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Learning to trust something that is so much bigger than me was incredibly healing. Wiley and Lieutenant helped me to let my guard down. During my time with them, I thought of nothing else. No worries or trauma. Just trust
and peace.
- Emergency Worker &
Veteran Family Member
For me coming out and spending time with you and the horses is like an escape from all the stressful things I have going on in my life. I had nothing to look forward to and life was really draining. Then I started coming out and just doing simple things like brushing and walking the horses. It makes me feel like I have something I can do to get away. I love spending time there. When I come out I'm able to just talk about anything and feel free to be myself. I truly love being around the horses and it's showed me that there are things to look forward to.
- Veteran Family Member
Today was the first time I truly felt hope and smiled for real in a long time. Thank you for helping others like us. Thank you for giving us hope
- Surviving Spouse and First Responder
My favorite part was establishing trust and connection with the horse. Grateful for this program and for the opportunity to come learn, grow and be challenged
- Family Member of First Responder
Today I worked with a new horse - helping each other and learning to work through our anxieties and building Trust. I learned so much today about myself as well as studying the personality of the horse...loving this program.
- Veteran
My aha moment was a random one and if I hadn’t been a part of the program, this is a big issue that I would still be struggling with. Honestly I’m just happy to be there to see what else comes full circle for me.
- ER Nurse and Military Family Member
I believe the communication styles I learned and how I choose to show up will directly impact all my relationships. It’s beneficial to translate the sensitivities and reactions of the horses into potential responses from people.
- Family Member of First Responder
You saved my life. You honestly did.
- Veteran
Your program is amazing! Allowing
first responders to have the
opportunity to come out and connect with your horses for mental clarity. I was able to connect so quickly with both your sweet horses, it made for such a stress less time in my life. Having the opportunity to unwind and feeling the loving connection those horses provide truly is a wonderful service.
- First Responder
What did I learn about myself? Worthiness. - Veteran Family Member
I never knew that being around horses could provide such calmness
and tranquility. Getting to hangout
with the horses took my mind off the stresses of work. I really hope your service can help others like it has me.
- First Responder
My family and I are so grateful for Carrying Heroes. Kelsi has been patient and very knowledgeable as we have begun learning about the horses. The time we have spent with her and the animals has been very relaxing, calming, and fun for the entire family. Carrying Heroes is an amazing organization and we cannot say enough good things about it!
- First Responder
I have a lot of anxiety issues. Learning that animals that are much larger and more powerful than me also have anxiety issues... comforted me and helped me. - Veteran
I learned communication techniques and their difference in impact. I also learned how to create boundaries and vision with the horses and lead with confidence. - Family Member of First Responder
One bad thing after another kept
happening and I kept waiting for
something good to happen. Then I
came here. And that first time I felt
lighter. Then I started coming
regularly and I went, Ok...I'm gonna
be ok."
- Veteran Family Member
I was fortunate enough to find
Carrying Heroes after some critical
incidents in my life. After learning
about the program, I decided to give it a try. I have not been around
horses and was quite apprehensive
at first. After a few visits with the
horses, I learned their behavior
would often mirror mine. If I was
anxious or scared, they could sense
this and would have their guard up. If I was calm and comfortable, they
would be as well. This allowed me to
focus on the horses, close off any
outside distractions, and enjoy my
time there. Kelsi and her team are
knowledgeable, friendly, and
nonjudgmental. They are truly there
to help you. I would highly
recommend this program to anyone experiencing difficulty in their life. Interacting with the horses was very therapeutic. It has given me a new perspective on myself, on life, and how I interact with others.
- Veteran & First Responder
Those who spend time with our horses say they learn to trust more, become more confident, and grow in patience. They say they learn about themselves and get breakthroughs in other areas of life because of their time with us. And they all say how peaceful it is just being with the horses.
"We wanted to donate to Carrying Heroes because we feel it's important what is being done to help our veterans and first responders. We are glad to help with such an amazing program!" - Robert Balke, United Shasta
"Giving back to the community is in our nature. During our 10 years in Redding, we have supported many charities. When we learned about Carrying Heroes and what they are trying to establish, we wanted to raise funds as well as awareness of their mission in Shasta County. Rescuing horses and using those animals to help first responders, emergency personnel and their families deal with their unique pressures of serving the community, touched our hearts." - Mike, Beve and Sara Mills