And a few tears. This was not just wishful thinking anymore...

But, I think more than one Angel has taken you under their wing...

I read a bit of a thread in the Forum today during a break that other Fans have had "signs" of their own! Words, names, stars, pennies, cloud formations, rainbows... so many signs!

Honey, you're having fun, aren't you?! You're learning your Lessons well! We love the gifts of your "signs" or "messages" as some Fans have referred to them!! We LOVE them! We need them. And we will cherish those gifts you give us. Thank you Honey. You put Hope in your Fan's hearts... and a smile on their face. True gifts.

It's time for bed Honey. The blankets are turned down and inviting me in. I wish you sweet dreams tonight Honey. I know you'll be in mine... I miss you. I love you.

Good night Barbaro. You know I'm in love with you. Good night. I don't want to let you go... XXOOxo

####

Hello Hope,

I hope the day was good to you. It's getting colder and we need a warmer blanket for you tonight. We'll pull it high on your neck to keep any draft away and your foal nice and warm.

Dream only sweet dreams Hope. You know I love you. I love how your growing and thriving.

Good night Little One. I love you. xxoo

Good night, Big Bay One. Have you met my Margot Kitty yet? She'll show you the best places to nap.

Good night, fellow Fans.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

MIKE C....

Here is their email and phone info...

mail@TVG.com

1-877-855-2884
or
1-877-TLK2TVG

I cannot think of anyone who should call more than you...It is basically an open and informal forum...

I just found this great graphic from the Phil. Inquirer that explained all of Barbaro's injuries.

http://inquirer.philly.com/pdfs/2007/barbaro_injury.pdf

Susan in Saratoga

Just came back in to check and see how everyone was during a break from the discussion about our boy on TVG. Thank you for the suggestion, I will definitely do that, but I hope that others will too. The more people that speak up and say that it is not acceptable to berate our grief the better.

Diana

FOR COMFORT...UPENN VETMED RECOMMENDS

HOOFBEATS IN HEAVEN

http://www.hoofbeats-in-heaven.com/forum/

"The love of horses knows not its own depth til the hour of separation."
Author Unknown

Took a break from TVG to tell Alex how great his picture is with Barbaro. Sabina's caption made me smile. Barbaro really was a ham :)

Having a hard night tonight for some reason.

####
MARY LANGKAMP, you wrote:

Dr. R has said numberous times now since this that if a horse came in now with the same injury he thinks he could save it. Why??? What would he do differently??? What did he do wrong??? Not to put blame on anyone just to know what went wrong. You don't know what will work til you try it. To second quess does no one any good cause who knows what would have worked or not worked. But what is it that would be done differently now??>>>>

Mary, I know you are raw with grief. I wish you peace in sorting this out eventually. That's what I'm trying desperately to do.

Here's an example, for one thing. I think Dr. Dean wanted to use the sling before there were any complications. But Barbaro wouldn't accept it, wouldn't have anything to do with it. Also, against using it, a sling can cause other complications. Since B was doing very well, especially with his eating, I would surmise Dr. Dean decided to leave well enough alone and not agitate Barbaro and/or cause problems in that area. Dr. Dean had to worry about a confined horse.

However, now looking back, and we all know from 20/20 hindsight, maybe, and this is only my speculation, a horse should go straight from the recovery pool into the sling - when he is docile and kind of down from the surgery. Maybe he would be acclimated to using it from the start, perhaps half the day in, half out. That might have been key in preventing that dread disease, if he could have taken his weight off the left from the very start. We don't know, but these are the things we might guess might make a difference. Dr. Dean said he learned a lot from treating Barbaro. He said if you have, say, 3 options of treatment, you choose one, but you can't know if one of the other two would work better. It takes a lot of guts to practice medicine at his level.

I'm sorry Mary, I'm sorry it didn't work out. But Barbaro was a finely tuned machine and somehow things are more likely to go wrong. A Ferrari is more apt to have trouble than a big old Ford pickup.

Wishing you peace.

