If I’ve learned anything in my first three decades, it’s that trauma is a universal experience across all of existence. From humans and all animal species to nations and our planet itself, we navigate life surrounded by traumatic experiences from which we are either hiding, suffering, or running, caught in a complex web of thoughts, feelings, and choices.

Trauma is not a single event with a clear start and finish. It’s a deep, personal, and widespread experience that, if left unrecognized and untreated, often develops into a relentless cycle of harmful behaviors and outcomes, including depression, addiction, self-harm, violence, and early death.

Abandonment. Betrayal. Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Life-threatening illness leading to permanent hearing loss. These are all parts of my story. But the sum of my traumatic experiences is far less significant than the whole and healing person I’ve become. While trauma can have a devastating effect on our lives, we each possess an innate ability to heal when given a safe, supportive environment.

When I sought out a relationship with horses to escape the pain I endured from others, I never imagined that these magnificent creatures would become my benevolent teachers and lead me toward lifelong healing. The deep connections I formed with my equine friends brought me full circle to a restored and healthy relationship with myself, family, friends, and the natural world.

I humbly share my story with anyone facing past or present trauma. I aim to break the paralyzing effects of trauma through a shared connection to my story, hoping it will awaken those unaware of their own trauma. I want to amplify the voices of those who feel silenced and empower everyone to discover their innate capacity for healing. My story is not a hero’s journey but rather a courageous demonstration of how, when given proper support, we can all restore our capacity to live fully with an open heart, without guarding against difficult moments. Ultimately, I hope to inspire anyone affected by trauma to realize they are not alone in their pain.