It is with profound sadness that I tell you of the recent loss of one of our long-time recipients. We provided much needed and appreciated assistance to her for more than 10 years.

This recipient, who chose to remain anonymous, packed a great deal in her 50 years of life. She studied art at the Parsons School of Design and became the ad director for a New York City art magazine. She wrote plays and was a songwriter and lead singer in an all-girl rock band. She modeled for several notable fashion designers.  

In 1987, she contracted HIV.  

Undaunted by her diagnosis, she was a passionate advocate for civil rights, adequate health care and dignity for transgender people and people living with HIV/AIDS. She conducted HIV prevention outreach programs and was appointed to the HIV and Human Services Council of New York. She founded the Equi-Aid Project, a Manhattan based riding program that specifically provided relief and benefits for inner city children suffering from HIV/AIDS or suffering from chronic physical or psychological pain.  

Last, but for sure not least, included in her incredibly rich, varied, yet challenged life was that she was a successful hunter/jumper and equitation trainer and instructor. It was in this capacity that I met her many years ago when we taught together several days a week at Chelsea Equestrian Center in Manhattan.

She was deeply passionate about all her causes, yet very caring and compassionate, especially for children and horses. She was fun and funny; her courage and conviction were truly inspiring. She was a good friend and I miss her. May she rest in peace.

See the letter she wrote to the board more than 10 years ago, but her expressions are just as fitting now as they were way back then.

Zen Horse Scarf is the Perfect Mother's Day Gift - May 8 

Artist Linda Luster wears an EAF silk scarf in front of her famed Zen Horse 1 painting. Photo Credit: The Equiery

Mother's Day is almost here, but there's still time to get a Zen Horse 1 silk scarf. It's a special gift that also gives back!

Artist Linda Luster created the scarf from her popular Zen Horse 1 painting (pictured at right), which features a gold leaf background. The scarf is 100 percent silk and 39" square. It's perfect with any stylish outfit or framed in your home. 

All proceeds from this stunning oriental equine scarf  benefit the EAF. 

Buy now online. 

Special thanks to EAF supporters Karen Long Dwight and artist Linda Luster for their enormous generosity in creating and producing this scarf for the EAF.