Good night, Barbaro.

Alex, that video of Michael and his son was a great way to end the day.

Thanks u so much

Goodnight and sleep tight, FOBs. I love you all. We are family.

Thank you so much Alex and Tim.

It's snowing here in St. Louis right now. Great big fluffy flakes. Swirling and dancing and dipping and fluttering.

Is Bobby racing around over us tonight? Is he making his way over the many states where his "frens" live?

I came to the computer to try to catch up on emails and found one from my sister from yesterday. It had a link to the candle she lit for Bobby, as she wished this "mighty warrior" peace.

More tears....

Dear Hennegan Brothers - thank you for posting the second video - you are giving us a tremendous gift that makes this very sad time more bearable. You don't know us (we don't really know each other) but you still are generously donating the clips you have of Barbaro.

Dear Sabina - you keep surprising us with new pictures - thank you for bringing a smile to many thousands of FOBs.

Dear Alex - thank you for your continued updates on your morning rides (4 today or sometimes 6 or just Hawty Creek). As you know all too well, there is an emptiness each morning now. I have been checking Tim's site for updates since June - every morning - here in Pennsylvania, in Italy, in China, over the North Pole, wherever I was, I checked in. That terrible day in July, throughout all the operations, pool recoveries and ACNs - I was there with you and the FOBs. Thank you Alex, especially now...

Good night Barbaro - I will sleep beneath your namesake - a handsome hound - was he there to greet you when you arrived in Heaven?

FROM THE TVG SPECIAL...BARBARO REMEMBERED

"BARBARO was the meaning of a super horse. I know he is up there with all the greats: LOST IN THE FOG, ST LIAM and SEABISCUIT, all trying to figure out why we're all so sad that he's in heaven now.
No matter what, it will always be "ALL BARBARO."

-Kate P.
Royal Oak, MI
12 yrs old

Thanks for the youtube link. It made me smile to see Barbaro as the horse he was before the accident (and Michael's care with his son and Barbaro.

So much love.

I am so hoping that they have a museum near the Jacksons and New Bolton so that Roy and Gretchen and Doc Richardson can visit easily. I'd love to buy a brick and go to visit.

If the Jacksons do a museum, they need a place where we can light candles, a garden for growing carrots, place for apple and pear trees.

How do we handle the spearmints?

Have we all seen the wonderful picture in the NY Times of Barbaro's little brother?????

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/01/sports/othersports/01barbaro.html

Laurie H: Glad you got a sign ....I did too....

Thanks as always for the tuck in...eachand every one is special...

Lisa in Colorado...

Harriette,

I just love this idea!

The Barbaro Research Center for Laminitis
built at NBC. On the grounds would be a life size bronze statue of Barbaro, artistically landscaped green space with benches , trees &flowers blooming in every season.Memorial stones along a walk path ,etc.

Laminitis is the reason we lost Barbaro. Three of his four legs were affected with it. I went to a link provided earlier today. What an awful disease Laminitis is.

What do the rest of you all think?

Judy

Sweet Angel Bobby J, I cannot believe what I am reading.....all those articles and condolences. I knew it was possible, but I never braced myself for this, because I thought you were invincible. But you will always have my heart if I can find it again. I will always love you, Angel.

########
I read earlier today a post from someone who said if you are dreaming of Bobby, you are deeply disturbed and need psychiatric help.
I hate to tell that person, but last week I fell asleep watching CSI:Miami, and both nights I had a dream that I was a CSI. Does that mean I am deeply disturbed, or does it mean that THAT WAS THE LAST THING ON MY MIND before I fell asleep.
Good grief.

My wish is for a better night for our family, the Jacksons, Dr. Dean, Alex and all of Team barbaro, Michael, Peter, Edgar, Eduardo...
Love you all,
Susan
I love you Bobby.

########
Kathy,

I posted the article above..he is cute. I was surprised they had thought about selling him.

Are you in Northbrook, IL?

Good evening, all -

Oh, gosh. There's so much.

