Am I first! Yeah

I think Man in Havana is Barbaro's half brother. Is that right? His full brother hasn't been named yet.
Ashley

###

Ashley, you may be right. I guess I am not sure, then.

getting my tissues ready for the programs.

me, too--------I'm sorry it's so hard for them, too-they have given us more than we could expect and we are grateful for their care and love!!! sandy

Mike, Marky and All,

I have started a thread on the DBs titled "APRIL 29TH MEETING". Please give your input and thanks, I think it may be what we need to look forward to - a celebration of a magnificent life.

I am going to walk my poor dog (Molly) now but will be back later. I fear I have neglected her the past two days. Take care.

Me too Sarah, thank goodness my husband is supportive and understands my sadness - I'm going need him on the couch next me - and my two dogs.

I hate that I'm here without him.

As far as Barbaro's final resting place goes, I think wherever the Jackson's feel closest to him is the best place. Maybe it is Churchill Downs, maybe the Kentucky Horse Park, maybe their own Lael Farm. Maybe it will be Fair Hill. After all, Barbaro's finest moments were enjoyed when he resided at Fair Hill. In all the training pictures, he seemed so happy. Fair Hill was his last home before the accident took him to NBC.

I can visualize the peaceful mornings at Fair Hill when the fog lifts and the geese are at the pond, the fox in the field and deer crossing paths with morning riders. Michael, Peter and Alex would be there for most of the year and it is close to Lael for the Jacksons. Sounds like a place fitting of Barbaro.

The Jacksons have always known what is best for their horse. They will know exactly where he should be.

Thanks, as always, Alex ........ for your up-to-the moment information ......... and for your continual support. It has been a life saver to have this space all along, and particularly during the past most difficult day.

In addition ....... I'm IN for an April 29th .... celebration of Barbaro's LIFE .....
which will be even more heartwarming for me ... since my birthday is April 27th !!

I'm also IN on any fundraising ......
whether it be gardens ....... reflection pools, walks ...... laminitis research ......

The past 8 months have been profound and life-changing ....... I will "carry the flag" and attempt to honor Barbaro and his "effect" .. by changing more lives.

Sherry - Arizona

FYI

If you go to the Larry King website, it give an opportunity to post a question to Larry's guests tonite. I think they take phone calls too, and pick questions from people who submit them on-line. I have already submitted a question to the Jacksons about Barbaro.

A couple of good memories, both involving the great storyteller Bob Baffert --

Baffert seeing Barbaro before the Kentucky Derby and saying to his wife, "Well, I hear he's a turf horse," and his wife saying, "You'd better HOPE he's a turf horse."

Baffert watching Barbaro in the Kentucky Derby with Bode Miller, and Bode delivering the great Jaws line, "Man, we need a bigger boat."

I had to be out in the real world today. It was very strange. I feel much better at home in front of the computer, reading, reading, reading--posts and articles...somehow it helps.

It also helps to know that the Jacksons and Dr. R. will be on Larry King tonight...how tough for them, though, but how helpful to us. they just continue to give even through their pain. I hope they can feel our love for them.

In some post that I've now lost track of, someone mentioned a quote from Edgar...anyone know what is was/where it can be found?

Like most everyone here, I am still devastated, but feeling some stirring of life when I read the ideas about ways to memorialize our boy.

Even though I personally am not a runner, I love the idea of a Run for Barbaro...I'd fly across the country for that and would be a most willing organizer/worker for it. What a great way to raise money in Barbaro's name!

Thank you, Alex and Tim, for continuing to give us this place to meet, and for the continued updates, Alex. I have a feeling that our real reason for being here has only just begun.

Nancy B in CA

Kate, I know how you feel. It's a horrible, empty feeling.

Ashley,
Yes, Man in Havana is a half brother, different mom I think, then there is a full brother, a yearly or so, and so far I've not seen a name for him but there's a picture of him on TWR above under "pictures" I believe.

As hard as it is to read the posts on here (because it starts a whole new crying fit!) I am so grateful for this website. Thank god for you people.
I want to watch Larry King tonight but thought about taping it until I calm down a little. But then I thought about those three folks being on there, 3 people who have been by his side and if they can get on and do an interview and talk about our boy, then I can watch!
I walked to the river during lunch and said a prayer of thanks for allowing us to know such an awesome being and threw a red flower in the water, sorry Buddy it wasn't a rose! :)
My other co-worker just brought me some daffodils to plant in honor of you too! I love you so much Barbaro!!!!!!

I can't post on the discussion board but I am up for the bench, get together, etc.
My e-mail is palmtree@wi.rr.com

Final resting place..what about Fair Hill? Not far from the Jacksons and NBC, he loved it there and the area will never be developed.

I hate being here without him too.

I hope he goes to Lael or Fair Hill. I hope Gretchen keeps him close.

This has been the day from Hell. Two days from Hell.

Devastated.

Lor in PA

What a difficult day this has been. Trying to work wasn't easy but thankfully my co-workers and boss all knew of my devotion to Barbaro and were so kind. I should be dehydrated from shedding so many tears. I was just now able to watch the news conference from yesterday. Someone had said how difficult it was to watch Dr. Richardson at those times he was unable to speak and began tearing up. I couldn't agree more. I just about sobbed at those times.

So many FsOB have come up with good ideas to honor Barbaro's memory. I think they are all wonderful. I also strongly agree with those who have said that one of the best ways to honor Barbaro is to save his fellow equines from slaughter. I am dedicated to that cause and will not rest until it happens.

Janice

A proud fan of Barbaro

Marilyn--

Thanks for posting those stories from the Bafferts and Bode Miller at the Derby. In the midst of allthe sadness, they made me smile.

Mrs. Baffert and Bode sure knew what they were looking at, even if Bob didn't want to see it himself.

Nancy B in CA

Thanks Marilyn! "We need a bigger boat", I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I agree that it has been difficult to go about a normal day while carrying around such a heavy heart. I am not at all feeling any relief. I mean...I didn't cry as much today. But I am still in so much pain. Anytime I see the headline of an article about Barbaro or hear a news item, I have to turn away. The only place I can come is here...and the NBC site as well. I miss Our Boy so badly.

Barbaro's euthanization was an intensely private moment. In the same spirit, I am among those who hope that Barbaro's final resting place will be a private spot and not a public one -- in close proximity to those with whom he shared the deepest bonds. Lael Stables, the New Bolton Center and Fair Hill all come to mind, each for a different reason.

Thanks Alex, I'll be watching.

Candle for Angle Barbaro

Matz soldiers on with Barbaro gone
By JAY PRIVMAN

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. - Horse training requires working seven days a week, but Tuesday was not a typical work day for Michael Matz. He had to do what he always does, coordinate grooms and hot walkers and exercise riders and assistants to get his 67 horses to and from the track at the Palm Meadows training center. But this was the first day since Barbaro, the colt Matz trained to win last year's Kentucky Derby, was euthanized.

"It's hardest when I think and talk about it," Matz said during a break in training at his barn Tuesday morning. "If I'm working, I don't have it on my mind. It's better to keep going."

"Poor old Michael, he hasn't slept in months," Grae Kennedy, one of Matz's assistants, said while his boss was on the racetrack supervising a set of horses. "You know what Michael's like. He's a sensitive guy."

Two cars parked outside Matz's barn had bumper stickers that read "Go Barbaro." The tack room at Matz's barn had a pair of bouquets on his desk. A copy of Wednesday's Daily Racing Form, with Barbaro's obituary on the cover, sat on his desk. An occasional visitor happened by to offer condolences. It all seemed so incongruous to the photo above and to the right of Matz's desk, which showed Barbaro crossing the wire in the Derby, with all four feet off the ground.

"I guess I just have to look at it that I was lucky enough to have had him once," Matz said.

"I'll just have to go out and find another one. But that'll be pretty darn hard. There's no telling how good he could have been."

Matz, 56, has been based at Palm Meadows since November. He spends half the year here, half at the Fair Hill training center in Maryland. Fair Hill is a short ride from the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, where Barbaro spent the last 8 1/2 months. Matz said he flew to Maryland to visit Barbaro on Jan. 13. It turned out to be the last time he saw Barbaro.

"He did so well so quickly after the operation, and then in the beginning of November there was talk about getting him out of the hospital," Matz said. "And then it all went so bad so quick."

"We all knew this could happen, but we hoped it never would," said Peter Brette, another Matz assistant who was Barbaro's exercise rider. "Unfortunately, no one ever saw how good he really could be. We always had said that the Derby was going to be the beginning of him. But it wasn't meant to be."

Matz said he got a call early Monday morning from Gretchen Jackson, who owned Barbaro with her husband, Roy.

"She usually doesn't call that early. She was pretty upset," Matz said.

Two subsequent calls from Dr. Dean Richardson at New Bolton confirmed Matz's worst fears, that Barbaro's condition had deteriorated to the point where he would need to be euthanized.

"Everybody tried their hardest," Matz said.

Matz said he watched a televised press conference Monday afternoon with Richardson and the Jacksons.

"It looked like they handled it really well," he said. "I don't know if I could have done it."

Matz did, however, have to explain the situation to his two youngest children, Alex and Lucy.

"They wanted to know why we couldn't do this, couldn't do that," he said. "They just didn't understand all the ramifications."

Matz was overwhelmed and gratified by the outpouring of emotion directed toward Barbaro from the general public. Although the colt won every one of his races before suffering his catastrophic injuries in the Preakness, his stellar racetrack accomplishments were dwarfed in recent months by his ongoing battle to survive.

"Maybe this was bigger than the Triple Crown," Matz said. "It's hard to say."

Of the 67 horses in Matz's barn, he has a half-brother to Barbaro named Man in Havana, 3, who is by Quiet American. Waiting in the wings is a yearling full brother to Barbaro who has yet to be named. Matz also trains Round Pond, who won the Breeders' Cup Distaff and is about a month away from her first start of the year. As good as some of those horses are, or may be, it would be trite to say they will replace Barbaro. Though Barbaro had physically left Matz's barn the evening of May 20, the emotional void became more pronounced Monday.

"I've just got to remember the good things we had and he did," Matz said. "I guess things happen for a reason. But sometimes you don't know what that reason is. We just have to group ourselves together and try to go on."

VIGIL ANYONE, Now? 7:00 pm eastern time...
For the Jacksons, Dr. Dean, Michael Matz, Edgar, Peter, Eduardo, the staff at NBC.For them. And for the spirit of Barbaro/

I am lighting a candle with prayers for them... join if you can, however and whenever.

###

Mary,

Thank you so much for posting the article about Michael Matz. I hadn't seen any articles inclusive of his perspective and emotion and feelings regarding the loss of Barbaro.
It was good to hear from him
Thank you.

Leslie in MN....These were very wise words.

It occures to me that for me, it was never about his physical presence. It was always about his spirit and his inspiration and his courage. Oh Sure, I would have loved to stroke his velvet nose someday and say hi, but what drew me to him was spiritual presence. I never saw him or touched him, yet he profoundly moved me. I guess that means that he can live on the other plane, yet still affect me in the same way he always has.

I dunno, does that make any sense? He "spoke" to me from 2000 miles away in the first place? Why is that any different than now?

pluSss cudd sumbuDDy tell the Jacksun and Pirkins
peeeeples thaaaat I ran fromm the roses cuz thEy
steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeenk?

LinneeeeeeeeeeeE:;
Can u beleeve it? SEkrEtarrriattTT iz letTing me use his BlaaaackBerrrryyyyyy. My hooffffssfsss are perfect now but the kkkeybooard is rrrridikyoulus. Sayy hi to evrybuddy.

love,
bArbaro

They say that people are put on this earth until they accomplish their mission and then they are called home. I'm sure that was the case with Barbaro. He showed the world how to win a race - even made it look easy. What was harder was to win a race against such tough opponents as shattered bones and laminitis. But he fought a good fight and much was learned from the fight. When they first started organ transplants the patients usually died. But the doctors learned and now transplants are almost routine. I am sure Dr. Richardson and the other doctors at NBC will use what they learned to help horses in the future.

Barbaro won, fought and then won again. He won the hearts of the world and he knew it. You could tell. For awhile he belonged to the world....now he belongs to history.

He's in green pastures now...running with no bandages, no slings, and full grown hooves. As the signs outside NBC said....

Go Barbaro Go!!!!!

I have some good news, some of the MO rescue horses at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch have been adopted to loving homes, they are as follows:
Dudley Do Right- Hermann , MO
Spanky- De Soto, MO
Crashina- Union, MO
Freedom- St. Claire, MO
The horses who will remain at Longmeadow as Barn Buddies are:
Liberty
Mama
Willie
Buckwheat needs our prayers as he has lameness on all four legs and Bazonka Donk's leg is still healing and these two babies aren't ready for adoption yet, but all of the others are except for the barn buddies. Mama is doing well with her pregancy so far, please keep them all in your prayers.
mary mi

FOB:

Well, I certainly do want to support Laminitis research (so, I'm in, Linnie!), and a safer racing industry, and I think a bench is wonderful and anything else... They are both big issues, but what a way to honor our Mr. B.

I still forget he's gone and automatically prepare to go on to the site to catch the news...and then, I remember. Before this weekend I hardly ever wrote anything, just read the site voraciously. I know all your names, you just don't know mine. Now, I just don't want to grieve alone, so here I am for about the fifth time since Sunday.

Regarding his final resting place, I just hope that Mr. and Mrs. J will do what they think is best and what they really want to do, and not allow themselves to be pressured by anyone or anything. I sense that they would always be able to see clearly, so I hope and think that they'd never be influenced into doing something they didn't feel 100% right about. I'll be watching tonight, that's for sure, no matter how much it hurts to do so.

I hope Barbaro's brother will have the same bright eyes and perky ears. Hope Mama is ok, too....soon she will have another foal to nicker to. That, too, is a comforting thought.

FOB 4-ever.
Sandy

Seems to be millions of articles out there, I want to read them all. All of the beautiful pictures of Barbaro.....all of the comments on the forum boards.........

I miss you Barbaro.

Sweet Prince,

I told you I'd be back later....unfortunately I didn't know about the Larry King show tonight! Guess I'll be staying up late to watch the rerun and Dr. R in the am on CBS. They loved you so and I can't wait to watch the shows. I am sure I'll be crying my eyes out again....all I have to do is think about you or look at a picture....which is pretty much 24/7. You ARE my ray of sunshine and I LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH AND LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WE FINALLY MEET! (((HHHUUUGGGSSS)))

I felt and saw your hug to us last night Sweet Prince. The moon with the big circle around it. It was a calming feeling, like you were hugging all the FOB's and letting us you were okay.

Alex, Thank you for all you have done and keep doing in the name of BARBARO!!

Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, Thank you for the gift you gave us in Barbaro. We will never forget him or you what for you did.

Karen - TN

I had to vent some of my sadness and frustration by sending an email to Pimlico (ceverly@marylandracing.com) asking them to accept at least the POTENTIAL for some of the blame for Barbaro's injury and step up to the plate and install a synthetic track. If California tracks can make this commitment, why can't they? If they can't afford to do it, then they should shut down, and the Preakness and other significant races held at Pimlico could be held elsewhere. (I feel the same way about Churchill Downs and Belmont--all dirt tracks.) I can't stand it that the newly named Barbaro Stakes (previously Sir Barton) will be held on a dirt track. I told them I was boycotting watching all racing on dirt tracks. I will not be watching any Triple Crown races until the track surfaces are changed. I'm sure others have made similar comments in this forum, but as the Triple Crown season approaches, I really think we FOBs should raise a stink. Can't we come up with some creative ideas? E.g., maybe ESPN could invest in improving track surfaces as a way to help retain their audience for racing...

I can't find the message board at UPENN. They didn't stop already???

I will be driving home from work at 9pm and will miss larry king. someone mentioned a rerun this evening. do they know what time that is. WE LOVE YOU BARBARO

Alex and FOB,

I have been posting sporadically over the last 9 months. Today I posted a New York Times Edit that really touched me. I am glad it helped others too.
I will continue to post links to good editorials and articles during the next days in hopes they will bring others comfort.
In my opinion Barbaro gave us (the world) his best and brought out the best in all those around him in his victories on the track and at New Bolton.
May that spirit of striving to be the best continue among us all.

Pam

http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/Barbaro.htm

The very last picture is of Sabina & Dr. Dean with Barbaro. I have never seen it before- IT'S WONDERFUL

Posted by: Dale C. / Davis CA at January 30, 2007 11:16 PM

GOD BLESS YOU CHERYL JONES....PLEASE, DON'T STOP RELAYING THE MESSAGES FROM OUR BOY....THEY HELP ME SO MUCH!

pluSss cudd sumbuDDy tell the Jacksun and Pirkins
peeeeples thaaaat I ran fromm the roses cuz thEy
steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeenk?

LinneeeeeeeeeeeE:;
Can u beleeve it? SEkrEtarrriattTT iz letTing me use his BlaaaackBerrrryyyyyy. My hooffffssfsss are perfect now but the kkkeybooard is rrrridikyoulus. Sayy hi to evrybuddy.

love,
bArbaro

Posted by: bArbaro at January 31, 2007 12:10 AM

test

bArbaro---

So GOOD to hear from you!!!

Please keep borrowing that Blackberry from Secretariat until you get your own..and keep writing--we need to hear from you!

Nancy in CA

Alex:

Thank you so much for all that you do and have done until now. You are a complete gentleman and a man of the world. My God shine his light upon you as you walk through the temptations of time.

We love you Alex. Never forget that.

Hi Everyone! i hope you were able to make it through the day. It has been a tough one.
I am so anxious to see Larry King Live tonight. Larry always does so well with his interviews, respectfully talking to people as if he were talking to his neighbor over the white fence seperating their yards - up close and personal.
All of this, the programs, news reports, this site etc. help in the healing process which is going to take a long time.
I know earlier ( and being at work until 8:30 have not had time to read the posts since earlier this morning) people were talking about doing something to remember Barbaro besides continuing the projects already started. Planting a tree at New Bolton, a garden, a plaque, whatever. Please count me in. I would be honored and so happy to be a part of something like this. I hope many of you will be able to watch the program.

Each night like many of you I would say good night to Barbaro and I am not yet ready to stop doing that. So...
Good night Sweet Boy! May your night be comfortable and restful filled with love, apples, carrots and mints when you want them. Have a huge hug and many kisses on your beautiful nose.
You have stolen my heart. Love you so much.

Larry King reruns at 12:00 am (11:00pm my time)

Karen - TN

Thanks Alex for removing the 5:24 P.M. post.
You are tops. Thanks to all that warned us not to read. I am truly sorry you all read it. But I appreciate your protection of us.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

excuse the test

I know you all are grieving and looking for a lighter mood, but have been reading posts that are written just like the ones in the Hay its me bArbaro thread by persons other that the one who wrote the thread. seems a little unkind to me, sort of plageristic, in fact

Apart from that, I share your grief. As a horse lover, owned by them all my life, and as a veterinary practitioner, I find this loss to be monstrous on all sorts of levels.

