This year, beginning February 17, we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse — a rare pairing that hasn’t occurred since 1966. The Fire Horse is said to usher in powerful change and meaningful breakthroughs, and it is associated with traits like heart, courage, energy, trust, determination, freedom, leadership, resilience, spirit, gratitude, strength, and legacy.
At ROCK, we couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate this inspiring year than by honoring 12 of our horses — one each month — highlighting the unique trait each so beautifully embodies.
To begin, we are proud to recognize the true embodiment of heart: Sonny.
Though now retired from daily therapeutic riding classes, Sonny spent years faithfully serving participants on their healing journeys. He holds a particularly special place in the hearts of the veterans who partnered with him through our ROCK On Veterans program. If you’ve seen the documentary “Where the Heart Heals the Soul,” you may recognize Sonny. He was featured alongside Todd, whose bond with Sonny became a meaningful part of his healing after returning from his tour in Iraq. Their connection is a powerful reminder of the partnership between horse and human.
Sonny’s heart extends far beyond his own gentle spirit. Time and again, he has helped mend and strengthen the hearts of others. In a year defined by transformation and breakthrough, it feels only fitting to begin by honoring a horse who has helped create so much positive change.
Today, Sonny enjoys his well-earned retirement in our pasture, still a cherished member of the ROCK herd and still working alongside Todd. While he no longer participates in therapeutic classes, his impact continues to be felt, and his legacy deserves to be celebrated.
If you’d like to help carry the flame this year, consider joining the Horseshoe Club and sponsoring Sonny. Click below to learn more.
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