The picture of Mr. Brown and Barbaro is just - wonderful. It MADE me smile.

Lori M in Santa Rosa - Yes. You are absolutely right on.

Ginny - Thank you for saying what you did. That is exactly how I feel. I don't know what I would do without the daily reports on the Fair Hill weather, and how Hawty is doing, and who's at the gate, on the Tapeta track, etc.

Lisa - The Grogan quote is so true. It was good to hear.

Cheryl Jones - You break my heart. The deserted horse is in me forever, just as is the delightfully uninhibited voice you found for Barbaro. You have a gift.

Spirit Horse - Your point re: predestination, and the paths we choose is a fascinating one. I would postulate, (for further discussion in another forum if you wish), that it is not only the result that is involved. It is the process. We are here, I believe, to do the work involved in making the choices.

Robyn Hoffman(n) - (I'm SO sorry. I can never remember if it is one or two ns!) - As ever, you are rational and reassuring.

Sarah in NC - Thanks so much for pointing me to the new picture of Mr. Brown and Barbaro.

Kay - I am going to go look for the cartoon, but even if I can't access it, thank you for describing it so clearly. Smile with tears.

Barbaro - well, he knows how I feel.

Love and comfort to all in need, two-legged and four-legged.

- Jean
Barbaro knows how I feel

###

Hi Lisa!

I'm sooo happy you got a sign! Warms your heart, doesn't it?
Good night Lisa, to you and yours.

Great job Daphne! You represented the FOBs very well on TVG's Fandicapped and RIGHT ON for talking about getting horse slaughter banned!!! Barbaro is proud of you right now, and so am I! Well done!!!!

##########

Judy,

I would do both. He could have a laminitis wing at NBC and then a museum by either the tracks or near fair hill. I think the Jacksons so wanted to get him out of NBC that perhaps they don't want his legacy to be all medical stuff. At the eclipse awards Mrs. J. said they have forgotten about him as a race horse and she always saw him that way.

I just want the Jacksons to be happy. They have given us so much.

Harriette, Judy:
It is the perfect idea. That is where I would want all our contributions to go to. Barbaro Research Center at NEW BOLTON.
I received a warning today from someone very much in the know and very connected NOT to follow the plan that was in the Inquirer about the national one from the NTRA. He said not to give one thin dime to them.
But I had to end the conversation because Barbara Livingston had stopped by. I said, ok, talk to you in a few days (had to pick my jaw up from the desk, I am in awe of her and her work)
Harriette, Judy, email me at Braveheart530@aol.com with your email addresses and I will tell you more. Probably tomorrow, since I am sleepy.
Love to Family,
Susan
I love you Angel Bobby

Y'all really come up with great ideas.

I really like the idea of the Barbaro Research Center at New Bolton.

I like the idea of 'buying' a brick for the museum.

LaurieH,
I'm so glad you are still doing the tuck ins, thank you.

Cheryl Jones,
I have always loved your writings. Thank you for always comforting my inner child.

Thank you all FOB's for being here.

I have watched every Kentucky Derby since 1961. 2006 will be my last and Barbaro was my choice. I have cried for Barbaro, Ruffian, Pine Island, Alydar (murdered for insurance money by a pick up truck with a rope around his leg), Ferdinand (sold to the Japs and eaten), Alysheba (sold to a Turkish stud), saw a breakdown at the Breeders Cup in Chigago that led to putting the horse down, and followed the deaths at Arlington this pastyear.

I have had the honor of petting Affirmed at Calumet and seeing Seattle Slew. I have Slew's baby pictures. I have been a loyal horse racing fan for over 40 years.

But I am tired of the death and romantic sentiments. I will NEVER watch a horse race again, not the Derby, the Preakness, the Belmont, the Breeders Cup. None of them.