The Jacksons are dream owners. If only all were as committed to the care of animals. NBC?? the hallmark for equine care. There are good hospitals, great ones even. Dr. Dean Richardson, thanks for humanizing the sometimes unappreciated job you and thousands do. You set the mark, Man.

The people here who made this site a gathering place, wow. Stellar. and those of you who gather here? Wish I could do something to make you feel a little less sad, but I'm right there with you. hope that helps

JT

Thank you so much Alex, for all that you've done in keeping us posted on our Barbaro and other info. You have my heartfelt gratitude especially now. I automatically click on this site first thing in the morning and last thing at night. It seems so strange not to see a report on our boy, not to see ACN.

Someone once told me that when a loved one dies, every time you think of them they are with you, so I have to believe that our Barbaro is here, how could he not be?

I sent a question into Larry King and received an acknowledgement, but I'm not sure I can watch..I've been crying since yesterday morning and every time I think I'm cried out, the waterworks start again.

Barbaro, sweet horse! I wish you lush pastures, cool water, friends to play with, maybe even a lil girlfriend or two. Hugs and smoochies

Thanks Alex. You did it again. I can't wait to see Larry King tonight and Dr. R in the morning. Thank you so much for your alert. How are you doing? We'll all just take one step at a time to get through this together with whatever we can do to support one another along the way and to honor the legacy the Barbaro has given us.
That is why I hope we will not respond to people like Jason. It is really what he wants-to be the source of more upset for all of Barbaro's fans. By not responding at all we remember and live the best of Barbaro.
Thanks again Alex.

Here is the link to the wjz.com videos. Alex was interviewed and this site was shown. Plus they have many many videos of Barbaro.
http://wjz.com/video/?id=18365@wjz.dayport.com

Wow..I am blown away by how much I miss Barbaro!

To all who have acknowledged that you are still crying, I'd like to add my name. I KNOW it will get better.

All, get a good night's sleep tonight, Alex--this means you, too--and I promise it will be a little easier tomorrow. I truly love all of you for being here through this difficult time.

Hello All !

Couldn't sleep last night and imagine not too many of us could - ! Really thinking about Barbaro and everyone who loved him dearly and all of those who grew to know him - Thanks Alex for allowing us to get to know Barbaro -It is not that often that this many people get to know an undefeated Derby winner the way that we have gotten to know Barbaro !

I am a proud Fan of Barabro and hope to meet up with any FOB that plan on going to this years Derby - I will be there in Honor of Barbaro !

I just can't get enough of this amazing horse - I wish I could have given him scratchies !!!

I miss you boy - your Spirit lives on in my heart !

I'll meet you at the winners circle- you fought the good fight and great things will be carried on in your name !

Alex,
I just wanted to thank you for all your hard work in keeping us updated w/all and any news concerning Barbaro, Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Richardson, the staff @ New Bolton, Michael Matz, Edgar and Peter. You have provided us w/such insight to not just the medical information and Barbaro's condition all through his struggle but the daily activities in Barbaro's life these past nine months. Addditionally, I wanted to send my sympathies to you, the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, the staff @ New Bolton, Michael Matz, Edgar and Peter and all Barbaro's fans around the world. Owning a horse is a big emotional investment, one that I would never not want to have in my life! Lossing a horse is a very difficult time, but I just look back @ all the wonderful times that I have had w/my horse and it helps w/the grief. Barbaro has given so, so many people, young and old, a chance to experience the emotions that are created by falling in love w/a horse.
I agree w/Dr. Richardson when he said that he hopes you keep the website open! We can learn so much from each other and with such a strong contingency just imagine what we could do in the memory of Barbaro!

Thank you and with Sympathy,
Mary

I can't find the message board at UPENN. They didn't stop already???
Posted by: Barb AZ at January 31, 2007 12:22 AM

You can send condolences/comments to NBC using this link. http://www.vet.upenn.edu/
near the bottom of the page is Send Condolences. Also good picture of Barbaro and Dr. R.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

OMG
I just saw the last picture taken on New Year's Eve of Sabina, Dr. Richardson, and Barbaro.
words cannot describe....
Priceless..........
Ah...the tears....
Barbaro was just stunning
jan

####
Linda Lee, THANK YOU!

thank you karen

For All Of Us who Love Barbaro
I dedicate this story.

Barbaro was having another bad day, he hadn’t slept well. Even with the pain medicine he still hurt. His legs hurt, all of them, his back hooves hurt. He hurt all over and he was tired. He loved all the people here at NBC, especially Dr Richardson, but he was tired of these four walls, he wanted to go outside and feel the warm sun again. He loved his mom more than anyone, she knew him better than anyone, and bless her heart, she always had the blue tote with the fresh Lael grass. Lately, he didn’t even much feel like eating, but he did to please her, He always tried to put on a show of feeling good for mom, even trying to nip her occasionally to make her smile. He loved to see mom smile.
But still, the truth was he hurt and he wanted Dr Richardson to make him well, once and for all.

When Dr Richardson came that morning, he had his “procedure” face on. Here we go again, Barbaro thought. Another surgery, I’ll wake up in the swimming pool. I sure hope Dr R has the cure for me this time.

When Barbaro started waking up, he felt something tickling his nose and when he tried to open his eyes there was a light so bright it almost blinded him. The light felt wonderful, it was so warm, and it was hard to describe, the light felt like love. It surrounded him and felt so good, like all the hugs his mom had ever given him. When his eyes adjusted to the light more things became aware to Barbaro.

He wasn’t in a pool ,he was in a field of clover and buttercups and the tickle on his nose was a butterfly!He also noticed he felt no pain, his crooked legs were straight again ,his hooves were well ! Dr R had done it, he remembered now the last thing DrR had said….Barbaro when you wake up you’ll be good as new!
The Light he felt, he now knew was GOD himself, the Creator of all life.

God himself welcomed him to Rainbow Bridge. He explained to Barbaro it is here that all animals wait for their human keepers
So they can cross the bridge to Heaven together.

Barbaro had never seen so many horses, dogs, cats, animals and birds of every kind, large and small. Everyone got along, no one was sick and all made him feel loved and at home.

A couple of the horse who greeted him were there by special permission from God, they had already crossed over the Bridge but wanted to welcome Barbaro. Barbaro knew of the legendary stores of Man O War, Seabiscuit and War Admiral, here they were to say hello. There were also a couple donkeys that came to greet him. One once carried pregnant Mary into Bethlehem, the other one had carried Jesus in to Jerusalem.

Barbaro was so happy to be here. He thought this has to be the greatest place in all the world . He spent the afternoon racing Secretariat to the fence and eating clover with Lost in the Fog. Yes, he was very busy his first day at the bridge, he even learned he could FLY!! He always knew he could run fast, now he’d become a horse angel and he could fly!! He could look down on Earth and see all the people who loved him. He could finally put names and faces together. All the FOB that had faithfully loved and prayed for him, sent him cards and letters , baskets of flowers, apples and carrots, pears and those green mints he loved.
He was happy but they all looked sad. He wanted to yell to them,
“Hay, it’s me, Barbaro,I’m well. Your prayers have been answered. Don’t be sad.”

Barbaro had had a long day. He thought it was time to go to sleep.But before he did he had one thing he had to do.

Hello Laurie H,
I know it’s been a long day, you look sad & tired. Why don’t we get your blanket.. Honey, tonight I’m going to cover you with my blanket, the sage cashmere one you gave me, it’s always been my favorite. Don’t be sad, Laurie, God made me well.
Tonight, We’ll pull the blanket high on your neck so you can feel my love for you. As you sleep the dream angel will come. Guess what, Laurie, it will be me! I’m your dream angel now. Sometimes when you’re just waking up, and you feel a tickle on your nose or a hair across your face,you’ll know I’ve been there to check on you. That tickle is my mane touching your face.
Shhh time to go to sleep. I’ll be here for you every night when you sleep.

XOXOxoxo Barbaro

That being taken care of Barbaro could finally lay down to sleep himself. He wanted to dream about the First Saturday in May,the day he and his pal Edgar had run the very best race. He could still remember Edgar’s hand on his mane, the smell of roses, his mom’s hug and he fell asleep hearing the song thousands sung that day…

Weep no more, my lady
Oh weep no more, today,
We sill sing one song for
My Old Kentucky Home
For My Old Kentucky Home
Far Away………………….

I love you Barbaro
Harriette Brillianthawk in Lexington

When my husband died, my pastor told me that God cries when a death comes. He explained that God wanted us to have "The Eden Life", and he is sad when we don't have it. I find peace believing this.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

Barbaro, I love you. I love you, Barbaro.

There are many things I want to say, and I pray Alex and the family give me and others like me time to get to the point where we can put our thoughts together, because I am in despair. I loved him. I prayed for him without ceasing, and my heart is broken.

My husband had to pull me off the computer last night ... I didn't want to leave TWR because I said, "I don't want to be away from him." My son hugged me as I watched the NBC news and said, "It will be alright, Mama." But it doesn't feel alright.

Today I went to the doctor's and a woman who works there whom I hadn't seen since last year said, "Didn't you follow Barbaro and care about him? I'm so sorry for your loss." Such was my love for you, Mr. Barbaro Jackson!

Yesterday a lady on this board said she left work, and didn't see other people crying in their cars. Your neighbor here in Oklahoma was crying in her car.

I love him dearly, I grieve and hurt and know all of you do too. I can't make any sense of it.

I need this Family. I need to be with you who understand. All day I've waited to get here and say that I love you all ... and I loved him.

Barbaro, I love you. I love you, Barbaro.

There are many things I want to say, and I pray Alex and the family give me and others like me time to get to the point where we can put our thoughts together, because I am in despair. I loved him. I prayed for him without ceasing, and my heart is broken.

My husband had to pull me off the computer last night ... I didn't want to leave TWR because I said, "I don't want to be away from him." My son hugged me as I watched the ABC news and said, "It will be alright, Mama." But it doesn't feel alright.

Today I went to the doctor's and a woman who works there whom I hadn't seen since last year said, "Didn't you follow Barbaro and care about him? I'm so sorry for your loss." Such was my love for you, Mr. Barbaro Jackson!

Yesterday a lady on this board said she left work, and didn't see other people crying in their cars. Your neighbor here in Oklahoma was crying in her car.

I love him dearly, I grieve and hurt and know all of you do too. I can't make any sense of it.

I need this Family. I need to be with you who understand. All day I've waited to get here and say that I love you all ... and I loved him.

Jan
Do you have the url for the picture?

Harriette, no matter how many times I read that, I will cry. It is so beautiful. Thank you.

I agree with kathleenk9..what part did Dr. Morrison's cast play in this quick, terrible turn around for Barbaro? Does anybody know?

At work today everyone was coming up to me and hugging me. Telling me they thought of me when they heard the news about Barbaro. I always kept everyone up to date on the updates at the wal-mart store where I worked. For eight months I kept them all informed.

I honestly don't know how I could have made it through yesterday without this message board. Thank you to all of you.

We do still need each other.

Shelley A.

What you said made perfect sense to me.

Sandy,

I'm glad you are posting and hope you are finding comfort by sharing your thoughts with the rest of us.

Janice
A proud fan of Barbaro

Harriette
Thank you for the most beautiful story,
God Bless You
God Bless Barbaro

Prayer for the Barbaro Nation

Weep not for me, gentle souls, weep for your dear hearts that grieve.

You stood by me, and I will always remember.

When you dry your tears, just remember you will see me again...

In the blink of a doe, in the fresh eye of a foal, in the passion at the finish line, that will be me.

So, Listen! In the quiet of your heart a whisper.. the beat of my warrior heart with yours.

For now, know that I will always love you as you love me.

I lived my life with passion, every breath until the last.

Please, for me, have passion in your life.

Run with the wind, sing to the stars, love a horse.

And when you leave, leave a legacy.

While I hold the light to guide you home.

I will never forget you, gentle souls.

Look for me in the best of you.

Thank you all for being my friend.

Believe.


-- Beautiful Barbaro

Harriette,

That is beautiful, THANK YOU! I have tears rolling down my face but picturing the words make them tears of joy....THANK YOU!!!

Karen - TN

Thanks Harriette what a beautiful explanation of our Boy’s life today. All is well. No better life then heaven.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

I can't help but think of the saying, "If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride" because if I had my wish(es), we'd all be riding in tribute to our beloved Barbaro right now...

If yesterday was rough, today was even rougher. Reality has begun to sink in & I just wish it would all go away. Even though I never met him, I miss him. Yet, I can feel his presence now, like his spirit has found its way to each and every one of us-- we're the ones that loved him best outside his immediate family and he knew it. Will the tears ever stop???

Thank you, bArbaro, for your message from hevun. Don't forget to say thank you to Secretariat for letting you use his blackberry. He's a nice horse, isn't he?? Did you meet Ruffian yet?? If so, I told you she's pretty, didn't I? She was my first heartbreak in horse racing, but I know she's safe with you now. I love you, sweet colt and that will be true forever. Love never dies. After all, your hoofprints are stamped on my heart. Sleep well, baby boy. You're my hero.

###
Thanks for your story Harriette - I will cry even more when I hear My Old Kentucky Home- because i aways do and know I will think of Barbaro !

I'm glad we are all still here to share our pain and loss. Barbaro, has been with me everyday for 9 months.......and his loss weighs heavy. Went to sleep crying and awoke at 4am with wet cheeks still crying. One thing for sure is Barbaro will NEVER be forgotten.....his legacy is greater than ever. God bless us all in our grief and thanks to Alex and prayers go out to Dr. R and the Jacksons.......

Linda H in Denver at January 31, 2007 12:48 AM

Here is the link for the Barbaro, Sabina, and Dr. R picture. It was taken New Years Eve. It is the last picture. Also read her comment regarding Barbaro (at the beginnning of this site).
http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/Barbaro.htm

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

Good Night Family! Please know that Barbaro is the happiest he has or could ever be here on earth. He was sent to us so we would know the love of God. We have been touched by God. Keep resting in his arms.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

SUSAN

That prayer is so beautiful: comforting and heartbreaking at the same time. I thought I was out of tears.

On a lighter note: Does anyone have ideas on how to deal with these boulders on my face where my eyes used to be??? I can barely see.......and I still have Larry King to get through.

Amen Marky... hugs to you.

Horse Hands Across America and the World!
Keep the Faith!
God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

There is not much left to say that has not already been expressed. This has been another difficult day, and somehow everybody is getting through their day. The Jacksons, Dr Richardson, Michael Matz, and the rest of Team Barbaro are showing such strength, and I'm encouraged by them.

Though I too am devastated, we do need to finish Barbaro's unfinished tasks. I have read other FOBs mention this, and I too want to work shoulder to shoulder with you to end horse slaughter. In Barbaro's honor, we owe him this much.

Nancy

Judy in CT, that's precisely how I feel. Today has been so much more heavy than yesterday was.

Anyone up for watching Larry King and talking about it during the commericals on this board?

I was leaving the gym tonight and I was listening to some of my favorite inspirational Christian music and as the snow was falling on my skin... it was almost like it was Barbaro running through the snow and kicking up snow under his feet...came on here, and usually I can offer up words of encouragement...and while I am encouraged by those thoughts...I just can't find words right now, even though I was able to find some yesterday...

Thank you Alex, Dr R, the Jacksons, everyone who loved Barbaro so much..and all of you...being here helps...my prayers are with everyone

I'll never stop Believing in Miracles, nor, Believing in Barbaro...his legacy forever lives on inside our hearts

Harriett,I hope your story is really true. I hope he is really somewhere, looking down at all of us, happy healed and free from all of his pains. I am thinking today about animals and their souls. I am not a religious scholar, I don't know what the doctrine says about the animals and what happens after they leave us here. I just cannot bear to think that he is just gone, that he hasn't moved on someplace else. Bonnie, your post about the buddist faith placing special purpose to "old souls" in the form of animals was also comforting. I know that with faith, one doesn't question these sorts of things, but today I find myself worrying about this.

Thank you, dear friends, for holding me up today and yesterday. Alex, please consider keeping this site here in some form or another. I cannot imagine not being here. Crazy, to think that this site is a home, but it is. Please consider it after the dust has settled.

Can someone post a link to the Jackson's interview on Larry King Live? I have to leave the house for a while, and have no way of recording it. I really want to see it. Or if no link is available, please post the substance of the interview. I would really appreciate it.

I keep visiting this website even though the Barbaro updates are no more. I just don't understand. Why do I keep coming here, checking the site multiple times a day? I think I've been here 4-5 times today. It's as if I'm wishing it were all untrue... I keep hoping for a new Barbaro post, but really...what would the post say? This is all just a bad joke? I can't believe he's not here on Earth with us anymore. I AM glad, however, that Barbaro is once again able to run like the wind. He is here with us in spirit... forever...

Linda Lee, that photo is a lovely one if we had to have a last.

###
SUSAN IN SARATOGA - thank you for that devastatingly beautiful prayer - I'm sure I'm dehydrated from sooooooo many tears!
Nancy

FOREVER UNITED AS FANS OF BARBARO JACKSON

Alex: Since the Preakness I have checked this site many many times a day - First thing in the morning, last thing at night, many times during the day...I have checked it in Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Paris, Hamburg, Italy, NYC, SF, my house in Colorado, and my favorite: over Greenland in an airplane flying home....This website, all the people here, and of course, Barbaro, have been such an important part of my life since Preakness day....Thank you for all you have done and all you created..,,

Tears still flow all too easily and I still cant understand why the end is as it was, even though I know first hand how fragile our equine friends are...The only real comfort that comes is by reading the postings here and knowing that others understand...Thanks everyone....

Lisa in Colorado

Erica- because we have come here for comfort for most of a year.

Harriett - what a truly lovely story, thank you for your post. Thank you everyone for all the thoughts you are sharing. It makes me realize I'm not alone, or crazy, in my grief over the loss of this absolutely beautiful Barbaro.

Dear Friends,
I have to share a story. I teach second grade in rural Central Kentucky just north of Lexington. Every school year I do a week long Derby unit with my class leading up to the Kentucky Derby. We research the horses, do activities with the information we have collected, make Derby pies, and go to the Horse Park for a visit. We were overjoyed when Barbaro won.
Then the Monday morning after the Preakness my class only wanted to make cards to send to Barbaro. And we did, sending them to New Bolton Center the next day. The cards were all filled with love and good thoughts.
Today about mid-morning my door slowly opened. In came one of the students from my past school year's class. He held a card which he handed to me. On the card was a drawing of two of Barbaro's silks one with his number for the Derby and one for the Preakness. Above the silks he had written my name. On the inside he had drawn a picture of Barbaro's stall at Churchill Downs. The card came with a big hug. My eyes welled with tears, but my heart opened wide. As you see Our dear Barbaro touched everyone no matter the age.
With many prayers,
Dava R. in Ky.

