Dear Veterans,
Let me begin by reflecting on the profound education I have received from you, our veterans. Each interaction, each shared moment at the sanctuary, has been a masterclass in resilience. I have witnessed firsthand how you, who have faced the unimaginable trials of service—deployments that tested the limits of human endurance, losses that scarred the soul, and transitions back to civilian life fraught with unseen battles—rise time and again with a quiet strength that defies description. Your resilience is not the absence of pain but the deliberate choice to confront it, to rebuild from the fragments, and to emerge stronger. I recall a veteran who joined our programs, grappling with the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress. Through our equine-assisted learning sessions, I watched as he formed a bond with one of our rescued horses —a gentle mare who had herself overcome neglect and fear. In mirroring her calm persistence, he learned to navigate his own emotions, step by step. From him, I learned that resilience is akin to the steady rhythm of a horse’s gait: it requires patience, trust, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the path is uneven.
This lesson goes beyond individual stories; it influences the collective spirit of all veterans I have had the honor to know. Your service has instilled a discipline that leads to everyday victories—whether it’s showing up for a workshop despite a tough night or helping a fellow participant in need. I’ve learned that true resilience involves vulnerability, the willingness to recognize when support is needed, and the wisdom to seek it. In our Self-Care Saturday sessions, which focus on mindfulness and connection through natural horsemanship, I’ve seen you participate in activities that promote emotional regulation and self-awareness. One veteran shared during a debrief that leading a horse through an obstacle course taught him to let go of control and adapt, a skill honed on the battlefield but refined in our peaceful pastures. These moments have taught me that resilience is contagious; it inspires not only those around you but also those of us privileged to facilitate your growth. At Henry’s Home, we are dedicated to amplifying this resilience, turning it into a foundation for “winning at life”—a holistic victory that includes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Our sanctuary’s mission is rooted in our commitment to winning at life —a philosophy that Denis and I hold dear. Winning at life, for us, means more than survival; it signifies thriving in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. It is about reclaiming joy, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to a community that values every individual’s potential. Henry’s Home was founded on the belief that horses, with their intuitive empathy and non-judgmental presence, can be powerful partners in this journey.
The horses at Henry’s Home are more than animals; they are teachers and friends in the truest sense. Each has a story of resilience, just like yours—rescued from situations of abandonment or hardship, they have learned to trust again through patient care and the principles of natural horsemanship. This approach, which highlights mutual respect and understanding rather than dominance, reflects the autonomy we encourage in our participants. When a veteran works with a horse who was once shy about human touch but now stands confidently as a guide, the exchange becomes a dance of healing. The horse offers unconditional love, sensing your energy and responding in ways that foster self-reflection and growth. I have seen many of you arrive tired and leave with a renewed sense of purpose, your spirits lifted by simply grooming a horse or guiding it through a liberty exercise. This healing love is what Denis and I try to cultivate every day, ensuring that our sanctuary remains a beacon of hope and renewal.
It is an absolute honor to witness each of you take the reins of your own autonomy, committing to self-growth with the determination that defined your service. Autonomy, in this context, means owning your journey—choosing to engage in our programs, setting personal goals, and applying the lessons learned to your daily lives.
In this spirit, I want to send you an abundance of love and encouragement. Know that you are cherished, not just for your past service but for the person you are today—the resilient warrior who continues to inspire. Your hard work on yourselves does not go unnoticed; it is a source of immense pride for Denis, me, and the entire Henry’s Home community. We are proud of the courage it takes to confront personal challenges, to seek growth amid discomfort, and to embrace vulnerability as a strength. Your efforts ripple outward, touching your families, friends, and fellow participants.
Yet, as we celebrate these achievements, I gently remind you that self-care is a lifelong journey. It is not a destination but a continuous practice, much like the ongoing care we give to our horses. Life’s challenges never fully go away, but with consistent effort, you develop the tools to face them resiliently. At Henry’s Home, we are creating a sanctuary meant to last forever, ensuring it remains a reliable resource for future generations of veterans. Our facilities are built with durability in mind—using sustainable horse care methods, ongoing staff training, and community partnerships that support our mission. All our staff and volunteers are deeply committed to your success. From our program managers, Krista and Carol, who carefully plan activities like Self-Care Saturday, to our dedicated volunteers helping with daily operations, everyone at Henry’s Home shares a passion for supporting you.
As I conclude this letter, I want to reiterate the depth of my learning from you. Your resilience has taught me that winning at life is about perseverance, connection, and grace. Denis and I are honored to lead this sanctuary, where horses offer the healing love essential for growth, and where your autonomy in self-improvement is celebrated. We send you love that warms the soul, encouragement that fuels your spirit, and pride in your unwavering hard work. Remember, self-care is an eternal commitment, and Henry’s Home—built to last with a team fully invested in your success—stands ready to accompany you on this path.
With most profound respect and affection,
Darlene Gagnon