Goodnight, Barbaro! All this talk about messages is getting me excited... soon I'm gonna start looking to see if I've "got mail!"
Sometimes I think I'm not too good at reading those, though- so if you send one and I miss it, don't feel bad! I'll figure you did, one way or the other, and I just overlooked it. That's what happens when you get a degree in a science field-you get too analytical for your own good ;)

I remember four or five years ago I got a sign from a departed friend, at least I will always think it was- a little trinket just sitting in the middle of nowhere that reminded me of her. That sign still sits very close by my desk in a memorial to her.

#Oh, by the way, FOBs- if, by chance, your sadness has caused you to neglect your feline friends a bit over the past few days, may I remind you, DO NOT neglect their litterboxes! I remembered to clean mine tonight- whoa. Thank God for clumping litter, is all I hafta say.

Especially if your cat is a newly-diagnosed diabetic, like mine, and pees a lake :(
By the way, I thank everyone who lit him candles on Saturday and Sunday night, it ws comforting to see all these wonderful people I've never met wishing him the best! Here's his link again, after the turmoil of this week I let him get quite low, time to rekindle the fire:
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=2512227

You can sign up for TVG and watch everything on videos right on your monitor. You don't have to watch it on TV.... I have had it for months...........

Barbaro....... I love you and I'll keep you close to my heart.

Dr. Richardson. I hope your doing better, I know the pain you must be feeling.

Alex. Your great. You must be going through a lot as well.

I am off to San Fransisco to do some work down there. I will check in on you guys every once and awhile........

God Bless You ALL!!!!!!!!!

Fans of Barbaro,

I too, share in everyone's grief! Bobby was a beautiful, strong, spirited, and majestic soul. I can not believe I am having to write that (past tense) - after knowing how hard Dr. Dean tried to save him & knowing how much we prayed and willed for his successful recovery. Barbaro tried to heal and made many friends during his struggles, what a champion.

When I heard that his fight was over Monday morning....I just simply could not breath - the wind was knocked completely out of me. My heart aches that he is gone and I wish the sincerest condolences to his connections, including Alex! Alex, you have been awesome at giving us an up to date life line to everything about him and his journey. What an emotional, rewarding, heart wrenching, ride, but a very sad outcome. Bobby has touched many people the world over and the movement he created, FOBs, are continuing to make miracles.

I believe in Miracles, I still believe in Barbaro.
If only... I could have met him.
If only... I could have pet him.
If only... our tears could bring him back.
If only... we could have saved his life.
If only...

Continued love to Bobby in heaven & tears of sadness and relief he is not suffering,

Jen in Iowa :-((( sob, sob, sob

Hope you all enjoy the new site we've done for the NERC National Equine Rescue Coalition I'd welcome any suggestions you might have to make it even better!!

jock4hire (lj)

Has anyone heard from Smartycat?

Hello FOB My first time posting and am SO GLAD to have all of you to talk to. I'm like many of you, checked the website before coffee every morning since May. Now I'm reading for comfort and to try and get through a day. Last May was at my first derby, seven rows off the rail and it was so exciting, I was in love with Barbaro. But since then he grew to take up a much larger part in my heart than I ever thought he would. He is powerful enough to carry all of us on his back...willingly...and it feels like he is still doing that. I am just in awe of him. I can't pretend my heart isn't broken because Barbaro was not a pretender. I think his spirit wants to help us and we can lean on him. Bless him and all of the people on this site who are hurting.

One question for Alex or anyone who might know this.....Why don't owners breed stallions while they are racing? Is it because it would be too distracting or is it against the rules?

Thank you Alex for the gift of this great site!

###
Aw, Jackie, thanks for telling us about your kitty. I have not exactly been the best mom here, either... they know, they know.. my kitty showered me with gentle, comforting head butts Monday.


Judy, Harriette, the Barbaro Research Center at NBC has a really, really good feel. An independent think tank, where new ideas and research will blossom with the apple trees we'll plant for Barbaro... to give treats to the donor horses and patients who come along for years to come. Patients whose feet are comfortable, healthy and sound.


Peace and comfort, good people all. It is getting easier... each day a little easier. Love to each person this winter's night. Beautiful Barbaro, forever in our hearts. XXXXOOOXXX

Good night, baby.