Alex, thanks again for the link you gave us to Barbaro. It was a treasure. Thank you also for the links to the articles over the last few days. I haven't been able to look at them yet, but in a few days, I'll give them a try. I hope you will continue to post about your mornings at Fair Hill. I love to start my morning with them, even if there is no ACN to look forward to.

Dr. Richardson and N.B. staff, I hope you always remember the many good days you gave Barbaro. Thank you for all you did for him, and all you continue to do for those other precious creatures in your care.

Mr. and Mrs Jackson, Mr. Mantz and Mr. Brette, you have my deepest sympathy. Obviously you do not grieve alone. Many tears have been shed for your wonderful horse. I will do my part to keep up the good work that has been started as a result of Barbaro's journey.

FOB's, I hope we can recover and move on to help all of those horses, and other animals, that still need us all over the world.

God bless animal lovers everywhere.

Forgive me if this info has been posted previously:

Here is a link to info on (((Bobby's))) Dam and all her progeny. I read that she is in foal to a colt by Dynaformer and is due to give birth late in the Spring.

Click on the little cirlce next to her name for all her info.

http://www.pedigreequery.com/la+ville+rouge

I mourn the fact that (((Bobby))) will never be able to pass on his magnificent genes. And while they can never replace (((Bobby))) I am certainly interested in his brothers and thier well being.

((((Alex)))) Thank you.

Pat G
Proud Member
Fans of Barbaro

"Grief in the price you pay for love" Gretchen Jackson

Harriette, thank you for posting your beautiful story and tuck in. It is one of the most loving, wise things I have ever read, I'll never tire of reading it.


To those who are still crying... it just keeps coming in waves. In the grocery store. In the pet food store.. seeing all those animal items for living beings... in the car.

Last night TV showed beautiful footage of Barbaro. Then there it was... The clip of the Preakness. I thought I was ok but suddenly I began shouting at the TV and weeping, "Don't show that, not now... stop it!" I was ready to reach into the screen and pull the %$%**# clip out and tear it to shreds. Angry and totally spent with grief. So much resonates here with your sweet courage... love you all.. sheez, we oughta buy stock in Kleenex Corp. Peace and comfort ~

Just wanted to share this story with everyone..

I was at the horse rescue where I go at least every Saturday, wish I could go more often, but I love it there... Blossom, my favorite there, is just over 1 year old. She's a light brown/chestnut Appaloosa and she's spunky. On Saturday she was in her stall and is usually outside, but was inside. I was petting her head and her neck and she pushed back against me and rubbed my head with her shoulder and leaned into me. It was so sweet when she closed her eyes.

I didn't know it at the time, as I was out all day on Saturday, but this was around the time Barbaro was going through surgery...sorry, not quite sure where I was trying to with it...but thanks to Barbaro, I am able to love and care for her and the other horses there. And without him, I'd not known that feeling

Ryan

I want to watch Larry King, but I don't know if I can. I am just hurting so badly, and I can't seem to bring myself to even look at a photo of Beautiful Barbaro. I feel too raw right now. I never met him in person, but I still feel like he was my horse. And now he is gone.

I am trying to remember things about Barbaro that made me laugh. Do you remember when he first came out of surgery in May, Dr. R said that Barbaro was nickering at mares as he was recovering? What a ladies man!

Nancy Babcock
Thanks for your response to me earlier today..."He's been here all along"...You took my breath away.

I've never posted here before but have been visiting this site 4 or 5 times a day for the past 6 months or so. Just wanted to say thank you to Alex for his devotion to the FOB's and updating this site constantly. As I am sure everyone here agrees, this site has been a great gift and source of comfort to all. Thanks to all the regular posters. I've never met any of you, but your words, stories and prayers have brought many a smile (and yesterday and today) a tear to my eye. I just want to read every article about our Sweet Boy that is written although I can do without the stupid and inane ones like the one written by T. J Simmers in the sports section of the L.A. Times this morning. What an idiot that man is. Anyway, I just wanted to say hello and let you know that for every person that post here I am sure there are thousands that read this website and are grateful for it and the people who so eloquently express their love and devotion to Barbaro. To Mr. And Mrs JAckson, Dr. R, Mr. MAtz, Mr. Prado and all those who loved and cared for Barbaro, a heartfelt thank you for all that you have done to try and save him. You are all in my prayers.
Sabrina in Newport Coast, CA

Bonnie, thank you so much for your post about your belief that Barbaro is a bodhisattva. That is such a comforting thought for me during this really difficult day. I just still can't grasp the fact that he's gone; I'm absolutely heartbroken. In some respects, today has even been harder than yesterday as the reality of this has sunk in.

Maybe someone has posted this already, but does anyone have an address to send a card to the Jacksons?

Thanks everyone.

Hello Sabrina and welcome!

MY DEAREST ANGEL BOY BARBARO, There is an enormous hole in my chest where my heart used to live - you see, you have taken my heart with you, and someday all the rest of me will join you in that wonderful, verdant spot just across the Rainbow Bridge.

I hope you enjoyed the spirit guide I sent you - his name is Chancellor, he was a noble police horse who was skilled in crowd control - he even knew how to walk sideways to move people into position. I know that an ENORMOUS crowd was waiting to greet you - they had all been alerted that an amazing, incredible, gorgeous new spirit was arriving - and I thought Chancellor would be of help to you so that you would be able to greet all your new friends individually and by name.

Life is very grim and dark without you because you are my gift, my prize and my miracle...but I am so happy that your hoofies aren't causing you any more pain and that you have all the fresh grass and treats you could possibly want.

Remember me, dear spirit horse, remember that I love you forever and honor you for enriching my life. The grief is ours because of your absence from our sight - the healing is yours in God's holy light.

I will listen for your nicker in each breath of the wind, I will extend my hand to feel your velvety nose in each snowflake, and I will turn my face to the sun to see your perfect light shining down on me and bathing me with warmth to dispel this terrible, lonely chill I am feeling now.

I love you, Barbaro Jackson - Big Boss Horse - you are the CHAMPION OF MY HEART

Nancy

I don't know if I'll watch Larry King either..part of me wants to part of me doesn't...I couldn't even get through the press conference, but saved the website anyway...

#### Oh Nancy, here come those tears again....

Lisa

#####

Yep, Nancy, me too...

More Kleenex please.

Just heard this on the radio and it tore my heart out:

For Bobby

Last night I had a crazy dream
My wish was granted just this once
It could be for anything

I didn't wish for money
Or a mansion by the blue
I simply wished for one more day with you!

One more day, one more time, one more sunset, baby
I'd be satisfied
But then again, I know what it would do....
Leave me wishing still
For one more day with you

First thing I'd do is pray for time to stop
I'd unplug the telephone, turn the TV off
I'd hold you every minute, say
A Million I love yous
That's what I'd do, for one more
Day with you........ Diamond Rio

Iá­ looking forward to Larry King because of the articles I read it was of some comfort to hear that Barbaro was somewhat comfortable and with Dr. Richarson & Gretchen. That had to be of some solice for him!! The details about how and exactly what happened provided some answers. I worried from some articles that he was just in great pain all night sunday but that was not so. They did medicate him. Just sad anyway you look at it but if his last day was ok!! I feel better!!
An article today with Vic sack? MSNBC Was very good as calling Barbaro an icon who will be with the likes of Elvis and others in death.
We will miss this great horse forever!!!

Devastated is the word! I see myself so many times in the above postings. 2 days of hell, coworkers understanding all the tears, trouble sleeping...cant when crying, still praying, missing Barbaro so much!!!! I cant see to even write this for the tears but I know he wouldnt want me to cry but to be happy for having had him for a little while. Old greedy me wanted more! I will watch tonite too with a full box of Puffs and do what I can to honor our sweetheart, our horse of the century, MY triple crown winner, the boss horse, dearest Barbaro. Love you always Barbaro. There will be a candle lighted for you every day my beauty. The words one in a million were meant for Barbaro.

Mike, Marky and All,

I have started a thread on the DBs titled "APRIL 29TH MEETING". Please give your input and thanks, I think it may be what we need to look forward to - a celebration of a magnificent life.

I am going to walk my poor dog (Molly) now but will be back later. I fear I have neglected her the past two days. Take care.

Posted by: Deborah Anderson/ CO at January 30, 2007 11:44 PM

Deb.

I'm no computer guy.but point me to the db thread so I can sign up..

thanks, mike

I don’t post very often even though I’m here all the time, but I thought you guys might appreciate this.

I had been avoiding Barbaro news today for fear that I might become as unproductive at work as I was yesterday. I had (mostly) succeeded in my effort until I got on the train to go home. After sitting for a couple of minutes, I realized there was a newspaper stuck between my seat and the wall. I had forgotten my book, so I decided to pick it up and flip through it. As soon as I unfolded it I saw him – his beautiful face looking right at me. It was the Jane Smiley editorial that ran this morning in the Washington Post as a tribute to Barbaro. (It's also online.) It was literally the only page there – the entire Washington Post and the Barbaro story happened to end up at my seat at the end of the day.

Of course I read it and the good news is that I was able to maintain my composure for the entire train ride – progress!

Thank you Alex and everyone else for keeping this site active -- you're helping the rest of us more than you know.

NANCY....I'm soooo sad too !!! But struggling to keep my head above water here for poor auntie that I care for.....

WISH I COULD MAKE IT BETTER FOR YOU.....

((((((((((((((((NANCY))))))))))))))))

I'm going to watch Larry King....I have to....I want to savour every last moment of OUR BOY I can find cause soon there will be just memories....

This is HIS TIME TO SHINE A FEW MORE TIMES !!!!!

BARBARO NATION YOU ARE #1 SIMPLY THE BEST

Baffert seeing Barbaro before the Kentucky Derby and saying to his wife, "Well, I hear he's a turf horse," and his wife saying, "You'd better HOPE he's a turf horse."

Baffert watching Barbaro in the Kentucky Derby with Bode Miller, and Bode delivering the great Jaws line, "Man, we need a bigger boat."

Posted by: Marilyn/CA at January 30, 2007 11:46 PM

I remember when he said that.Bob Baffert saying that was HUGE,,I'll never forget that.

I hope he's a turf horse, mrs Baffert knew too.

#####Oh Sheila,
Yes the story is true. I only wrote the words down, the story came to me yesterday morning,even as I was arguing with the whisper in my ear that said, write this,NOW...
I wrote, then I got online,10:45 am yesterday..He was gone already to Heaven. I was writing as it happened. My faith has never been stronger. I had this story on this site by 11:00 yesterday. I have re-posted it a couple times, because it seems to bring comfort, not only to me, but to those who read it and believe.

I Love Barbaro

I BELIEVE!!!!!!

Harriette Brillianthawk in Lexington

Goodnight beautiful Barbaro........

BELIEVE IN MIRACLES
BELIEVE IN BARBARO

Lindann

###

Nancy in CT,

Absolutely amazing! Thank you for sharing your heartfelt post and giving Barbaro soo many blessed gifts for him to call his own in Heaven.

Thank you Nancy!

Thank you Kristen!! I just read the article by Jane Smiley and in an odd way it comforted me.

I hope all of the FOB's will read it.

### Mike C.

I meant to say the thread on the FORUMS. I am so drained that I don't know what I am doing half the time. It is under the Barbaro section. I have asked for any of the FOBs who live close to Fair Hill/NBC to grab the reins and do the planning from your end. I am so far away I can only do what I can by email. But I am willing to help in any way possible. Thanks.

All day I've waited to get here and say that I love you all ... and I loved him.

Posted by: Kathryn in ok at January 31, 2007 12:48 AM

We love you too Kathryn and we love him too, so very much! It hurts, have a big rock in my chest.
God be with the Jackson's and Dr Richardson.
Help them get through this with Larry King.

MikeC.

http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley

Sweet Prince,

I have to start closing up here. I will be watching your Mom and Dad on the rerun tonight. Dr. R, I'll record in the am and watch when I get home tomorrow after work.

You have a peaceful night flying high with all the other angels....Hay, would ya do me a favor??? Would ya give RUFFIAN and big old sloppy kiss for me???

I love you SWEET BARBARO...good night and sleep tight....I'll catch in the morning.

((HUGS))

BLB!!

PROUD FOB FOREVER!!!

Karen - TN

((((((((((((Nancy in CT)))))))))))))))))))

Harriette

I just want to report on Monday I checked the headline news briefly CNN and there it was Barbaro Euthanized top story!! This was about 11:30 and I thought I was going to choke and gag!! I'm a branch manager of a bank and I had clients in line to open accounts etc..Then I checked quickly this site and no info just the get well posts and gifts etc... My heart just sank thinking of what the FOB's where about to learn. Iám so sorry for everyones pain and I have it too! I just fell in love with this horse at the Derby!! I liked him alot before! You are very sadly missed Barbaro.

####
Kathryn in OK--
I can completely identify with your feelings. I can't yet fully communicate with Barbaro about all that I'm feeling...can't seem to find the right words...
####

I'm incredibly grateful for all the FOBs. I haven't posted often in the past, but in just "lurking" over the past 7 months, I feel like I've grown to "know" all of you anyway. Never have I met a finer group of people (and I usually say that I like animals better than many people!)--so talented, driven, compassionate, sensitive, and genuine. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Kelly

Just got home from seeing my horse April. I groomed her which she loves and gave her lots of carrots which she loves even more. For the first time since Sunday I felt some peace. Something about a barn does that. I love the sound of horses eating their hay a night. Strange I know.

When I stopped at my local liquor store (yes a martini is needed tonight) the owner asked me how my horse was and then started talking about Barbaro.

Everyone loves you champ!

######

ALERT

FOB'S

Larry King is on in about 8-10 minutes.

Just in case you want to watch Mr. and Mrs. Jackson.

Barbaro Forever!!!

I have the "Barbaro Effect"
Donna in GA

JT - nice to hear from a vet that you share so many of the feelings we're suffering with here.

And Erica, I've been struggling with that same thought off and on all day: I can't believe he's not on Earth anymore. It is stunning how quickly the lifeforce of someone we love disappears into thin air. And there you are, alone.

I'm beat, but stopped in to say goodnight to all.
Thank you, Alex.
Love to Family,
Susan
I will always love you, Big Boss Hoss, our Angel.

Whew!! I got a bandwidth error message and had a "heart stop". Still have to have my TWR fix!

They are only on for about 19 minutes. It was hard for me to watch the footage about Barbaro, however it was easy to watch the interviews. The Jacksons looked ok, better than yesterday.
I missed the first few minutes, what happened?

me too Mary!!

.."Racehorse Barbaro put to Death"??? Could grief could they be any less sensitive...Sheesh. And couldn't they remove the banner at the bottom so we could see the full pictures of Bobby. Double Sheesh!!!

Of course the Jackson and Dr. Dean were worthy of Barbaro. And I'm glad Mrs. Jackson was able to speak regarding horse slaughter.

It was a nice interview. Larry King mentioned at the outset that they had had scores of emails since the appearance was announced. The Jackson's stated they were still thinking about where he will be buried.

Out here on the west coast, so just saw the Jacksons and Dr. R. on Larry King.

Mrs. Jackson is just amazing. Did you see the expression when she was asked if he would be cloned? As if personality were just a collection of molecules! And she was so clear and concise on slaughter.

Wow!

And how beautiful he was! Oh, my. We have been so blessed...

Later -

- Jean

This might sound crazy, but if the burial is public, I might want to go.

#######

I also stopped breathing when I got the error message!

######
Thanks Jim

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Special hello to all the new posters!

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Jean,

That was priceless.

I would like again to ask anyone who feels as strongly as I do to please email the Los Angeles Times to complain about the story by columnist T J Simers. You can't help some of the thoughtless people that have commented on this site, but this is a paid columnist in one of the great papers in the United States. I know him and he loves being outrageous and thinks he's untouchable. Let him know he's not.

Is there any way we can see the Larry King interview online? (Don't have cable TV)

That girl on the right (Larry King)doesn't seem to know anything about horses or what is right in that situation. Can't even talk about this right now... Barbaro, God blessyou...

I asked earlier and did not see a response-
Would someone let me know the title of the forum thread about a bench at NBC?

Harriette -- you wrote it as it happened -- my goodness.

Did the site crash temporarily? I had a stroke.

I was paralyzed with sadness yesterday. But his presence today is so strongly with me...I think his spiritual bond with us will only continue to strengthen over time.

Barbaro, all was done in the right way and the right time... i too question this in a time like this... Having another dr. come into his health.

All was for Barbaro, for the love, the inspiration, for all that he was...
thank you

Lisa - If it's the PETA representative, I turned her off five minutes ago when she started bashing racing. I know it's not a perfect sport but it doesn't need to be banned.

Marg

I know it wasn't intentional, but it really bothered me that the 'Get Well Barbaro' signs were visable.

I'm so impressed with the Jackson's and Dr. R. This has to be excrutiating for them, yet they continue to be so gracious.

Because of Barbaro, the anti-slaughter bill has now become known to even more people. Thank you Larry King for allowing them to talk about the bill.

PETA, yuk.

On the interview, it seemed to me Dr. Dean is very very very down.

Anna

It's under the General folder - Memorial bench for NBC.

Does Peta want all pastures and open ranges to be artificial stuff too?

I couldn't get over how "interested" Larry King was on the topic of Euthanaisa! First with the Jacksons and Dr R, then with Jack hanna and Bo..
I wanted to tell him ENOUGH already!..

BO, I sure love her, she put the "stops" into Ms PETA lady.

####

ANNA in Texas

Look under the General heading for Memorial Bench for NBC. Hope this helps.

Good Night to all FOB's

Barbaro Forever!!!

I have the "Barbaro Effect"
Donna in GA

Linda H
I'm sorry...I just checked back on this site & noticed that you had requested a link to the gorgeous picture of Barbaro, Sabrina, and Dr. Richardson.

This will take you to Sabrina's main page:

http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/photos.html

**Then click on "Barbaro"

I believe the picture I referred to was the last one on the "Barbaro" page

It is a beauty....!!!
jan

Harriette, thank you for reassuring me. I am truly moved by that story.

Goodnight FOBs. I am going to play a game with my son, pet my dogs, and try to get some actual sleep tonight. I tried to put my contacts back in today - had to take them out yesterday due to all the crying, and out they came again a little bit ago! It seems that crying with contacts causes you to see as if in a fog (I guess the tears get stuck under the contact lens), which I suppose is appropriate considering the circumstances. It's a good thing I got home safely!

Tomorrow will be a better day for us all. Barbaro will be stronger in our hearts. He -and us- have to figure out this new relationship and I guess it will take time.

Hi everybody. Although I have never posted a message before, I have been checking in & reading them regularly. I am also broken-hearted about Barbaro but I agree with Mrs. Jackson's comment that maybe he is now racing across heaven with Secretariat!
I don't know if anybody has mentioned this before but Barbaro shared a birthdate (April 29th) with another famous (& great) racer who also lost his life in a tragic racing accident...Dale Earnhardt Sr. (1951-2001). Kind of ironic, isn't it?

Hi Julie . Thanks for the warm welcome. Just wanted to say that Mr. and esp. Mrs. Jackson were the epitome of class on Larry King Live. I thought it was gruesome the way Larry King kept wanting to hear details about Barbaro's death. He even asked Bo Derek about what it's like to put a horse down. Very creepy. Love to all in Barbaro Nation.

We will alsways love you Sweet Boy Barbaro!
Sabrina

let's not forget what Barbaro instilled in us?

We have sent you on a journey free of pain. Not because we did not love you but we loved you too much to force you to stay. Barbaro, how we miss you.

I read many stories today about Barbaro and was pleased to note that the majority were thoughtful and positive. I feared there would be a lot more like that L.A. Times creep. Beyond insensitive!

I am in full support of an apple tree, bench, garden and whatever else NBC allows us to provide. Many people will find comfort there.

It was good to see "the family" on Larry King. Not much new information but reassuring to hear about our beloved horse. Dr. Richardson needs to take a vacation. He has been under so much stress. The poor guy needs a break.

The last two days have been particularly difficult at work. Without this support group it would be even harder. Thank you all for being there and keeping the Barbaro Nation alive. Thanks also to Alex for keeping the website going. I'm sure it has been a very difficult time for him too.

Good night to all you wonderful people. I lit another candle for Barbaro tonight and hope it will help me sleep better tonight. He is in a better place now.

Liz from Queens, NY

** CHERYL JONES***

I HOPE YOU CONTINUE YOUR "HAY IT'S ME BARBARO"-- I HAVEN'T READ ALL THE POSTS OBVIOUSLY, THERE ARE SO MANY. BARBARO CAN WRITE US FROM HEAVEN, YES I SOUND LIKE A 12 YEAR OLD GIRL, I ALSO HAVE BEEN SLEEPING WITH MY BARBARO BEANIE BABY, BUT I REALLY HOPE YOU'LL KEEP IT GOING.

LOVE YOU,
CHERYL G

####
Debbie LA and Kelly, thank you for your words. I cannot stop crying.

####
Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, you were the epitomy of Grace in the Larry King show. You are emblems of peace and grace. Bo Derek is a true lady, and Jack Hanna is a good guy.

Love to this Family. Love to Barbaro.

Sending prayers to Mr.and Mrs. Jackson and Dr. Richardson for a restful night.
Goodnight Sweet Prince. May you have a restful sleep in the arms of God.
Dava R. in Ky.

#####
Jim F--I would not waste my energy writing to Simers at the LA Times (which is NOT a great paper--their circulation is decreasing faster than they would like to admit and Simers' column is an effort on his part to get people so angry they buy the paper which would boost the circulation). I think too that sending emails to him would allow him to show his bosses that he has a writing style that sells papers.

Don't give him the satisfaction.

Those of us who love animals know that animals bring out the best in us. They teach us about compassion, honesty, caring, patience (anyone who has ever potty trained a puppy knows about patience ;o). They also teach us about unconditional love. They don't care how we look or dress--or smell. They love us because we are US. That's all it takes.

Animals improve our species.

For those humans who do not appreciate animals, nothing we say or do (or email) will change their minds. Someone today on a talk radio program was laughing that a reporter on ABC News commented that Barbaro's last meal was grass. The caller and commentator thought that was very funny. The commentator said he was making fun of the media for thinking that was a pertinent bit of information rather than making fun of the death of a horse, but it wasn't much of an apology.

He had not a CLUE about the significance of that grass--the specially handpicked greens from home, delivered by Momma Gretchen to send Barbaro, tummy full, on his final journey.

Let us hope that these heartless clots--the trolls and radio talk show hosts and sports columnists and their ilk--learn about compassion by having something they care about lost to them. Whether it's their computer crashing, their 3 to 5 favorite coming in last and ruining their Pick 6 at the races or whatever, may they be jeered and laughed at by others so they know what it feels like firsthand.

And let US, FOBs and others, continue our good works, sending compassionate wishes to each other and seeking ways to honor those of us who have lost so much.

JMHO.

Goodnight Barbaro,

Sending you big hugs and kisses from the other side. Miss you so much but I know that you are so happy now-- and that is all that matters sweet one.
Love, XXOO
Brenda

Another long day. The world is a different place now. Something vital is missing.

I wish the Jacksons could have had more air time tonight, but in light of what they have been through, I am once again amazed and humbled by their generosity and grace. Were I in their shoes, I do not know if I could have made it through the show.

The photos and videos of Bobby made me ache and cry. I am trying very hard to believe that he is well and whole again, running and jumping and living somewhere. Unlike many of you, I was not raised in a church, and have no religion and no faith. This has not really been an impediment for 43 years but it is now. I want Bobby to be out there somewhere enjoying life with all the spirit and curiosity and fire he showed us.

Like many of you, I need to get proactive here again. Count me in on the memorial, the run, and of course, the slaughter ban and safe tracks projects. We are all down but not out.

Funny how things change. I remember so many evenings sitting down at my computer to make sure Bobby was comfortable and to read some tidbit about his day. We FOBs sat up late in the late many a time, celebrating his life and recovery, crying and coming together in his down times, rejoicing when he fought back to the lead once again.

After we got through July and early August, I truly did not think we'd have to come together to mourn him.

Dear Barbaro fans,

My name is John Hennegan and I am a friend of Alex Brown. My brother Brad and I have directed a documentary entitled THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY. The story follows six horses - including Barbaro - to the 2006 Kentucky Derby.

We are currently submitting it to film festivals. Our big hope is to get into the Tribeca Film Festival in NYC at the end of April. Although the exact details about when and where the film can be seen are still up in the air, we wanted to put it on the radar of all Barbaro fans - especially those on timwoolley.com.

We will be posting updates on the film's status as they come in. In the meantime, you can see a trailer on our website........

www.henneganbrothers.com

Alex, Gretchen Jackson, Michael Matz and Peter Brette have all seen the film and all have told us they like it. Gretchen told us that it helped to remind her of what Barbaro was like before the injury.

With Gretchen's comment in mind and after discussing it with Alex, we decided to post a few outtakes of Barbaro in his prime on youtube.com. Here is the link......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvD_Qa8FdN4

We thought we'd post some more outtakes this week as Alex has told us how much the fans of this website would like it.

We hope you like them and look forward to all of you enjoying the film sometime in the near future.

And on behalf of all racing fans, a big thanks to Alex for his great work and kickass updates and the last 8 months.

Regards,

John and Brad Hennegan

####

Susan E, Me either. I am going to the Rolex in April. The event is at the Horse Park and I thought I would be visiting Barbaro in Lexington. So close to a happy ending and maybe that is what is all so hard about this.

Big Hugs to all FOBs - this is indeed a difficult time.
However I must say that I was so impressed with Mr. and Mrs. Jackson and their attitude and composure. For me they are true role models and it did my heart good to see them now and hear their positive words on Larry King.

Speaking of positive words, like so many of you I have been disgusted with the heartless headlnes to the articles written on our precious Barbaro. I wanted to share the one written in my local paper which I actually liked.
It said:
ONCE RISING, RACEHORSE BARBARO'S STAR NOW SETS

Good Night Sweet B...

I am know I am partially in denial, but I will keep on talking to him, because he lives in my heart & always will. He will never die as long as we remember, carry him in our heart & do things to honor his name.

I love you B...forever & always.

Hugs to all FOB - I know you are all hurting as I am.

I missed Larry King but I think it's on again later and I'm going to tape it. I have to confess, I stayed home from work yesterday because I was so worried; as it turns out I'm glad I did, I could not have kept it together, crying infront of students is not good. But even today was hard. I was very "scattered". I'm sure everyone felt the same way.

I haven't seen any posts for Mary S, has anyone heard from her?

Good night magnificent horse, I know you are strong and happy and will have everlasting ACNs. I miss you Barbaro.

Sleep well FOB's ...

Here is another interesting article, from USA Today which had a wonderful quarter page photograph of our Barbaro in the newspaper, and this article has the funny picture of Barbaro out walking with the good Dr. R, showing off his beautiful neck, saying "Look at me!".

USA Today

Somehow, continuing our interchange of communication makes it feel like he is still here to me. I had a very sad and reflective day away from the computer while at work, and yet talked about him to anyone who would listen...

Awaiting Larry King on CNN here on the West Coast... thank you, Alex. Hugs.

This is a beautiful article that encompasses the feelings that all of us have for Barbaro. Hope it makes everyone feel better...it helped me.

Sports Buzz

January 29, 2007
Barbaro was the little engine that could
My intuition has always been strong, and Monday morning was no different. I awoke with a sense of dread I couldn’t shake. I put it out of my head for a while, but it kept creeping back in.

I listened to ESPN all morning for updates but didn’t hear anything dire, so I went upstairs to do some work on the computer. A few moments later, a message left on my cell phone delivered the grim news: Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro had been put down, eight months after he suffered a life-threatening breakdown in the Preakness Stakes.

I went numb for a while. I paced around the house, searching for words that would describe how I was feeling. I sat down in an attempt to gather my thoughts, and that’s when the lump formed in my throat. Then the tears began welling as it sank in that Barbaro, the charismatic, brave and magnificent creature, was gone. The world suffered a deep loss Monday, and I feel as though I have lost a dear friend.

Monday afternoon, I spoke with my significant other, Tommy (a fellow horse racing aficionado), about our memories of Barbaro. We were together last May at Churchill Downs for Barbaro’s awesome Kentucky Derby performance. Tommy saw Barbaro in the paddock before the race and what struck him was how everyone there got quiet when Barbaro came out. Even the other horses stopped what they were doing to look at him. He was that special.

It’s always tragic when a life is cut short, but it seems especially so of an animal. Barbaro was a wonderfully talented athlete, but what made me love him was the abundance of human qualities he exhibited. Like many athletes, he knew he was gifted. You could see it in his demeanor and in his eyes, and how he carried himself on the racetrack.

Being trackside is always a thrill, but being there for history is especially intoxicating. Watching the Kentucky Derby from the grandstand at Churchill Downs, I was treated to a thrilling performance by Barbaro, who beat an impressive field to win the 132nd Run for the Roses.

Barbaro’s victory seemed fated, as the artist commissioned many months beforehand to design the Derby admission tickets had fashioned a colt wearing No. 8. It seemed no coincidence that Barbaro crossed the finish wearing No. 8. At that point, it seemed obvious to me he was meant to win the race.

One thing that struck me was how calm the colt had been before the Derby. That’s very unusual, especially for a 3-year-old. He seemed to know he was destined for greatness. He won me over that day, and for the first time in forever, I truly believed we had a future Triple Crown winner in our midst.

Barbaro had personality to spare. He was charming and soulful. In a time of pessimism and cynicism, he gave us hope. He won us over with his bravery and iron will. What he gave us was priceless – before and after his career-ending race. He was the little engine that could, and he was fortunate to have doctors, owners and a loving group of people in his corner who would move heaven and earth to help him.

Barbaro seemed to possess an innate understanding of his serious situation, and he was a model patient: cooperative and appreciative of what his medical staff was doing for him. He continued to amaze the world with his spirit and willingness to survive.

Vets who worked on him were struck by Barbaro’s intelligence and his innate understanding of what was required of him in the healing process, from relaxing in his sling so as to reduce weight on his feet, to cooperating in the recovery pool after cast changes. “He has a very positive attitude,” chief surgeon Dean Richardson said of Barbaro. “If you look at this horse, it would be very hard to put him down.”

Just a month ago, I wrote about four racehorses I had seen this past year that had all experienced tragedy. Of the four, only Barbaro was still with us, still fighting. I was cautiously optimistic at that point that he would still be able to enjoy a long, comfortable life he so deserved. There was even talk about releasing him from the New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania, where he had been convalescing since May.

But talk of that proved premature when the colt suffered another setback earlier this month. Owners Gretchen and Roy Jackson – who just last week received a special Eclipse Award of Merit in the aftermath of Barbaro’s injury – reiterated their desire to keep him alive and continue treatment as long as he was comfortable and not suffering.

As he had time and time again, Barbaro quickly showed signs of improvement and pulled through like the champion he was. The world seemed hopeful yet again that he would bounce back for good and get to enjoy the quality of life he so richly deserved. But over the weekend, he suffered another significant setback – this time it was a deep abscess in his right hind foot – and doctors performed more surgery. The procedure was even more risky than others he had undergone, prompting his surgeon to say Sunday that if the bone were to break again, “I think we’ll quit. When things start to go bad, it’s like a house of cards. If one thing fails, that puts more stress on another part.”

It made me think of a line from a nursery rhyme: “All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put Humpty together again.”

One of the things that makes thoroughbreds so amazing is their ability to run on those frail, delicate legs. As strong as his heart and his will were, it was Barbaro’s body that ultimately betrayed him.

Barbaro had a difficult time through the night, and he finally showed signs of suffering. The difficult decision was made to end his life Monday morning. He is gone now, but thankfully so is his pain. Barbaro made the world a better place, and I can only hope that wherever he is, he’s running again.

To Barbaro, I say goodbye. You leave me with a heavy heart but a lifetime of wonderful memories. You and your legacy will not soon be forgotten.

VICTORIA MARTIN

I just wanted to say, I'm a half hr from NBC and about 2 hrs from Fair Hill ...so if I can help any way in transporting anything or doing anything that needs to be done, please let me know.

I will do anything I can for those not near here.... my email is rjones_24@hotmail.com

Barbaro, thinking of you often...

Ryan

##########
Susan E,

Amen!

Last week many of us were here talking about the Eclipse awards (makes me unbelievably mad now)and Dr. R, had said how optimistic he was about Barbaro getting thru this last set back. He actually said last Monday he had a good day and then..bam!

We were so close. I keep thinking about what Dr. Anderson said when she went to say goodbye to him a number of weeks ago. He was standing in his stall without his cast, looking out the window at the fileds. It breaks my heart!

If we feel this way, can you just imagine how all of them feel???

Dear Hennegan Brothers -

I just watched the trailer and out-take. It raised my spirits and actually made me laugh out loud!!
THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH!!!
I am really looking forward to seeing the whole movie.

To Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Richardson & Staff, Edgar Prado, Michael Matz, Peter Brette & Staff our hearts go out to each of you. Barbaro was a true champion loved by the world. He was one of the greatest race horses ever. I once heard Smarty Jones referred to as another Seabiscuit if this is true Barbaro is another Man O War. A statue of Barbaro should be placed at Churchill Downs to honor this great and beautiful horse.
God Bless each of you and God Speed Barbaro.

oh Nancy.....
I always knew what LOL meant, but how do you say sobbing out loud.........life is truly grim and dark , there is a emptiness where my heart used to be........and I will look for him everywhere.....
Precious One, did you have to take our hearts with you?
We will always love you, and fight for what is right, always in your name.
Susan

Thank you, Hennegan Brothers.

###
LAURIE, MARIBEL, JULIE, LISA & HARRIETTE - thank you for your kind words and hugs - I am so lost...nobody in my daily world "gets it" and although I have lots of vacation time and some personal days, I have been captive at work the past 2 days...did RUN out of the office when I saw the news, went next door to the federal court building where my buddy Marvin, a former mounted unit PD officer, is now a marshall...needed SOMEBODY who would understand. This is "almost" funny - Marvin had heard on the early news that Barbaro had a bad night Sunday (as per Dr. Dean), and when he saw me charging through the doors, he said to his co-workers "Oh, s**t" because he knew why I was there. He waved me in and in my delirium all I could say was "I'm going to beep, I'm going to beep" (through the security scanner). He just held on to me and rocked me like a baby and all he said was "I know, I know, I know." BTW, Marvin was Chancellor's trainer/rider - Chancellor who I mentioned as Barbaro's spirit guide for crowd control in the post you enjoyed. The mounted unit officers are pretty pragmatic about horses (usually) because of their line of work, but weeks ago when I told Marvin about Barbaro lining up his treats on the windowsill, he just stared at me and finally said, "I swear to God that horse is human!"

I feel like a dead person...

SUSAN E - my faith is as shaky as jello, but for me the concept of the Rainbow Bridge isn't exactly faith-based, but more centered in our love and connection with our animals! Blessings to Felix from Maizie & Seamus...Maize the witch/nurse cat didn't eat Sunday night or Monday morning - had me in complete panic because we'd come so far - I guess she was telling me what I didn't ever want to hear, because Monday evening she ate everything - I think she knew Barbaro was whole and healthy again!

THANKS FOR BEING HERE...especially for those of us who have no support/understanding outside of this site!

I'll be emailing my post to so many wonderful cyber-friends who have been bombarding me with messages for the last 36 hours...I just was incapable of writing now, and finally emailed everybody that they'd hear from me later...

I can barely imagine the agony of Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Dean, Michael & Edgar - I will be writing letters to all of them this weekend when I have a wee bit more emotional stability.

Thank you John (Hennegan) for sharing outtakes from your upcoming documentary THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY. Just the small outtakes reinforce how special Bobby was. I can't wait to see the rest of you and Brad's film. How can we help you get it screened at Tribeca?

I second the shoutout to Alex for his efforts in updating this site and sharing news with us!

Thank you, Hennegan Brothers!

If you haven't checked out their youtube piece, please do. There's our boy full of spit and vinegar and ever the star! He KNEW he was special, and he was right.

Can't wait to see the movie!

John and Brad Hennegan Brothers.

THANK YOU for that Video. It sure lifted my spirits.. well done and well NEEDED..

Good luck on the film Festival.

Hello Barbaro,

Are you finding your way around? Don't worry Honey, you know you have sooo many friends and loved ones with you. Yes, just like here on Earth!

Honey, do you remember when I explained the Man in the Moon and Making a wish on the first star you see at night?

Well, there's something else I want to explain to you...that will help you in Heaven.

There's a song called Catch a Falling Star. Many parents sing it to their children...
It starts, "Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket, Never let it fade away.
Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket,
Save it for a rainy day..."

Honey, your Mommy loves you sooo much. You are a trusted confidant to her. That will never change Barbaro. Never.

So some night, if you see your Mommy while she's looking out a window and she seems sad, just give the brighest shining star you can find, a good swift kick! No, you won't get in trouble...

You see, the star will lose it's balance and start falling to Earth. Your Mommy will look up and see it and she will know you are there.

She can hold onto that memory Honey...for a rainy day. But, I think she'll hold on, forever.

Barbaro, I find comfort in your favorite things. I went to the grocery store and actually smiled at the pears, apples and carrots! I have a deeper love for all of my blankets... I miss you. I love you.

Dream sweet dreams Barbaro. You're in sweet dreams as well. Your healing is complete and strength carries you through your day. I love you sooo much. But then, you already know that. Good night Honey. I'll see you in my dreams... XXOOxo

####

Hello Hope,

Today was another tough day Little One. Many tears but had to try to hide it because I was at work. I didn't do too well.

But then I received an email that I was sooo excited to see! Do you know what was in my email?! A picture Hope. A picture of you!!!!!

Little One, you are beautiful! I cried happy tears while sitting at my desk! I tried to quietly grab tissues and not draw attention to myself but again, I didn't do too well.

Honey, your colors are splendid! And your round tummy tells me that your foal is growing! Now, I am more excited than ever for you to deliver your foal.

But, you do need your rest. Let's grab your blanket and wrap you in it.

Your Dream Angels are waiting to take you to beauty. Please close your eyes and drift off to Dreamland. Good night Little One. I love you. xxoo

Thanks again Alex for the heads-up on LKing and cbs early show.

The Jacksons and Dr. Dean again showed great composure during the interview and seemed to be handling it better than at the press conference.

It was great to see them and hear them talk about their beloved Barbaro.

Thank you Harriette for the beautiful words on Barbaro's new life. The floodgates opened once more.
I miss Barbaro so much. I also hate being here & he's not here. When will the tears stop? Yet I feel the need for them to not stop. The grief is so deep & empty.

I thank God that all of you are here to talk to.
I used to feel like I was out of place in this world, but now I know there are people like myself out there. I only wish I knew you personally. The people I must face & work with each day are nothing like me, which makes it so hard. I can only hope that some day I can meet many of you, kindred spirits, FOB's forever.

The spot on Larry King showed a very tired & sad Dr. Richardson, of course. I worry about him & hope he is okay. The Jackson's did a great job through their grief & Mrs. J's comments on horse slaughter are now out there for millions to know. Thank you Barbaro -- your legacy continues.

I want to do all I can to help with a memorial, only I don't have much money. This really bothers me. But count me in & I'll do whatever I can.

A light snow is falling & I thought about Barbaro's soft nose with the pink snip. Lord, I miss him. How I get through the work day is a mystery to me.

Strangely, on the morning of Barbaro's passing I felt a strange emptiness, yet peace. Then I read the posts & found out why. I've been just about inconsolable ever since. It comes in waves. I feel so sad without you Barbaro, Brad & Mom are sad too.

Bless you Alex for letting us have this place...you are a prince of a man & some day I'll come down to Fair Hill to visit. Please keep the site & board open so we can exchange ideas & future plans. I still want to hear of your beautiful mornings in the mist at FairHill.

Barbaro,
"Thou are gone from my gaze like a beautiful dream, And I seek thee in vain by the meadow and stream." George Linley

I miss partaking in your tucking in each night, Bobby. So I'll say sweet dreams, Precious Barbaro-have a blessed night in Heaven. Love,kisses, hugs, & scratchies

Dear Hennegan's: Thanks....The outtakes made me smile...I very much look forward to your movie...

Lisa in Colorado

To John Hennegan,

We have all faith that your new documentary will be an incredible coup for the Tribeca Film Festival - and I hope for many more film festivals more widespread in the near future if possible. As stark and grief driven as the story surrounding Barbaro is for all of us at the moment, I believe this story is going to become as inspiring and beautiful as he was, and will live on as magnificent representation of the animal athlete achieving greatness and as proof that exemplary compassion for animals and horses exists with courage, character and love in the owners, trainers and jockeys of these horses. And to see this on the big screen... with a hero named Barbaro... what can I say?

Thank god you were there to film this story... and thank you for keeping us informed of your plans. We still believe!

Thank you Hennegan Brothers and thank you Alex!

Barbaro had a very happy yet short life.

O, Laurie, Laurie, I weep again. How very beautiful...

John & Brad Hennegan...from the moment the ever-present, ever-generous, ever-talented Alex mentioned your film, I have been waiting for the day to see it. While it is too soon for me to look at the clips, I do so appreciate your posting here...and know that many people have been comforted by what you so generously shared tonight...in my own time, I will watch, and will wait eagerly for the release!
Thank you, gentlemen!
Nancy

John and Bran Hennegan, Thank You! I'm sure many of us will be checking out those links and looking forward to THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY. I hope it is VERY successful.

Hello to all who are still here. I have been an occasional poster and a constant lurker. I live with my cats, rarely leave my home and many days do not see anyone else. So all of you have been a primary comfort to me in my concern and adoration for Barbaro. I miss him sorely, as I know all of you do.

The lit candles are now below 9000, the number of posts are a small fraction of yesterday. I am bracing for the day when nearly all will have moved on. I anticipate that I will NOT have moved on. I expect Bobby to be with me when I take my last breath.

I worry about what will happen here, to this site and its future. I could not have made it without it. I hope it does well and that Alex and Tim can continue this site in some new way as a home for people who care about horses.

One of the innmuerable, wonderful things Alex has done is to archive the updates--all the way back to just before the first surgery. I have saved the archives on my computer and online. I never want to lose them. Printing them--without all the comments--runs over 400 pages. It's been a long haul, friends! But it doesn't take that much space to save them to a computer.

I hope that we will all do as Mrs. Jackson has asked and do what we can in our own ways to carry out the things that Barbaro began.

Thank you to all of you and may God bless each and every one of you as we go from here.

Thank you for the video! I can hardly wait to see the movie. It did make me cry, but seeing him is so wonderful.

Was too happy to see Gretchen looking a little better on Larry King live just now!! What an experience she has gone throught and only yesterday her champion was euthanized !!! I was very worried about her with Monday's reports and amazingly she sprung back like her fabulous horse Barbaro>>>>>>> Best Wishes Roy and Gretchen Jackson! What issues you have brought to the forefront with Barbaro! And Dr. Dean Richardson could you be any horsese savior. We did see your caring and ultimate proeffesionalism!!! You deserve all the claim to fame you have admonished! Just watching those clips of you and the great champ are heartwrenching today!! But lovely before!! You are the best vet and hopefully can give more for your students! Will miss your videos and photo's with Barbaro" A HUGE TEAR THERE!!!

Laurie H: Thank you for that tuck in - Beautiful as always - Falling stars shall forever have new meaning....

I looked out tonight and saw a huge full moon - It seemed to have a big smile on its face and I thought its because Barbaro is nearby in the heavens...

lisa in Colorado

###

I'm sorry but I think I missed the link or something to the Hennegan Brothers video. Would somone please tell me where to find it?

Thank you!

###
CHERYL NY - plans underway on the Forum for us to gather on APRIL 29th at Fair Hill - I'm hoping to figure out transportation to get there...maybe it's something you'd like to consider!

Finally I'm home from work. I've been reading the comments here all day at work, trying unsuccessfully to keep from weeping. I've been so moved by the comments here. My heart goes out to all those close to Barbaro, and especially Alex, who I'm sure must have gotten extremely emotionally involved with Barbaro. I'm still as devastated today as I was yesterday. I will hurt for a long time.

Barbaro was more than just a horse. He was an incredible energy force, possibly sent from God to restore some humanity and love amongst us.

Of all the public figures who have passed, that I was extremely shocked and saddened over: Princess Diana and Steve Irwin to name a few, Barbaro's passing has hurt more than anything I've felt before. How bewildering that Barbaro can move us like this. Sure makes you wonder.

I will never forget him.

For those of you who watched Larry King, you saw that even through the grief of her loss, Gretchen Jackson made a valiant effort to make the public aware of the horse slaughter issue in this country. If she can do it, so can we!

The publicity we received tonight from Mrs. Jackson and Bo Derick is invaluable. We must “strike while the iron is hot”. Mrs. Jackson did that and she has asked us to do the same.

While I know we are all overwhelmed by our loss, this is the time to make our voices heard. Millions of people heard about the horrors of horse slaughter on Larry King tonight and we cannot let this opportunity get away from us.

In Barbaro's honor, please contact your representatives and urge them to join us. This is also the time to contact everyone you know and ask them to do the same. Everyone has been following this story for two days and we now have the attention of the entire country!!

PLEASE, we know how hard it is to rally but we would be wrong not to seize the moment. Barbaro would expect no less of us. Let’s not fail him.

Shelley and Debra

###

Thank you Lisa Leach. I haven't seen a falling star for years...I can't wait to see the next one and the next one...

Take care Lisa. Please kiss your kids for me!

Laurie H. in MN - Tonight's is perfect! Thank you.

Good night, fellow Fans. Good night, Barbaro.

Marg

Hello to all. I to have never posted here, but after reading for so long and finding myself in the company of such wonderful people who share my feelings, I decided it was time to check in and say hi!
I am so glad you are here. I too feel others don't understand. When I heard the news, I just cried out no, then I just cried... and cried...well you know. I walked around like a zombie, I was just numb. When my husband came in from work, I was here with you. I totaly forgot about dinner. All I could do was turn and ask.. did you hear. I guess by the look on my face, he knew what I was talking about. His only comment of the entire night was "the whole world knows". He left me alone with my grief after that. I don't even remember making dinner, thats how out of it I was. I see and hear so much of myself in all of you. You have said what I have been feeling from day one. I've enjoyed the laughs and was so happy to have you to share the tears.
I am so thankful for this site and visit every site you recommend. But I am more happy that I know I'm not crazy and I'm not alone.
Thank you for being there for me, even if you didnt know I was here.
I love and miss you sweet Barbaro.
I will help fight on in your name. Have already sent out the Anti HS booklet fom Michelle. Looking to do more.
My love to you all.
Verna1

Laurie,

You're tuck in tonight for Barbaro was wonderful. I, too, imagined him playing among the stars in Heaven and every now and then sending one down to Earth to remind us he's still there, watching over us and making sure we carry on his work.

Thank you Laurie for sharing your talent with us.

Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Jackson for sharing Barbaro with us.

Thank you Dr. Richardson for sharing your skills with the world and helping Barbaro.

Mostly, thank you Barbaro, for being the handsome, sweet, inspiring, intelligent Champion you were and always will be. I'll love you forever.

Harriette Brillianthawk, thank you for that story. Now my keyboard is wet from the tears dripping down again. I needed that.

Joe in CA

Back to the Barbaro Nation...a place of kindred spirits

I thought I would share a poem by Emily D...(I made a change from house to stable) I do not think she would mind.

" The hustle in a stable
The morning after death
Is the solemnest of industries
Enacted upon the earth,-

The sweeping up the heart,
And putting love away
We shall not want to use again
Until eternity"

We Love You ((((((BARBARO))))))

Hey all.

Just perusing the posts and trying to keep it all together.

Everyone here - lurker and poster- are such tremendous, wonderful people! So glad to be associated with you all!

It's just now sinking in that I won't see ACN, and it breaks my heart. But, Barbaro is running free now - like the wind! He'll always be in my heart!!

With regards to Larry King and the euthanasia topic: I don't think he meant to be insensitive; I think he was trying to help those out there who have never been through it, understand what goes on. And, believe me, there are plenty of folks who haven't lost a loved one before, or have made that ultimate decision. I've been through it several times, as many of us here have been. His "Put to Death" heading didn't sit well with me, but I think his intentions were good. He's a big racing fan and an animal lover.

My heart aches for the Jacksons, the Matz family, Dr. R. and the staff at NBC, as well as everyone at Kennitt Florist (our lifeline for supplies for Big B.). And, my heart goes out to Alex, who I know is hurting.

Hang in there everyone. Barbaro is now in a position to watch over us all, and I believe he will. Couldn't think of a better guardian angel to guide us and help make it a better place for horses!!!!

Love to you all-

Julie Z. (in Houston)

Laurie H; Hennegan Bros message is at 3:13 am

SHELLEY A

I thought PETA didn't support us in HR503....was I just dreaming???? Someone anyone...the answer please????

John and Brad

Thank you for sharing it with us and good luck with the film.

****
Nancy in CT-thank you for telling me about the 29th of April. If there's a way for me to work it out, I'll get there. If not, it will happen at another time -- it has to, as the feelings are too strong.

You are all the best!! I have to get up early, so I'll sign off for the night. I'm SnowFireGal on the board if anyone wants to message me.

Dr. Dean, hang in there. You're an amazing person & phenomenal doctor & we are all here for you too.

Nitey nite Barbaro - I love you so

John and Brad Hennegan...THANK YOU SO MUCH for your post. That clip of Barbaro is priceless.

PETA is against slaughter but their methods are a little extreme. If you noticed, they are against just about everything!!
They are not a group we necessarily want to be associated with because their program is, many times, perceived to be polarizing.

REPOST from the Hennegans:

Dear Barbaro fans,

My name is John Hennegan and I am a friend of Alex Brown. My brother Brad and I have directed a documentary entitled THE FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY. The story follows six horses - including Barbaro - to the 2006 Kentucky Derby.

We are currently submitting it to film festivals. Our big hope is to get into the Tribeca Film Festival in NYC at the end of April. Although the exact details about when and where the film can be seen are still up in the air, we wanted to put it on the radar of all Barbaro fans - especially those on timwoolley.com.

We will be posting updates on the film's status as they come in. In the meantime, you can see a trailer on our website........

www.henneganbrothers.com

Alex, Gretchen Jackson, Michael Matz and Peter Brette have all seen the film and all have told us they like it. Gretchen told us that it helped to remind her of what Barbaro was like before the injury.

With Gretchen's comment in mind and after discussing it with Alex, we decided to post a few outtakes of Barbaro in his prime on youtube.com. Here is the link......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvD_Qa8FdN4

We thought we'd post some more outtakes this week as Alex has told us how much the fans of this website would like it.

We hope you like them and look forward to all of you enjoying the film sometime in the near future.

And on behalf of all racing fans, a big thanks to Alex for his great work and kickass updates and the last 8 months.

Regards,

John and Brad Hennegan

Posted by: Hennegan Brothers at January 31, 2007 3:13 AM

####
Thanks ShelleyA and Debra, WI.

Hard as it is, this is the perfect opportunity to make our push. If Mrs. Jackson has the presence of mind and composure to open this door, we owe it to her and her horse to follow her lead.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

###

Lisa Leach,

Thank you! I have got to see their work!
I appreciate your help Lisa.

Hi all FOBs - my server at work was out all day and maybe that was a good thing. I needed time to reflect and compose myself. I cried my eyes almost swollen shut last night.

Huge photo of Bobby on the front page of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette this morning.

Thank you Alex, Tim and all FOBs. I love you all. I am ready to get back to work to continue BARBARO'S legacy to end slaughter.

Blessed we are to be here and to share all of this astounding journey together.

I watched Larry King tonight. The Jacksons and Dr. Richardson, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Edgar Prado (along with all of the other good folks who took part in Barbaro's life on the track or in the hospital) IMO are all good hearted people. It's nice to know that there is so much goodness in this crazy world these days.

####
Thanks ShelleyA and Debra, WI.

Hard as it is, this is the perfect opportunity to make our push. If Mrs. Jackson has the presence of mind and composure to open this door, we owe it to her and her horse to follow her lead.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

#### Sweet dreams, Laurie H - thanks for tucking us all in along with Big B...I hope you feel tucked in too...

Lisa

###

Marg in Maine and Lissa in PA,

Thank you for your kind responses to my time with Barbaro. He is, and always will be, an inspiration to me.

Thank you.

A very sad and tiring day. I read through the comments and saved links to pictures and articles to look up later when I have more time. And I wonder sadly what this was all about.

Why did God not listen to the prayers of so many good people, such unselfish people, who weren't even asking for recovery for their own pets but someone else's racehorse that most of us would never have even seen? People who were just hoping for one happy ending in a world so filled with sad things happening. People who were just unselfishly happy that Alex had a chance to visit with Barbaro and groom him and walk him around. People who were just unselfishly concerned for the Jacksons and Dr. Richardson and the staff at NBC and Kennett Square Florists. People who have guilelessly and innocently made themselves vulnerable to cruel ridicule. People who patiently and faithfully prayed and lit candles and asked God to help. And God did not help. Yes, I know the answers to what I've written but for now they are not working for me. I am just too sad. Not incapacitated, but sad and tired and the world seems so dreary now. And I don't really want to "feel better" or "get over it." I want to understand, and I don't think I ever will.

But thank you again to Alex. And thank you to Harriette for reposting that beautiful message.

###Robbie in Fresno, I am there too!

Hi, FOB's!

I watched Larry King - Mrs. Jackson sounded so sad but was eloquent on the slaughter issue. I just want to put my arms around her. But she and Mr. Jackson are such class acts. And Dr R. - what can I say? He cared about Barbaro. Truly cared. When I see the footage of him taking Barbaro out to graze - well, they're just 2 best buds. Forever. Dr. R's smile just lights up his face and it brings me peace to know he experienced that joy, that connection with Barbaro.

Ryan, good to see you back...

We're all tired, worn out, exhausted, drained. For some of us the tears are still flowing freely. Fot others, we can start to laugh again at the gentle posts from bArbaro in hevvin on the celestial Blackberry...:)

The healing is continuing for us.

There have been some fantastic ideas for memorials and I'm sure the Jacksons will choose the best ones.

April 29th at Fair Hill? I'm there. Nothing could keep me away.

Am off to get some much-needed sleep. Take care of yourselves and each other.

You are all the best.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

###

Lisa,
With the comfort of everyone's words, I DO feel tucked in. And with Barbaro in our hearts, we'll ALL have sweet dreams.

And I almost forgot: thank you to Laurie for the beautiful tuck-ins. You have a special kind of sweet spirit.

Laurie H.,

I will never look at falling stars the same again.

I have to tell you that I pictured Barbaro in his stall yesterday at the final hour with his owners, Dr. R., the staff and all of our blankets! Your tuck-in on Sunday night is something I will remember for the rest of my life. We were all there with Barbaro and I believe he knew it.

Thank you!!

####
Kathie - You are in Fresno???
It is so good to see another FOB is here.
If you want to email me:
chrmd@comcast.net

I cannot tell you how comforting it is for me to come to this site and see that I am still not alone in my grief over precious Barbaro! To know that I am not the only "zombie" walking about aimlessly out there today does help. I just couldn't seem to focus on anything today, just absolutely nothing. . .

Thanks again to Alex for creating this site so long ago and keeping it afloat for now. I see that others are asking what now? I hope that somehow this group of fine folks can stay together in some form to discuss Barbaro, his legacy and issues that have become so important to us all.

I didn't intend to post tonight (so little still to say really, especially when there are so many others on this board with such a gift of words -- for that I am grateful!!), but I took a peak at the youtube outtakes by the Hennegan Brothers, and I really urge you all to take a look, too!! Really, it is a very short take, and I couldn't help but laugh at Barbaro -- what a ham! I mean I had read about his personality in articles and on this site, but to see it so candidly really made me smile. Tears? Yes, of course, but a little laughter through tears isn't a bad thing. It can help some with grief -- my grandmother just passed last month at the age of 93, and after her funeral our family just sat and remembered some of the funny things she said or did. The pain is still there, but it helped.

Please, take a look at the youtube outtakes. To see Barbaro run off playing coy with the camera made my day. I still miss him, but I can just see him up there right now frolicking about, the vision of health and happiness.

Thank you, Hannegan Brothers, for such a needed treat, and I anxiously await seeing your film. Good luck.

Good night, dear Barbaro, and good night, all.

Good night Alex - Hope you sleep okay. Thanks for all your updates today. Barbaro is still our beautiful boy. Always

Night everyone...

What I keep thinking is this...Maybe God had planned on bringing Barbaro home back in May, but He knew we needed to build this family first so that we could have people to talk to who really 'get it'.

Just a thought.

As devasted as all of us are, we can't imagine the loss the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, the NBC staff, Tom, Tim, Alex and all the countless others who were so close to our precious Barbaro and his daily, hourly care have had. Remember to light candles for them too. They need to feel God's comfort through our prayers and support.

###

Kathie and Mary,

Thank you. Thank you so much for your kind words.

Mary, I believe he felt and feels our love and energy every day. How could he help but feel it? It was and is soo strong. Still.

Thank you again and please, take care.

####
Lyn,
Thanks. And I agree.

Ryan

Laurie H, your tuck ins are getting better and better. With those and Cheryl Jones' bArbaro posts from hevvin, the gentleness, laughter and love continue.

Also saw the outtakes and laughed for joy. Barbaro loooooved the cameras, yes?

Am going to sign off, get some sleep.

Hope everybody can get some rest tonight.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

###

Lyn,

Thank you very much! I too, must get ready for bed.

Good night.

Harriette......Count me among those thanking you for your beautiful story about Barbaro in Heaven:)
I think you should write a book!!!

Cheryl...I am so glad Secretariat loaned Bobby his blackberry, I do hope to hear more from my Handsome Sweetheart:)

Thank you, Alex for allowing us to be here together. Thank you too, for all the newest posts for us to read, YOU ROCK, ALEX:)

Goodnight fellow FOB's I hope we all sleep better tonight and I'll see you again tomorrow.

Goodnight Handsome Sweetheart:) Did you have a busy day today with all your new friends in Heaven? I know you are happy, running free and being a BUSY BOY...that is good, Bobby, that is good! I love you forever!

Lynne-Your Friend in CA

Thank you John and Brad Hennegan. I'm very much looking forward to seeing "The First Saturday in May." Thanks also for the YouTube clip. Just when I thought I couldn't cry any more tears, that clip brought them right back. I loved watching Barbaro just being himself...he was so alive! In a way it's hard to watch that now, but I'm glad I did.

The word heartache is literal, isn't it? My heart has literally been aching today. I'm just so sad. I really want this pain to pass, but I know, having lost my mother, that there is no time frame for grief. You just have to let it runs its course...I wish this course was run already.

Thank you Alex for this board. I have met some awesome people in here. I have a concern though. I found some things out today concerning Barbaro and his condition at the Preakness that the public does not know about. There was a reason WHY he stopped the first time that he went out of that gate. I don't really want to get into detail here but if anyone is interested in this let me know and I will be happy to dicuss this with any of you....... This is a very scary thing..... I am not pointing any fingers but I feel that some things should come out so that people better understand why this happend to Barbaro.. In other words, it could have been prevented....... I just found this out..............

Barbaro, I know what you were trying to do and I am soooooooooooooo sorry that you had to endure this. I hope that you are having fun now and I will see you on the other side. I am going to talk about what I found out. I don't think you would mind would you??????

Love Nina......................

I'm glad that you are enjoying the outtakes...John and I will post another tomorrow.

All the best,

Brad

I've been reading posts yesterday and today and crying until my eyes have burned. It's wonderful to be able to see comments from so many who loved Barbaro as I did. It occurred to me yesterday after trying to digest the news that he was gone that I had ordered a gift basket for him that was to be delivered February 3rd. I called Kennett Florist to request that it be sent to the wonderful doctors and nurses at NBC and got so emotional that the poor lady couldn't understand me. This has been devestating, but thinking that Barbaro won't be here to get his basket was heartbreaking. I believe, like so many of you that have posted here, that Barbaro is in Heaven now and is whole and beautiful, running in the wind, grazing in the sunshine on delicious grass to his heart's content, feeling no pain. That is the only way I can handle his loss.

Thank you Alex, you are truly wonderful and deserve all the praise in the world for keeping us informed everyday. I echo all the previous comments that I don't know what I would have done for the last eight months without this site.

Barbaro, everytime I wrote a post it was addressed to you and I can't post tonight without talking to you directly. I love you fella and am in awe of your strength and courage. You are truly an inspiration to the world.

My heart goes out to the Jacksons and Dr. Richardson, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, the NBC staff for what they must be feeling now. I tried to imagine Dr. Richardson going to work today and how strange it must have felt not to have his favorite patient there. The same for Mrs. Jackson who so lovingly went twice a day to see her baby.

Anyway, nothing I can express captures my feelings of loss. I just keep thinking again and again what a wonderful, majestic, inspiring, intelligent, beautiful creature we have lost and then I make myself transfer my thoughts to seeing him happy and whole again in Heaven and that gives me some peace. I just miss him so much though. Barbaro, I know I will never forget you and will always feel huge wells of love for you. I would also love to join in any tribute, fundraiser, etc. for our wonderful fella.

Verna,
Welcome to the Family, and I am glad you finally posted. You aren't alone, and please post . We all need each other in this unbelievably sorrowful time.
I need to get some rest (I keep saying that, but not doing it, but I have to)

Love to Family,
Susan

SHELLEY A..THANKS for the explanation.I was getting a little bit annoyed at that PETA person !!!!! When she appeared to insinuate things about the Jacksons I was just about off my chair attacking the TV screen but lucky for MS PETA and my TV...BO DEREK came to their defense !!!! THANK YOU BO....I WAS IMPRESSED !!!!! I enjoyed seeing OUR BOY in the spotlight where he belongs and YES I'm still peed off that he didn't win ALL THE ECLIPSE AWARDS !!!!

NOW I'LL CALM DOWN FOR OUR BOYS SAKE !!!!!

I look forward to April 29th but must get a passport now.....ugh !!!!
I'd really like to attend the BARBARO STAKES....
HOW DO YOU ALL FEEL ABOUT IT??????

LAURIE H...I want to buy a book of your nightly tuckins....I think it is just what we FOB'S need to rehabilitate us....proceeds to go to Laminitis Research or The Barbaro Fund...your choice !!!!
They are quite simply precious !!!!! You wouldn't deny us in our time of need would you ???????????
Look at us we're wrecks....WE NEED THOSE TUCKINS LAURIE..........so is that a YEAH or.....????

WE ALL JUST MISS HIM SOOOO MUCH !!!!!!

I Love you Barbaro.....

Thank you so much for the outtakes. It was so good to see him running around just being a horse. We who only knew him these last 8 months never got to see that.

THANK YOU, BARBARO

by: Kimberly S. Brown, Editor, "The Horse"
January 2007 Article # 8802


A world apart from New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania sits a group of equine practitioners for a continuing education meeting in Baja, Mexico. Even here, several time zones and hundreds of miles away, Barbaro has been on everyone's minds. Then came the news that Barbaro was gone.

There were tears shed by those whose job is the daily struggle with decisions of life and death for horses. There was a quiet time of reflection and prayer for the horse, those connected with him, and the world that mourns him. That time was lead by Scott Palmer, VMD, Dipl. ABVP, a noted equine surgeon from New Jersey who was leading the scientific program, and has a special connection to Barbaro and the people around that horse. While these are Palmer's words, they seemed to echo the sentiment of the veterinary community.

Palmer went to high school with Barbaro's trainer, Michael Matz. That friendship grew to include a professional relationship when Matz began training Thoroughbreds, and Palmer worked with him as a friend, and a veterinarian.

Now, said Palmer, Barbaro's end marks a very emotional time.

"He was a warrior and courageous patient," Palmer said of Barbaro, emotion roughening his voice.

Palmer was at Pimlico Race Course watching when Barbaro was trying to claim the second jewel of the Triple Crown. The misstep out of the gate caused adrenaline spikes, but the horse seemed okay as he dug in for the race. Then came the step that changed everything.

"He took care of himself right down the track from the start" when he was injured, recalled Palmer. "He crabbed down the track sideways to protect himself.

"He handled himself well" throughout the ordeal, Palmer said in a low voice. "He was patient with all of us trying to help him. He was calm. He was a classy horse, and he took care of himself. He helped us help him. He deserved the opportunity to live."

Palmer gave accolades to the team that got Barbaro off the track, from jockey Edgar Prado's quick thinking and handling of the horse, to the ambulance attendants and track veterinarian.

When Barbaro arrived at his stall on the backside of Pimlico, Palmer was part of the group of veterinarians who literally held Barbaro up during the X ray process. He was part of the team that decided the horse's injuries were extensive, but the champion deserved a chance.

"Everyone knew it was going to be a difficult prognosis," stated Palmer, but that didn't deter the team effort. Palmer, Matz, and veterinarians Nick Meittinis, DVM, Dan Dreyfuss, DVM, and Rachael Beard, DVM, were the support team on the backside, but the decision lay with the Jacksons.

"Credit and thank yous go to the Jacksons," stated Palmer emphatically. "They were motivated by the right reasons.

"These are class people, and they cared about the horse," he stated. "That's all they cared about. The only reason they wanted to save this horse was because they could. They didn't care if he made it to the breeding shed or not."

Palmer paused to gather himself, then added, "There was a purity about that that transcends racing and transcends the common points of discussion. That's undiminished by what happened."

Palmer made the calls and arrangements to have the horse taken from his stall at Pimlico to New Bolton Center, some 70 miles away.

"The way everybody pulled together was inspiring," recalled Palmer. "There was a litany of people who each had some small part in a larger process. It was a very complicated thing."

"We had to borrow the track ambulance to drive to New Bolton," he said. "There was never a question that we could. There were tens of thousands of people and no way to get out (from the track). So we asked security to help. The Baltimore police escorted us to the highway where we were met by the Maryland State Police, then at the Pennsylvania border, the Pennsylvania state police met us and escorted us to New Bolton."

Why New Bolton? "When I was talking to Jacksons, there was no question about where to go," Palmer stated. "It was the perfect place to do this. The reason I selected Dean (Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, surgeon for Barbaro) is that he's the most experienced surgeon in the country with complicated P1 fractures; better than anyone I knew. I couldn't think of anyone else with that type of experience.

"There was no, 'Let's see what we'll do now," recalled Palmer. "We made decisions in minutes."

"It's a miracle that he made it as far as he did," said Palmer, the respected surgeon.

"He was a warrior right from the start; there was a real honesty about the process that was meaningful," added the horseman in him.

"What he's done for racing...he was an ambassador for racing, for veterinary medicine, and he crossed the lines for us as horsemen and people all over the world who cared for that horse," he continued.

"Now in these times it's hard to think about it," said a subdued Palmer. "I'm overcome with emotion. We all are. Over time it will be more clear about value he brought to racing."

Palmer wanted everyone to realize that this whole process was not some effort to avoid the inevitable; it was an effort to do the right thing for the horse.

"Every advantage medicine could offer was given to that horse," stated Palmer. "That's a tribute to the Jacksons. A lot of people would have taken the easy way out. "I don't want horse to suffer, give me the $20 million.' They aren't that way.

"I think over time history will judge that this was the right thing to do," he said. "The tragedy is that it didn't work out. I was pretty confident for a while and feeling pretty good it would work out."

After a long pause, Palmer looked off into the distance, pain and sorrow reflected on his face: "In my heart I thought he could make it, and it was worth the effort. Not tilting at windmills. Everybody went in with their eyes open, but we thought it could work. Every day was like a gift."

Thank you, Barbaro.

Dear Hennegan Brothers,

you are the BEST! you're going to have huge sales when your video comes out. can we pre-order?

HINT HINT ALEX

I'm not sure what Alex's plans are regarding the site, but maybe at the appropriate time, he could do some kind of "All in the Barbaro Family" format where FOBs could continue to remember Barbaro and work for the important issues, stay in touch with racing news, and keep enjoying reading about Alex's own exploits. (Heck, maybe we can even adopt Barbaro's baby brothers.)

I mean, look at the wonderful treat we just received from the Hennegan brothers, through Alex.

I'd like to see us all stay together with Alex as our supreme leader. I sure don't know how we would have gotten through all this without him. And that's the truth.

Joe, Ray and the rest of you manly men in here:

(Daryl, Steve, Mike C. David Letell and the rest I have not mentioned by name)
You guys are so very welcome here, and I so welcome the fact that you open your heart and your mind and your soul to the FOBs. If showing emotion is not manly, than I daresay WHAT IS? BEing a nasty smelly beastie? BEing a rotten animal mistreating coward? I think NOT.

A REAL man wears his heart on his sleeve and lets his eyes show how he feels. If he cries, and his shed tears run over-He is the manliest sorta man in the universe! In MY eyes a man IS no MAN unless he cries. So pass the vodka or alcoholic beverage of your choice and lets have at it!

(Yes, this is really me, Dora! I am in a rare mood tonight. You genuine manly men have given me some really heartfelt tears of my own tonight, and quite a good laugh(about the jagermeister) Thanks, I needed THAT!- Ray-I think...

I hope the coping shall get better by tomorrow. My eyes sting as if millions of ants are invading my eyelids. Prayers for all creatures great and small.
I am so deeply grateful to you, one and all.
You make me feel as if we are going to keep up this HOUSE that our BARBARO built. :( === :0)

###

Dora, you gave me a rare laugh--nasty smelly beastie...too funny.

The House that Barbaro Built--I like that analogy.

My eyes are feeling the same way and even though we are cosmetologists girl there is no helping this.

ON that note I will say goodnight all, time for another good cry in my pillow, blessings to everyone and

I LOVE YOU BARBARO

Sweet dreams to you, dearest Barbaro, may the stars twinkle around you and the wind whip your mane as you fly across the night sky. We mere mortals will always be in awe of you.

###

The Barbaro Effect is at work -- did anyone see Boston Legal tonight? In a "summation" before the judge, Candice Bergen spoke about human cruelties to animals, including horses racing at 2 years of age and the inhumane slaughter they face when their racing careers wane. Not an "in depth" discussion of the issues, but even the mention may spark someone's interest to get involved.
Prayers & healing for all who are Missing Barbaro tonight.

I knew last week that I would be at my son's college today, about 40 minutes from NBC, and that I would make a special trip to leave apples, carrots and mints for Bobby and the other horses at NBC. The unfortunate turn events changed all that.

Still tearful today, the thought of Barbaro never left me, not even for a moment. I lost my little dog last May and Barbaro's passing was just as painful.

It has been helpful to read comments on this site and to be part of the FOB. We are so lucky to have had him in our lives, even for a short time. We will never forget!

Susan K.

Susan,
Thank you for the welcome. I do feel welcomed.
Now get some sleep, I think we all need a good night, doubt it will come, but we have to rest so we can be fresh and ready to fight OUR fight for Barbaro.
Goodnight all & thank you for being here.
Verna

John and Brad - Thank you ...... enjoyed the outtakes ...... the film will be a winner, for sure.

Laurie H ... Thank you soooo much for your continued "tuck-ins" ...... aside from missing my Beloved Barbaro sooo much .... I would have missed your "g'nite messages." They truly speak to my soul. BRAVO.

Ryan - it is really good to hear from you again.

Harriett - Thank you also .....

and ..... Barbaro's messages from hevven sure do help. There are many nurturers on our TW site.
I am grateful, now more than ever.

Sweet dreams all ! Especially you, Barbaro !

Sherry - Arizona

Excuse me I am a bit tipsy. Watched Larry King with my beer and Jagermeister. Then I replayed the part with the Jacksons and the doc for my wife, she can't watch any pictures or video of Barbaro. My wife is doing a little better. I have to admit the videos of Barbaro made me cry. I am glad you folks exist.My wife has been reading the 'are you okay topic' on the board and it seems to be helping. Dora thanks for your words. I am smelly but still love animals and cry. God bless you. Ray.

BARBARO- I know you are not here on earth anymore Big Ole Boy, but I feel like I just have to say goodnight and goodbye as usual.It just so happens that I have to pass by lots of pastures with lots of pretty horses every day going to Louie's house. I saw a really pretty one today that had on the prettiest turnout blanket on. He was laying down, sleeping in the only sunny spot in the paddock. It was so sweet it made me cry. I saw the Appaloosa that got out before, he was in a round pen looking real fierce and royally pissed to be "incarcerated". I wanted so bad to let him out, but you know he does not belong to me, and last time-he did ALOT of damage when he escaped on his own!!

Anyway, Bobby dear, sleep your perfect sleep. Your straight perfect legs are so beautiful now. Your tail even looks like it used to! My goodness, you are much more handsome than I thought a horse could ever be!I bid you good evening, young fellow. I wish I could hear the serenade of your nickering, or whinnying, or just that sweet huffing blowing sound you horses make. I miss you. I love you. You will be missed.

laughing and crying..... I'm not even Irish ( I am German born and bred ) But I am toasting and having my own wake for Bobby - I could not do this last night as I was such a mess - I know he would want everybody to still laugh and find joy in life.....

Please, please, PLEASE keep on borrowing Big Red's blackberry to send us messages from hevvinn....

I must play The Chieftans CD - album of "Ballad Of The Irish Horse"

It is so beautiful - the Irish love their horses.

Yes! Ilove it. I saw... "KEEP OUR HORSES IN THE STABLE AND NOT ON THE TABLE" here.
Now another one, a name for our home, "THE HOUSE THAT BARBARO BUILT"
I love it.
Verna

Verna,

Thank you for your response, keep me posted anything that I can do - kerrs1@verizon.net

Good night.

Going to watch re-run of Larry King

Susan

Ray,
I am with your wife- I cannot hardly stand to watch the videos either. I feel almost compelled to do so, though. On Larry King though, the banners were in the way throughout! You could barely see anything.I desperately wanted to see him, but was scared to cry anymore as well. Ah hell, here I go again. Tell your wife she is a lucky grand gal to have you.

My boyfriend at least was sad for me, he said he was glad I already knew yesterday--He did not want to be the one to tell me. He meant that in a really sweet way. He is very sensitive too,HE CRIES, but he will not admit such! Take care of your sweet wife and try to be happy that our Big Ole Boy ain't in no more pain. That is how I am going to have to justify this nightmare tragedy. I am trying not to cry anymore-dangit! You!

I don't know why I'm still up, except that when I need comfort, I come here.

I saw Larry King tonight. How amazing the Jacksons are to carry on so bravely, and Dr. R, too. That poor man needs a vacation. He has been so strong for so long.

I think of the Jacksons' grandchildren, who spent time petting our sweet boy in his stall when he was peacefully sleeping. They must be just devastated. I want to reach out and embrace everyone at NBC who is suffering so much, too. All those wonderful times Rachel and Alie would report from NBC that "spirits were high." When I see the images of Barbaro walking in the beautiful sunshine eating his grass, it just breaks my heart in two.

The Ladies Home Journal article about Barbaro is titled "The Horse That Love Saved." Perhaps an email to them is appropriate telling them that even if he wasn't "saved," he saved us, his fans. Kind of like that twist at the end of Seabiscuit where they say, "everyone thinks we fixed him, but he really fixed us."

For weeks now, I've had the copy of the UPenn Bellwether magazine on the kitchen table and each morning I would light a candle next to it and pray 3 times for Barbaro's left hind hoof to grow, hoof grow. This morning I just didn't know what to do. I lit the candle but I can't bring myself to put the magazine away. It's such a beautiful picture of such happier times with Dr. R.

Just the other day I bought a Valentine's card to send to Barbaro, and last week I finally sent a basket of treats to him as OUR Horse of the Year. I now realize it was one of the final baskets he had. I am so grateful I had that chance.

Today I remembered something very odd. In the bathroom I have two ceramic angels on the wall. One morning over the weekend, I don't remember which day, one of the angels suddenly turned itself upside down. I am very tuned into spiritual happenings--I wrote yesterday about seeing the flock of robins--and I dreaded without knowing why, what that meant. I remember checking the time. It was around 10:30 a.m. That's when Barbaro was put down on Monday morning. This gives me chills.

####

Ryan

So good to see you here again. You fixed the Salvation flyer I did WAY back, remember?

###

Hennegan Brothers

The video was breaking up for me but what I saw, I loved. I wish you all the best with it. It will be a winner.

###

Lily

Please stick with us. We're great people here, and we're not going away. Alex, our webdaddy, is wonderful to us.

####

Laurie H.

My mom and I used to sing "Catch A Falling Star" in harmony when we were riding in the car. Don't ask me why. Guess I'm dating myself but I remember Perry Como singing that on TV. You really made me cry, but I needed that. I think I am crying for every loss I ever had, all wrapped up in one beautiful horse.

Don't forget everyone, Barbaro and NBC already have stars in the sky, thanks to Grandma Bea. The stars are in the constellation Hercules, which is prominent in the summer. Hercules is known for his strength.

I don't know why I'm still here. Larry King is coming on again, I guess I will watch again.

Goodnight, sweet spirit in the sky. I saw the ring around the moon last night, too. I just can't believe you are gone from my sight.

Forgive me for rambling, I just don't know what else to do.

Barbaro,

The Angels are tucking you in tonight.

Thank you for your tenacity, will, and spirit. You've taught us several great lessons and forged lasting frienships. You're one in a Gazillion!

Much love to you and all of your "family" - and love to all the Barbaromaniacs!! Big B. is home and truly happy now.

-Julie Z. (in Houston)

Barbaro is not going to shine for just a few more times. Our Big Boss Top Horse will shine forever in the hearts of each of us and all the people who loved him and cared so much for him and about him! He will shine in the fact that the treatments used to help him live for almost nine more months will help all horses in the future who get injuries and complications as bad as any horse can get.

No, Barbarowon't shine for just a short time more, Big Boss will shine forever, because he never gave up, and nobody ever gave up on him! Barbaro was in every sense of the word a true HERO!

Oh Beautiful Brave Barbaro, you will shine forever, and we will all miss you - forever!

Warmest Regards from Laura S. in Snohomish, WA!

My 6'7" mountain of a husband cried when I called him yesterday with the sad news. I can't watch any videos today but I certainly will soon. I want to watch and be happy and not cry because that is what "Himself" would want.

Hello Barbaro Nation!
What would I do without all of you? Everyone here is amazing. I don't post a lot... just a couple times a week. But I do read the posts here daily... a few times a day... or more. I think of each of you as my family. I should have bought stock in Kleenex. Had I, I would be able to develop a research lab for a cure to laminitis with the Kleenex stock earnings.

What's more amazing is Barbaro is still winning! He's winning hearts over and over.

In response to the "error" messages some of you mentioned earlier. I think its Bobby and Secretariat at play.... they might be getting a little rough and its shaking up the system. I'm sure Bobby is just so excited that he can finally romp around and play horse games that he got a little carried away. Keep it up Big Boss.

Keep the candles going for Big B, Pine and Fog.

Thanks everyone for all the sharing. It helps to mend the sad heart.

Did anyone see the tribute to Barbaro on ESPN last evening? They did a nice job.

Bobby- I love you.

Candy in MN

Jane, Perry Como is from 20 miles south of Pittsburgh ( in Canonsburg, Pa. ) We love him here !

I saw 'Dreamer' (2005) a while ago - a great movie that hits close to home, and was inspired by a true story about a mare racehorse that got injured yet ran in a race - she and Barbaro I'm sure are together right now...

I'm headin to bed but wanted to leave you, and our beloved Barbaro, with this..

You are a great champion. When you ran the ground shook. The sky opened and mere mortals parted. Parted the way to victory. Where you will meet me in the winner's circle. Where I will lay a blanket of flowers on your back.

Barbaro, you will surely, be missed..but never, ever, forgotten.

Barbaro, you taught us all to believe in something - to fight for something. Because of you so much good can and will come from it - from what you taught us and in the ways you touched each of our lives so deeply.

To quote Dakota Fanning in Dreamer one more time -(modified slightly to apply to Barbaro)

He wasn't just some race horse. He was *our* horse.

Believe in miracles. Believe in Barbaro. (I still am, and always will)

Ryan

THIS IS THE HOUSE THAT BARBARO BUILT.

Alex, Eliza, Tim,& Jen brought us the foundation to build this house.
The Jackson's gave us the brick, the strongest ever made-BARBARO.
Eduardo cleaned the brick.
Mr. Matz & Peter shaped the brick.
Mr. Prado saved the brick from completely breaking when it fell.
Dr. Richardson & Dr. Anderson repaired the brick.
The brick WAS HELD together and new mortar was added-FOBs.
A very strong house was built.

WE ARE THE HOUSE THAT BARBARO BUILT
WE SHALL NOT FALL DOWN, WITH ALL THE
SUPPORT AT THE VERY CORE.
The FOUNDATION is still STRONG and WE are STILL HERE.
WE SHALL NOT BE TORN APART.

FOB'S THANKS FOR THE CLASSY COMPANY TONIGHT

You all did my heart good....ESP DORA J CROW !!
When you were away for a time this board lost some sparkle...GLAD YOU'RE BACK !!!! It's not home without you.....

CHAMP I know that the Lord doesn't play favourites but I think he might be tempted to make an exception for the first and only time....YOU are the brightest star in the heavens Sweet Boy none other can compare !!!!!Horsy hugs and spearmint dreams to you Horse of Forevermore...I LOVE YOU !!

THANK YOU LORD for the miracle of my special time with Barbaro...
THANK YOU for Barbaros right and perfect healing
THANK YOU for the love and compassion of the FOB'S
THANK YOU for being LORD of ALL !!!!!
BLESS ALL THOSE IN NEED TONIGHT...AMEN

GOODNIGHT SWEET BARBARO NATION...
HE IS NOT GONE...HE'S JUST AWAY....

Good night, Sweet Prince,

Your miracles have just begun. We are your hands and voices.

Believe in Barbaro
Believe in Miracles

Marydel in Colorado

Jane,
I just read what you said. I had chill bumps all over. It's strange that you mentioned the birds. I have always heard if one gets in your house it means death is comming. Monday morning I opened the door to our sceened in porch to let the kids out for school and a bird flew in. I don't like to think things like that are true, but what else could it have meant. When I left today, it flew back out. I have had an..uh..I guess better day today, almost as the bird left, so did some of the burdin and I was just slightly back on track.
You are right. In the end Barbaro saved us.
Verna

Barbaro...I was still so sad today..missing you.
I had a dream last nite that you galloped across a beautiful field to say "hello" to some mares across
the fence. I woke up startled. I realized that God
was just letting me know that you are doing just
fine in Heaven flirting with all the cute mares. Now
you can run free and strong again with the winds of
heaven breezing through your mane.
Sleep tight my boy...with the twinkle of the heavenly stars enveloping you and keeping you safe.
God bless you....i will always miss my Gallant Man.
I bet you and Foggy are best buds now..give him a horsey hug for me too!

Here south of Annapolis MD, the winds are whipping around the house at 25+ mph -- the wind chimes are making quite a racket! I believe that Barbaro, Secretariat, Gallant Secret, Pine Island, St Liam & Lost in the Fog (and probably many more!) must be having some sort of wild race across the night sky -- the wind cannot keep up, but it is sure trying! I swear I saw that little white spot on the left hind heel of The Big Bay One just fly by my window!

This link at the end of this message has 2 videos: one is the report by Jeannine Edwards about Barbaro being put down, and the other is about his life -- "Barbaro Loses Struggle for Survival." The video shows some footage of the Preakness (beware) but it has lots of shots of Barbaro being the great colt he was --- the one that cracked me up the most is him bucking around in his little grazing pen at Fair Hill. He's also shown acting up when he's being saddled -- what a character!
It's a really nice video that reminds you of his spirit and why he attracted a nation.

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/columns/story?columnist=cronley_jay&id=2747541

LAURA S in Snowhomish Washington

No offense made....I KNOW OUR BOY WILL and DOES OUTSHINE THEM ALL FOREVERMORE....

The media though I'm afraid tend to have a very short attention span and it is anybodys guess at anytime what they will choose to do and when....

I'M ON BARBARO'S SIDE....HE RULES FOREVER IN MY BOOKS....

It seems to be quieting down on the messages tonight. I hope it's because we are all so very, very tired, and for now our tears have stopped. I hope to see us all here, fresh, in whatever form, however often, carrying on, in Barbaro's honor, for however long. I really do. Peace ~

Maribel-
But Ah, you are the spicy one my dear! I miss all of you when I am at the boyfriend's house. He has no computer, so therefore I am lost when at his trailer in the country! He does not even have long distance on his phone! It is like living in the archaic dark ages of the knights and the round table, LOL!!! But without a King or a King's fortune!! HA!!

Goodnite to my new family.
I will check in tomorrow, OH WOW, I mean later today.
Goodnite all...
Verna

My Beautiful, Magnificent Barbaro - I can't go to bed without saying Goodnight to you, my Special Prince. You are no longer here with us on earth, but I know you can feel us just as well in Heaven. We don't know why you were taken from us much too soon - but you now do. I know you are so happy in your "new life" there. You can run free, and run like you used to. I can hear you saying, "If you could only see me now!" That brings me comfort. I will love you forever and ever - until we all see you again. And I know we will. Goodnight, Valiant One and rest gently tonight, my Sweet Angel. You will be in my heart forever. MISS YOU SO.

Goodnight, we have two Verna--that is too cool. A Verna1 and a Verna9060 Are ya'll the same gal? Anyway sleep well all my pretties. After all Tommorrow is another day.....DANG

Jay Leno just made a tasteless joke about Barbaro.

He was Booed.

Someone else I will no longer be watching.

Dear Alex, FOB, Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Richardson, and Staff,

I couldn't stop talking about Barbaro to my students today. I can agree with all the aforementioned comments about having to turn away every time I saw an article on Barbaro to avoid the grief.

I am so thankful that this web site was "still open" tonight; I have checked it faithfully for 8-9 months...I can't imagine what I will do without it.

God Bless you, Barbaro. YOU ARE FREE OF EARTHLY PAIN, AND HAVE BECOME OUR ANGEL.

I guess I am dating myself on this one, too - Barbaro was really our "Johnny Angel"! Also, it seemed to give me comfort to download and play the Ronettes tune "Baby I Love You" baby I love only you while I was looking at the pictures of Barbaro in all the sports sections of today's newspapers. And I do remember Perry Como's music. "Magic Moments" comes to mind, as it was always a favorite tune for me!

Barbaro will always be our FOREVER Horse! He is up there with Secretariat and Seattle Slew, both great horses in their own right!

Run Barbaro Run!

Warmest Regards from Laura S. in Snohomish, WA, where the daytime temps are near 50, although it's still cold at night, high 20s to low 30s!

I am grateful this website is still up and running. I hope that the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson and all of the New Bolton staff will hopefully be given this honest feedback and appraisal on what a great efforts they made to save this magnificient and very special animal.

Tonight I read some of the feedback from some New York Times readers---my goodness what angry, hateful humans exist out there. Please direct the Jacksons and the veterinarians away from that column (the ONLY one I have seen of it's kind). Every day I care for human patients in healthcare and so many of us followed your surgical efforts with respect, anticipation and hope that the outcome would be positive. You did your best, more than anyone could ask. To those of us not familiar with horses or racing, Barbaro made the world stop to watch. Truly special creatures come so seldom on this earth.

We applaud your efforts, congratulate the staff,
thank the owners and had sorrow with you after the euthanasia. My heart is still heavy and Barbaro was in my thoughts today. My support and applause to the Veterinary Community at New Bolton. The world is a better place with staff like all of you in it. Thank you for trying to save Barbaro.

I wanted to say thank you to everybody who has posted, reading the sentiments has been healing for me and after yesterday, it is much needed.

Goodnight all, I'll be checking in tomorrow, hope to see you here.

He may be gone, but I still believe in Barbaro.

You guys:

You know Barbaro is more with us now than he was when he was on this planet. He is with us and all around us. I believe this. When he was here, he was 3000 miles away. He is now in my house and with me where-ever I go. I am closer to him now. I know this sounds weird but it is so true. I feel the same way about my mom that died in 1999. I talk to her everyday. She is closer to me now than she was when she was on the planet...... Strange but true....... I truly believe that our Beautiful Barbaro is with all of us now..... He is checking in on all of us because now he is in a place where he can do that. Before, he could not. Does this make sense??????

I love you my big buddy and lots of hugs and kisses before I go to bed.... I am sooooooooooooo sorry that you were forced to run that race. I know in my heart that you really and truly didn't want to..... I hope that humans realize in time that the reason you had that second start was because you were trying to tell us that you were hurt and couldn't run....... I am glad that I figured it out...... It is sad that you had to die for this to come to light but it is so clear to me now. I was with race horses all day today and jockeys....... You tried my buddy and I love you for that. Had you been my horse, I would have pulled you off the track because I saw the pain in your eyes when they put you back in that gate.......Soon I think that the world will find out about this and many horses will be saved because of this. It is sad that it took your death to bring this out but it will come out in the up-coming weeks. Actually it already did in a way tonight on Larry King.............

I love you always have a good time and I'm off to la la land.......... I'll see you in my dreams my buddy....... I know that you are just fine..... Tell Slew and Secretariat and Seabiscuit and all the rest hi for me OK?????? Talk to you either here in my house or somewhere.......... Yeah big buddy.... I know and I am wise to this....... I just hope that other humans figure this out before too many more beautiful horses lose their lives on Earth because they tried to tell humans what was going on and no-one listened.....

All of you.... Please when you watch the Preakness next time... Look at Barbaro going BACK into that gate...... He was nursing that foot......... He should have NEVER ran that race but no-one would listen to him..........

I love you all.....

Yesterday has been and gone
Tomorrow will I find the sun, or will it rain?
Everybody's having fun
Except me, I'm the lonely one
I live in shame

I say goodbye to romance (yeah)
Goodbye to friends
I tell you
Goodbye to all the past
I guess that we'll meet, we'll meet in the end

I've been the king, I've been the clown
Now broken wings can't hold me down, I'm free again
The jester with the broken crown
It won't be me this time around, to love in vain

I say goodbye to romance (yeah)
Goodbye to friends
I tell you
Goodbye to all the past
I guess that we'll meet, we'll meet in the end

And I feel the time is right
Although I know that you just might say to me
"What you gonna do?"
"What you gonna do?"
But I have to take this chance
Goodbye to friends and to romance
And to all of you
And to all of you
Come'on now!

I say goodbye to romance (yeah)
Goodbye to friends
I tell you
Goodbye to all the past
I guess that we'll meet, we'll meet in the end

And the weather's looking fine
And I think the sun will shine again
And I feel I've cleared my mind
All the past is left behind again

I say goodbye to romance (yeah)
Goodbye to friends
I tell you
Goodbye to all the past
I guess that we'll meet, we'll meet in the end

By Ozzy Osbourne......

With All MY LOVE to you Barbaro............. Cya soon..........

Good evening, everyone -

You are all so splendid. There are a bunch of new posters, and I apologize for not remembering the names, but welcome to each and every one of you. Come in, and let the feelings flow. And Lily, please don't be worried that we won't be here. We will.

Dora J. Crow - You make me laugh!

Marilyn in CA - Where are you in California? I'm near Monterey.

You all give voice to what I feel, and I am constantly amazed at the number of times I read something, and say, with passion, "Yes! That's exactly right!"

Laurie H. - Thank you, thank you, thank you.

All the guys - How heartening you are!

And for the several who, like myself, are without conventional faith, I offer this. Today I forwarded the Tagore quote Marilyn posted last night to a friend, who is also not a member of an organized religion, and not gifted with faith. She immediately responded, "So Barbaro has returned to his essence."

Which about seems to sum it up. If there is a great horse oversoul, it is immensely richer and more colorful tonight. And, since matter is neither created nor destroyed, Barbaro's matter is still around us.

Being Irish, (like half the board, it appears),
I will copy chris byers, and refer to that wonderful beastie as Himself. Because, for our family, that is who he is.

With love, and comfort to all in need, four-legged and two-legged,

- Jean

...Oh, shoot. I knew I forgot something.

"It is a lovely thing to live with courage, and die leaving an everlasting fame."

- Alexander of Macedon

(Who, as some may recall, had a horse of whom he took VERY good care.)

I think it applies to Himself.

- Jean

Nina,

You have expressed a feeling I have had all night, and voiced to myself several times, saying I still needed to say goodnight to Barbaro, because he is still here, more than ever!

You said, "You know Barbaro is more with us now than he was when he was on this planet. He is with us and all around us. I believe this. When he was here, he was 3000 miles away. He is now in my house and with me where-ever I go. I am closer to him now. I know this sounds weird but it is so true. I feel the same way about my mom that died in 1999. I talk to her everyday. She is closer to me now than she was when she was on the planet...... Strange but true....... I truly believe that our Beautiful Barbaro is with all of us now..... He is checking in on all of us because now he is in a place where he can do that. Before, he could not. Does this make sense??????"

I echo your sentiments, exactly. I feel the same way about my husband, who has been gone several years...

The "Peta lady" was right about a lot of things, so sorry some of you made fun of her; the most important being that thoroughbreds shouldn't start to be raced until they are older and their bones stronger, it causes too many fatal leg injuries. Sadly, we know all too well about that now. Goodnight my angel Barbaro and "flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

Peggy in AZ

gggooooddd moRning

My nnName is Ellie. I was born the same year as Barbaro - exactly a month later. I came here 3 yeerrs ago. I had an injury and laminitis too..

Heeerrreez the thing..oh man this new guy...bArbaro...oohh man is he a cuttiiee. You should see him run -oh man- he just smoked past some of the grown ups. Aneeway I am a Hanoverian warmblood. Im the same color as him and I have a funky star that looks a little like a clover on my head. I have 4 white socks. I wuz a champion before I got hurt - now I dance so preettee. So duz anybudy think they can get me an introductionn.. If weee go out - I like the red candies,he can have the green.

oh heheheh I better gooo this is Ruffianz razer - I cant outrun heerr,

oh yeah...things heeere are just great. everybody luvs the new guy. especially the fillies Thanx for yer help

Still so sad, and tears come easily. But happy, too, to think of Barbaro healthy and running free.

Thanks to Harriette for her lovely story. It helped.

I'm looking forward to the film.

Thanks to Alex for providing this forum. Every bit of information was precious.

My heartfelt sympathies to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, Dr. R and to all who worked directly or indirectly with Barbaro. Your efforts were magnificient. I really thought you were going to pull it off.

Thanks to all FOBs. It's nice to know I'm not alone.

And thank you, too, to Barbaro. You were a light in a troubled world.

I was peeking in at Del Mar unrelated to Barbaro and noticed they had an "In Memoriam" page. OMG, so many loving notes from people all around the country.

And then I realized that there are countless sites (news sites, horse racing sites, blogs, you name it) with person after person praising our hero. There's simply no telling how many people mourn his loss--but I know it's more than anyone estimates.

Barbaro forever.

I was thinking maybe Barbaro would be laid to rest at New Bolten. Also that his stall in ICU would remain empty as a memorial to Barbaro. I surely know how the Gretchen's feel, we had to have our 19 year old horse Shotzie euthanized this past OCT 23 after he broke his leg. I know Barbaro is running with our Shotzie!!!!

Good night, sweet Barbaro.

I am up way later than I should, reading and watching videos of the great Barbaro. I love you, o noble Barbaro. I miss you and pray that you are running free with your feet flying off the ground the way they are in the Kentucky Derby footage. I will say a prayer for you and think of your great heart and big Spirit every night for the rest of my life. You have touched my soul and millions of others. It is not the amount of time we spend here on earth that counts, it is how many hearts we touch and awaken.

I send all my love to all the FOB's that I have had the honor of knowing by reading your posts and I send healing and peace to The Jacksons, Dr Dean, Edgar Prado, Michael Matz and the countless others at NBC who fought the good fight with our dear, sweet prince of horses: dear, dear Barbaro

Thank you Alex for your beautiful descriptions. I have thoroughly enjoyed your reporting on Barbaro. Please keep reporting on your work day going forward. Best regards, Donna-Kay

BARBARO--your FOB's are just awesome!!
Thanks to everyone for wonderful comments,clips from the May movie,Hariettes' beautiful 'back story',Lauries' tearful tuck-in.

Great to see Larry King,God bless and comfort the Jacksons and Dr Dean,Mr Matz,Brette,Edgar,NBC,Alex,Tim and Fair Hill.

Watching videos,saving pictures,articles,the outpouring for YOU BARBARO is just unbelievably wonderful ....I hope in some way you can see and know and feel ALL THE LOVE that is 'going up to you' tonight!

Of course,honey as Laurie calls you,we are heartbroken,crying and so very sad.

LOVE TO BARBARO
love to all,
linda a oregon

Nice article on Dr. R in the Delaware paper also has a statement from Congressman Mike Castle.(delawareonline.com)

WITH BARBARO GONE, NEW BOLTON FEELS A VOID

http://delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070129/SPORTS/70129034

an excerpt:

Congressman Mike Castle, R-Del., in a statement for the Congressional Record today, said, “This magnificent racehorse connected with so many Americans because of his drive and determination. A Rocky Balboa figure, Barbaro continued to fight even when the odds were strongly stacked against him. ... What followed the injury was an outpouring of support not frequently seen in our world today. Letters, donations and gifts came in from all over the world, all because of what this wonderful horse embodied. ... While a racing champion many times over, Barbaro's greatest talent was bringing people together and inspiring them."

Rest in Peace, Barbaro...

Good morning Alex and everyone.
Here I am at this site first thing in the morning, as has been my custom for the past eight months. Even though I know there will be no ACNs to read about, it is still a comfort to read your comments, tributes, and prayers. Hopefully with time, the pain will be less and we can look back on these last few months with fond memories.
Alex, I have treasured all of your updates on our beloved Barbaro, and I hope to continue to enjoy reading about your work at Fair Hill, the escapades of Hawty Creek, and all of the racing news. Today I plan to make my $29 donation, the first step in moving forward. I hope today is a brighter day for everyone.

Good morning, Alex and FOB's,

I cannot stop my daily rituals of checking in here despite knowing I will never see ACN ever again. What a treat this morning to see that short clip of our boy happy and romping in the sun! Something good to look forward to in the coming days. Thank you, Alex.

I'm so thankful for all of you.

BARBARO FOREVER

Morning Alex,
Thank you for continuing your updates on our beloved Barbaro and the romping in the round pen was a great way to start the day.

I too will continue to enjoy your updates at Fair Hill.

As Barbaro's Legacy continues to finish the unfinished work that was started.

###

TO JOHN & BRAD HENNEGAN:

Thank you very much for putting up these clips of Barbaro. It is so thoughtful of you to make them available and letting us know about them. It is an absolute joy to see them. Just a few moments in Barbaro's life..

Wishing you much success with the film, it is a very interesting idea that many people should like. Best regards always..

I'm trying to get through all the posts - so hard to keep up without stopping to wipe the tears away.

Harriette Brillianhawk and Susan in Saratoga - so beautiful! Thank you!

It's too hard to thank individuals because all the posts are so inspiring. But please know that I am reading every one.

When I arrived home from work yesterday there was a beautiful bouquet of flowers from my children. The card read "We carry your heart with us - we carry it in our hearts". Tears again!

Shortly after, Rachel from KF called about the baskets I had ordered on Monday before the news. We shared a few tears.

How many more tears can there be! I so appreciate knowing that I'm not alone in my feelings for Barbaro. Thank you all.

PLEASE INCLUDE ME IN ANY PLANS FOR A MEMORIAL TO BARBARO. I can't post on the forum, but I know Lynda P, Rosemary, and Nancy have my email address.

I believe he runs with angels - over the beautiful moon shining in my window.

Good morning everyone - that includes you up there, Big Bay One!

I attended the funeral yesterday for the husband of a fellow worker. I think I finally found some peace from the turmoil of my grief sitting in that church. I feel better able to handle the emotions. I still feel the pain but it hurts just the tiniest bit less than yesterday.

My $29 check goes in the mail today and that has been entered into my budget as a monthly expense.

i emailed the people at ABC News yesterday to thank them for making Barbaro the lead story on their evening news on Monday. I don't know about NBC (the network!) but at CBS it was business as usual with the war in Iraq etc. I believe in sending kudos when I witness something I think warrants them and to me, this showed real courage. I'm certain they recieved many more messages expressing outrage.

I am finally able to devote a day to some projects that have been on the back burner of my life for too long. Last night I contacted a woman about a recently formed coalition of horse resuces here in Maine and I will attend their next meeting to find out where my place is in their organization. And I will be contacting my legislators today about Barbaro's Horse Protection Act as I'm already calling it. But first I will watch Dr. Richardson on CBS This Morning. My heart goes out to him.

Hoping we all can find some solace - look for it, it will be there, just like Barbaro.

Please excuse the longest post of my life.

Peace my friends.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

The video is beautiful! I love Barbaro so much and it is wonderful to see what a sweet horse he was. He was so special, always looking at people, so curious and full of life. I am still grieving.

I am definitley up for some type of get together.

Believe in Barbaro!

Oh Laurie H -

That was so beautiful, you MUST do a compilation of your "tuck -ins". They would mean so much to all of us!

Good morning Alex and FsOB and good morning Barbaro in your new home.

I appreciate all the beautiful posts, comments, tributes and ideas by the many members of the Barbaro family.

I am still unable to read or see anything Barbaro without tears. I don't know how long this will last as it hasn't gotten any easier yet.
I know several people have mentioned looking for ACN as we have in the past. One of the FsOB last night mentioned that for Barbaro now - every night is ACN. How true!

Marg in Maine - my morning friend - I hope you don't mind but I'd like to use your sign off - it is so appropriate now. If not agreeable, please tell me and I won't use it again

Janice
Proud fan of Barbaro forever

Thi is so funny, But I had thought about a Barbaro library..here is what is out in the news..maybe a museum. I love the idea!

Barbaro’s resting place might form the basis of a regional racing museum in Pennsylvania, Gretchen Jackson said Tuesday night.

”My son-in-law, I think, had this idea that we really ought to get some kind of museum for the horses who have run out of this area,” she told The Philadelphia Inquirer. ”That sort of sticks in my mind. You’d have to look at that before you decide where Barbaro goes.”

Despite the pain of Monday’s decision, Jackson said, ”There’s a certain amount of relief knowing that horse is in a better place. ... I don’t have any regrets.”

Barbaro’s body was no longer at New Bolton. ”We cremated him,” Jackson said. ”I assume it’s been done.”

Dearest Barbaro and all the FOB's

Good Morning to all,

Just a thought - It would be great to have a yearly tribute to our special boy. A happy occassion like a picnic or something where we can all share what strives have been taken to improve the lives of these wonderful animals.

We have given each other such support during these difficult days.

Susan K.

Am I understanding correctly that Barbaro has been cremated?

Janice

Ohttp://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/sports/horse_racing/16585326.htm

headline is 85 PAGES OF COMMENTS ABOUT BARBARO LEFT ON MIAMI HERALD SITE...

Barbaro inspires idea for a museum
By Mike Jensen
Inquirer Staff Writer

Owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson are not sure about Barbaro's final resting place, but they have an idea they want to pursue.

"My son-in-law, I think, had this idea that we really ought to get some kind of museum for the horses who have run out of this area," Gretchen Jackson said in an interview last night. "That sort of sticks in my mind. You'd have to look at that before you decide where Barbaro goes."

The 2006 Kentucky Derby winner, who had been at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square since suffering catastrophic fractures in May's Preakness Stakes, was euthanized Monday morning.

"We cremated him," Gretchen Jackson said last night. "I assume it's been done."

Monday was not the easiest day emotionally, but a day later, Jackson said: "There's a certain amount of relief knowing that horse is in a better place... . I don't have any regrets."

Like most owners of top thoroughbreds, the Jacksons had insurance, but Gretchen Jackson said she had no idea what it was worth or how Barbaro's time at New Bolton affected it. And they have yet to see a bill from New Bolton. "I cringe," Jackson said, half-joking.

"To discuss money in terms of what was spent in trying to save his life - I don't see how it's even remotely productive," said Barbaro's surgeon, Dean Richardson, aware that there had been a lot of such talk. "It cost a lot of money. But the horse was worth a lot of money, and the owners have a lot of money, and he earned a lot of money. The horse earned $2.3 million. He doesn't owe the Jacksons anything, and they know that."

One horse owner who has had multiple horses in surgery at New Bolton, and was aware of all that went into Barbaro's care, estimated that the cost probably did not go higher than the high six figures. Richardson said estimates "talking about millions of dollars" were "totally ridiculous."

As for another area that has attracted widespread public interest, Richardson and Gretchen Jackson said no sperm was taken from Barbaro before he was euthanized. Under strict rules, thoroughbreds must breed with a mare naturally.

And passing Barbaro's genes on to other horses "wasn't the point," Richardson said. "That wasn't the point of working on Barbaro. It was never to save his value as a breeding stallion. It wasn't necessarily to save his genes. It was to save the horse. We would have done the same thing if he were a gelding."

"We don't even know if he was potent," Gretchen Jackson said.

Yesterday, representatives from the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs in Louisville and the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, both places where horses are buried, said they would be honored to have Barbaro buried there.

Gretchen Jackson said she and her husband had not ruled out any possibilities.

"It would be nice to have a memorial for Barbaro, a statue with access for people who loved him so much," she said. "He's our horse, and we'd like to bring him home" to the Jacksons' farm in West Grove, Chester County, "but this wasn't really his home."

But the idea of burying his ashes at a local horse-racing museum does appeal to her. She does not have any firm idea for a place. However, she talked of the facility's being near the local tracks, and mentioned that maybe Penn would consider donating a few acres at New Bolton if the idea ever got off the ground. Jackson is on the center's board of trustees.

She talked of the long local racing history, going back to Delaware County's Sam Riddle, owner of legends Man O' War and War Admiral.

"One of the first people I'd go to is Pat Chapman," a longtime friend and coowner of 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Smarty Jones, Jackson said. "I intend to talk to her."

She also mentioned the great local interest in Afleet Alex, the 2005 Preakness and Belmont Stakes winner. Jackson said she had not met the five owners from the Cash Is King stable.

"I'm sure everybody from Cash Is King would love to be affiliated with something like that," said Chuck Zacney of Phoenixville, managing partner of the group that owned Afleet Alex. "I think it would be a great idea."

Gretchen Jackson said her family had discussed the idea for a museum for about a month. She credited her son-in-law, Tom Zungailia.

Keith Chamblin, senior vice president of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, told the Louisville Courier-Journal last night that he planned to launch a national fund-raising initiative into laminitis research in Barbaro's memory. Details were being finalized and were to be presented to the Jacksons for their approval, and could be announced as early as today.

Chamblin said NTRA Charities would channel 100 percent of contributions into research. The venture also could include public-service announcements on NTRA-sponsored racing telecasts and dates for organized fund-raisers at tracks and simulcast outlets across the country. Roy Jackson has been apprised of the effort, Chamblin said.

A full brother to Barbaro is a yearling, and his mother, La Ville Rouge, is in foal again to Barbaro's sire, Dynaformer. The Jacksons will own both colts. Asked about names during an appearance on CNN's Larry King Live last night, Roy Jackson explained that Barbaro's name came from a dog in a painting in their house of old family foxhounds. There are six hounds in the painting, he said. Look for more names from that same place on the wall.

"It brought us luck once," Roy Jackson said.

Good morning, Angel Boy. I, too, am still drawn to this site even though I know you are gone. It is so surreal. I miss you terribly, and my heart aches...

I'd like to believe that you're watching over us, secure in the knowledge that you are so loved by so many. I'd also like to think that you're thrilled by all that's being done and planned, from donations to gardens to reunions. We will never forget you.

So, today there are students to teach, bills to be paid, cats to care for, a husband to spend time with. While I try to pick up the pieces, know that you're never far from my mind, and you're ALWAYS in my heart.

Loving you always,
Kelly XOXOXO

#######
yes janice,

I was surprised, but they probably didn't want to remmebr him the way he left MBC..see the artcile above. A museum! Yeah for barbaro!!! I love the idea..the posters, cards, his races, this site, his legacy. It would be a fitting tribute! He needs more than just a statue or a grave marker. he was Barbaro.

Good morning Barbaro (yes, I can't stop) and all you wonderful FOBs. Just can't stop saying "Good morning" to the Big Boss... old habits are hard to break.

I'm still hurting along with all of you. But, it's a comfort to come here and just 'B'...

Good morning FOBs -- from another half Irish! Any confirmaiton on Dr R's TV appearance this AM -- is it CBS morning show?

###
Susan,
I thought it was GMA (ABC), but I could be wrong.

Thanks for the youtube clip, Alex. It was very generous of the Hennegan's to share their film. Great way to remember the Champ!
Laura

Susan in Saratoga
Yes it is on CBS morning show they just said in the next half hour.

I thought I'd awake and some of the pain might be gone, but it's not. I don't know how I am going to get through another day at work because all I feel like doing is crying. I watched the Larry King show and for a moment felt Barbaro was right with us. I love you, Barbaro. I will never get over losing you. I hope I can see you again in a place with there's no pain. I just keep thinking , "What if..." but I know I can't do that. Barbaro, I sure do miss you so much!!!! I love you!

DR R on CBS NOW!

A few weeks ago, Vic Zast was blasted for writing an article on Barbaro. He simply chose to write about the other 50% Dr. Richardson always referred to that none of us wanted to think about. If you read the article, he was very compassionate to what The Jacksons and Dr. Richardson were doing for Barbaro.

He has a new article about Barbaro's impact and legacy that is one of the best I've seen the past two days.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16876039/

vicki

Hiys, FsOB! I tried to post last PM just before Larry King Live and got a message that the site had exceeded its bandwidth. Thank you for your comforting words, especially Martita, Cheryl Jones, Laurie H., & Harriette Brillianthawk. I sure wish that your writings to Barbaro could be published in a book to raise $ for laminitis research. I'd surely buy a copy. To Lou Ann: Thank you for your lovely e-mails yesterday. I hope that we can continue to correspond for a long time. Alex, if any FOB wants my e-mail address, you have my permission to give it to her/him. Peace to every citizen of The Barbaro Nation RMH.

Good Morning Alex and FOB's.

I think today is the worst for me but I do find comfort on this website.

I have to get ready for work but will check in often today.

Thank you Alex for the clip of Barbaro.

We Love You So Barbaro

Just watched Dr. R on CBS. His grief just made me start crying again.

Okay I've got to go to work now. Another day of swollen eyes.

Just saw Dr. R. on CBS with Debbye Turner. I thought it was so compassionate and you could tell how much Dr. R. loved Barbaro. Larry King was ok, but more matter of fact and I didn't think he really allotted Dr. Richardson, Gretchen or Roy enough time to get across their personal sentiments and feelings about how special Barbaro is. But it was good to get the anti-horse slaughtering message out to a broader audience.

Thank you Hennegan Brothers for your posting of Barbaro videos on YouTube. It is very kind of you to honor Barbaro in this way - and to help all of us who are very sad. Thank you Alex for suggesting this tribute.

g'morning, y'all

thank you Rikki and Donna, I'll go look.

The photo of Barbaro, Dr. Dean & Sabina during happier times is beautiful & touching. You can see the love of life in Barbaro's eyes & his incredible spirit.

The Hennegan brothers clips are beautiful...just hearing his breaths...if only...
He was certainly mugging for the camera, then strutting his stuff. I miss you Big B -- Love you so

Thank you Alex for posting these for us. You had the blessing of sharing alone time with Barbaro & I'm sure you'll treasure this for the rest of your days.

Another day F.O.B...

We must get thru it.

BARBAROS' MEMORY MUST LIVE THRU US FOREVER.

Heaven must be beautiful in the morning, Sweet Barbaro. In my thoughts & prayers always XXOO

The CBS interview is available for viewing on their web site - for any who missed it on the TV.

Mike C - there is no doubt that your wish will happen. Barbaro's memory will live on FOREVER.

Janice

So many beautiful, heartfelt posts... Barbaro is so loved.

Harriett - Lovey story. As I read it, I saw it happening.

Joyce - I've thought the same thing.

Alex - As always, I hope you are doing okay and I thank you for your efforts to keep us updated with information. It reassuring for us to know you are there.

Mrs. and Mrs. Jackson and Dr. Richardson - I am praying hard for you through this time.

I'm praying for all of us...

Good Morning FOB &, of course my sweet B.

I miss you so much Barbaro. It is so empty without you here to check on daily. I love you baby.

Hope all of you are healing a bit. I think we should just enjoy the pictures of him & remember how much we loved him, how much he was loved & how much he gave us as long as he could.

Have a good day everyone & