We all hope it never happens, but there may come a time in our lives when we need to turn to a friend for help.This is what the EAF is to me - a friend. Ever since I was diagnosed with lymphoma and leukemia in 2007, my battle had been a long one and a true struggle to survive. In June 2010, I was extremely fortunate to receive a stem cell transplant at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. The transplant saved my life, but my life hasn't been what it used to be for quite some time. I was told that the procedure would be difficult, that it would be painful and that for at least one year my immune system would be seriously compromised. I would not be able to leave the house for fear of infection. I needed to remain in an antiseptic environment. Grass and dirt were dangerous. The stable was totally off limits. The smallest cut or injury could cause me to bleed to death. This is not good news to a man who earns his living riding and training horses.       

H. Rick Albertson photo by Carien Schippers

Honestly, I was too sick at the time to be aware of how my business would be affected. I had to give up my barn, my students and my favorite horse. I was worried that I would also lose my home. My good friend, Joanne, heard about the Equestrian Aid Foundation from our mutual friend, Mary Phelps, and made an application on my behalf. The EAF responded quickly and started sending me a monthly check. With these checks and with the generous donations from many of my friends in the horse community (and a few people I've never met), I have been able to keep ahead of my bills.

I still have a long way to go before I am well and able to work again. I can go to the barn now, but it is frustrating beyond belief that I am not able to ride. My vocal cords suffered partial paralysis from the disease, so teaching is out for now also. Still, I am very confident that all these things will come back to me in time. In the meantime, I am extremely grateful for my friends - here and in the EAF.    

Thank you to the people at the EAF who have worked tirelessly to raise these funds and made them available to me. And, to the people who have generously donated to the EAF so that a fellow horseman (whom they may know or not know) can  bide his time, get back on his feet and reclaim his life -- thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Read Rick's Story in Dressage Daily - Sept. 2010 

Rick heard about the EAF and its mission through a friend. Please share this newsletter with your friends who understand the need to help people like Rick and want to be a part of the ride for hope.  

Make a donation in Rick's honor.  

Georgina Bloomberg Launches Teen Book Series

Click on the photo to order from Barnes and Noble.

Enjoy her Today Show interview with Al Roker 

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group Inc. International. 

Mountain Trail Ride and Hike Raises Funds and Fun 

The EAF and the Women's Horse Industry Association held its first "Ponie Express for Breast" ride/hike event to raise funds for women affected by breast cancer.

After days of heavy rains, hikers and trail riders were treated to a sun kissed day in the mountains, good friends and great food. Held June 25 at The Settlement At Thomas Divide in Bryson City, N.C., a second event is planned for Nov. 12 to take advantage of the colorful fall leaves. More information to come.

Pictured at right: The Balsam Babes & Bubbas hiking team took a moment to pose with some of the riders before hitting the trail. A group of trail riders head out for the day.  

Thanks to Carol, Jeff, Catherine and everyone who attended 

Full House Expected at The Play it Forward Poker Tournament