Don't stay up too late running around with your new friends.

I love you.

GOODNIGHT BARBARO NATION

THANKS for the tuckin Laurie H now I feel a little more relaxed and I can go to bed too....
PS. I LOVE HIM TOO....sssshhhhh don't tell anyone!!!

LORD thank you for giving us the miracle and joy of Barbaro in our lives....
Thank you for Barbaro's right and perfect healing
May he always feel the warmth of our love!!! AMEN

HUGS EVERYONE...I'm spent !!!!Feeling a bit lost too.....

I, like most of you, have been following the Barbaro story since the day of The Preakness. I had never heard of Barbaro before and never knew a thing about horse racing or horses but on that day in May I happened to glance at a newspaper and saw the picture of Barbaro being pulled up by Edgar Prado. Something about the story tore into my heart and I searched for more news about it on the Internet.

That's when I got hooked and have been a regular on this site every day-sometimes twice a day-since that day. I had hoped and prayed that Barbaro would make it and he haunted me night and day.

When things took a turn for the worse, I was so upset I didn't want to look at this site. Then the news came a few mornings ago.

I have cried more than I cried for the death of my own father. To me, Barbaro's death symbolized the end of hope and innocence. He was innoncent, as all animals are and most humans aren't.

Since Monday, I have spent most of my time reading every article, watching every tape, and reading every commment on this site and The New York Times site. I am still in deep mourning for the life that could have gone on but didn't but I have a few questions and comments that have been raised about all this and I'd like to share them with you.

1) Barbaro didn't die of a broken leg or of laminites per se. He died as a result of injuries and disease sustained as a result of HORSE RACING. If he had not been racing, he may still have broken a leg in a pasture and had to be out down but the fact is it was while racing.

2) Horse racing is a cruel sport that exploits animals bt is cloaked in a lot of glamorous double talk. Yes, it is thrilling to watch a beautiful horse like Barbaro race with all hoofs flying off the ground but no one asked Barbaro is he wanted to be raced. In Scotland, horses run free through fields. So, I am left with a distaste for this sport.

3) I learned that they are breeding race horses for speed so that their legs are too fragile and prone to breaking

4) I learned that they race them too young (including Barbaro who was only 3) when their systems and bones are too fragile to withstand the pressure.

5) I learned that the surfaces are unsafe and that only now are they looking at Polytrack
6) I learned that most race horses suffer a horrible end as horse meat

7) I read that many many questioned why Barbaro was reloaded after he broke through the gate at The Preakness. Opinion is that when this happens it means something is very very wrong. Where were the Jacksons who love that horse when that happened? Why was there no xray taken? How come no one is talking about that?
I know nothing about horse racing but there is something fishy about that

8) Some comments suggested that maybe a prosthetic limb could have worked insetad of the surgery

It seems such a tragedy but maybe we need to examine why these things happened. Barbaro did not jsut get laminitis; he was raced at a too young age( as are most race horses), the Triple Crown Races are too close together according to some experts; he broke out of the gate and something shuold have been examined then and there; he was bread for speed and not for safety of limbs; the surface he was running on was not the safest there is.

Besides working to end horse slaughter, I for one, would like to end horse racing or make it a lot safer:
1.Change all track surfaces to Polytrack
2. Do not race horses that young
3. If a horse breaks out of a gate, don't re-load him
4. Change breeding practises so horses aren';t running on toothpick-thin legs
5. Eliminate horse racing and send it to the annals of our barbaric past together with feeding CHristians to the lions

Whereas, I appreciate all the Jacksons did and Dr Dean did, it is to horse racing and its dangers that Barbaro succumbed.

He never asked to race. He never asked to have those fragile bones. He never asked to be raced at too young an age. He never asked to be re-loaded at that gate when he was telling us something was wrong.

We humans all share in the guilt of his death for allowing this so-called "sport" to continue.

And it is not just the magnificent God creasture, Barbaro, but millions of other animals that we sacrifice to fashion, to our ever more insatiable palate, and to our craving for gambling and entertainment.

Animals are here to share out fragile planet with. Until so-called humans understand this, there will be many, many Barbaros going to their too painful, untimely death for no good reason.

And much as I admire the heroic efforts of the Jacksons and Dr Dean to save him, there is a much larger picture there that we must address through the tears.

The reality is Barbaro was one of the most magnificent creatures God created and God took him back because we don;t know how to care for animals or this planet. Barbaro was innocent; he did what his humans trained him to do and all he got for it was a bunch of roses and some carrots.

Until we learn that we are not on this earth to exploit it or each other or our fellow creatures, we will never be the magnificent creation God hopes we can be.

DAWN in OMAHA...GOD BLESS YOU TONIGHT !!! YOUR ARTICLE WAS WORTH A PULITZER PRIZE....BARBARO would be so proud ....YOU GO GIRL !!!!! I HOPE YOU EMAILED IT?????

Joe, to try to answer your question - There is a God - but I don't believe he makes choices for us. He gave us humans a free will - and sometimes wrong choices are made, and our destiny can change in the blink of an eye. God did hear our prayers for Barbaro - when Barbaro broke down he did it less than 2 hours from NBC and Dr. Richardson. Everything moved in perfect momentum and order for him to have the surgery to save his life. When laminitis came in July, I believe they gave him a 5% chance to go on - well he did - he bounced back time after time. He was a mighty warrior horse. He would not quit. He was a stallion, but willing to be confined for as long as it took for him to heal. Barbaro's spirit was of God, and God was with him. But God allows us humans to make choices, and some mistakes were made - human error. This is not finger pointing or blame. It is just the way it is, and it is heartbreaking. God didn't take him, but when he went He received him with open arms. Barbaro's spirit is still alive and well. He is right here.

Barbaro came with a purpose - and his Magnificent Spirit is what drew all of us to him to help him accomplish his purpose. His purpose has not changed, nor has his destiny, only the way he died. I believe his destiny is inspiring for the best - and not only for the horse - he inspired all of us to be better people, and some of us will continue his legacy for the horse.

I have been trying to sort all of this out - deep in prayer and meditation and this is what I have so far - his death did not change his destiny, because his destiny has nothing to do with leaving NBC and going to a stud farm - his destiny was never to do with the physical.

Love, Light and Protection for Barbaro

DAWN in OMAHA...GOD BLESS YOU TONIGHT !!! YOUR ARTICLE WAS WORTH A PULITZER PRIZE....BARBARO would be so proud ....YOU GO GIRL !!!!! I HOPE YOU EMAILED IT?????

Hi Donna,welcome! Do you live on the West Coast or East Coast? Not as many of us post this time of night. I live in So.Cal.

How very,very lucky you are you were right there to see our beautiful Barbaro win!! Wow, that must have been incredible,did you get any pics of him?

There's lots of horse owners that post here,if you dont get an answer tonight try tomorrow...

FsOB: I worked all day into the late evening, so am frustrated that I haven't been able to read all of the posts to keep up on plans for the future, etc. I did try to watch the Barbaro Farewell, but couldn't make it through...just too sad. I've never felt so sad about losing someone I never met, but of course, in a way, we have all known him for quite some time.

We know he was sent with special missions....one of which was to show us all what kind of attitudes we are supposed to have and how we should behave in the face of life threatening challenges....and to bring attention to horse slaughter and other cruelties...but also to show us how kind and good some people can be...to highlight advances in veterinary care, and to show the world that racing can and must be made safer. I promise to learn the lessons, Mr. B.

The videos of Barbaro in his prime are so comforting, but I don't think I can stand to see one more viewing of that awful Preakness disaster.

I hope you all have a restful night and a better day tomorrow, my dear friends.

Sandy

### Laurie H.,

I have always found pennies from those I have loved. I'm so glad you found some from Barbaro.

Please never stop tucking him in.

### Mary S., so glad to see you back.

Barbaro, sweetie you are having such a good time in heaven. We miss you so much that it is like a sword in our hearts but time will heal. We have much work to do for you and we will not let you down. Good night dear one.

Thank God for all the FOBs.

Another day without Barbero had ended but I have spent my evening reading all that has been posted today. It gives me great comfort to know that there are so many of us out here feeling this way. But we will focus all our energy on making Barbaro proud of us for continuing on with his causes. And thanks again Alex for all you have done for us and the new pictures you have given us to view. Marcia in Kent, WA.

Dear Alex and all,
So glad you are here. Harriette, I love the idea of the Barbaro Research Center for Laminitis at New Bolton. Many prayers to everyone.
Good night Sweet Barbaro. Sleep well in the lush green pastures of heaven.
Dava R. in Ky.

aw Mickey,
One small ray of light...there is an agreement that Alysheba will be coming home when his stud days are done....his plane fare is already paid for, largely in part to OldFriendsEquine.Org..and Kim Zito flies out regularly to keep an eye on him. She said he is treated like a king over there, but he will be coming home.
Love to Family,
Susan
I love you Angel

There are some really thoughtful and creative short clips remembering Barbaro on YOUTUBE.COM, including the adorable one with Michael Matz introducing his young son to Barbaro (which many of you may have already seen).

I sat down tonight, tried to pay some bills on-line, and never got that far.....I've been hooked on Barbaro, can't help but shed a few more tears for our dear friend.

Goodnight in heaven, sweet prince......green pastures await you at sunrise...

all our Love....

Ken Z and family

Oh, by the way...I did get far enough through the Barbaro Farewell slide show to see the ones of him finishing the Derby with all four legs off the ground...nothin' but air. Magnificent creature. 'night.

Donna, it is very distracting to breed during the racing season, tends to make the stallion more rank. Also it's not against the rules. I had a trainer that bred his stud during the season and it just took so much outta him it wasn't worth running him. Plus his mind wasn't on it.

hope that answers it.

Goodnight Angel Barbaro. You are the eternal champion of my heart.

Goodnight FOBs.

###

Mary S -- Welcome back. Thank you for your words of Spirit. They are a great comfort and "ring true." Sleep with the angels, close to the green pastures of home. ((((FOBs))))

Alex,
Loved the picture of you and Barbaro, I am so glad you got to be a part of his life.

Dr Richardson,
You are incredible, please don't second-guess your work with Barbaro. I have a feeling you are destined for more great deeds in your lifetime as a result of treating Barbaro. God Bless you and your calling.

Mr & Mrs Jackson,
Thank you for all you did for Barbaro and for sharing him with us. There is a special place in Heaven for people like you.

I hope my fellow Barbaromaniacs are finding at least a little peace and some relief from grieving by focusing on the goals we have yet to accomplish in Bobby's honor. Despite the conclusion we all feared, so much good has come about as a result of Barbaro's life, we should all aspire to have that much impact on others. I will never forget.

Believe in Miracles
Believe in Barbaro

###

Joe -- I hear your question, about the prayers. I wish I knew an easy answer.. truly, we would have to ask Barbaro why, too. And did not those prayers raise your spirit, and the spirit of the world, too? And Team Barbaro? Maybe if there is a lesson, it is that all the love and prayers helped him tremendously, lifting his burdens and making his road easier. And to be grateful for what is, not just what our wishes are. Finally, we loved him. We prayed because we had to. Best wishes to you, take care ~

Harriette and Nina, I wasn't going to cry today, not after reading all the articles, not after reading all the editorials, not after reading all the tributes. BUT, your beautiful words and poems were just too much...

I MISS YOU BARBARO, I AM SELFISH...BUT I GET IT...YOU ARE FREE AND WITH YOUR CREATOR.

Barbaro and my friends in our house that Barbaro built, I bid you all goodnight.

Prayers for all creatures great and small.

Sad FOB,

What a miraculous, heavenly story of the meeting of Secretariat and Barbaro and big B's introduction to Darlin'. Barb, is that you... ? Intensely evocative. Tears again, for you and for me.

I read Nina's poem and yes, it makes you cry. That was wonderfully written. I'm so glad we have each other here.

I love Barbaro!

Through rage and sadness and grief, today I finally remembered that soft cocoon of peace I felt for months after my husband died... I found myself wanting to be more giving and comforting to the people around me, more willing to be outside myself and sharing in the goodness of life. Then, if someone should comment on the photo of Barbaro which hangs in the area where I work, and was willing to talk, I could not stop the tears. I think, even as I mutely progress through the day, people can see how I have changed.

And this, from Leslie in MN, struck me today before I read her comments...

"Which brings me to an important point about something that happen to me in my grieving sessions yesterday evening. Like all of you, I am experiencing deep deep emotional pain. After watching Larry King, I was still extremely distraught. I was alone last night as my husband was at work. In my grief, I said to myself, "OKAY THAT'S IT....I'M DONE!! I just want to go back to my normal life ...they way I was before I even knew Barbaro!. I am walking away from this..I just want to forget about all of this! Why did this happen to me??! WHY!!! Where is the lesson here? I am going to just fade away back to where I belong."

I had those thoughts, and thought of all the areas of my life which have gone off to some periphery in the last eight months, and my dogs and cats who wait for the playful attention which used to be so ever present before I settled into the sleep deprived days and nights of reading about Barbaro and horse rescue and anti-slaughter and horse racing and equine medicine, and realized that the old life will never be again. FAT CHANCE that I could ever walk away, having learned those lessons as Leslie stated, those truths made evident by the surreal time of Barbaro in our life. How often can we be touched by the brief shooting star, and not forever be drawn to follow its light... and I still feel like I am in a dream.

I absolutely loved Sabina's photo of two intelligent guys looking straight into the camera. Barbaro looks SO alive there, so much in the present, even more than any other photo I can remember... and it was only a month ago. Oh, my god, I am so, so sorry....

Barbaro,dear one,thank you for all you gave us!
If we were to 'count it up'...it would be far far greater than what 'we feel like we have lost'!

##Thanks to Harriette,Nina,Martita,Shelley and Laurie for their wonderful healing words!

Love to Barbaro,
your special people,and all the FOB's
Love,Linda A
Oregon

Love to you, Linda, and thank you for the good night. Hugs across the miles...

And good night, sweet Barbaro.

DelPark wants to pay tribute to Barbaro
By JACK IRELAND, The News Journal

Posted Thursday, February 1, 2007

http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070201/SPORTS/702010341/1002

Excerpt:

William Fasy said that Delaware Park is ready, willing and able to salute the memory of 2006 Kentucky Derby champion Barbaro in a number of different ways.

Fasy, DelPark's chief operating officer, said on Wednesday that the track is talking about paying tribute to both Barbaro and Dr. Dean Richardson, the chief surgeon at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa. He said DelPark will rename one of its existing stakes after Barbaro, starting with the 2007 meet.

We have had some internal discussion and would like to have some type of scholarship to honor Barbaro in the name of Dr. Dean Richardson," said Fasy. "I haven't talked to Dean or New Bolton yet.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/01/sports/othersports/01barbaro.html

Here's a story about Barbaro's younger brother.
Smile.

It is 5:11 am EST, and I happened across Barbaro's stats on NTRA's site, and it has 'deceased' by his name, which hit me like a sack of bricks...as if I've just learned the news.

Sarah--

just reading the word "deceased" in your post hit me hard enough. The level of acceptance comes and goes. Kinda like when I think I've run out of tears, but haven't.

To all--

Here's a link to a collection of links to 17 videos online at various places, going back to May 31 when Edgar Prado visited Barbaro the first time at New Bolton:

http://bake.wordpress.com/2007/01/29/life-in-video-barbaro/

To Alex--

Thank you for maintaining this site.

Good night all and good night Barbaro.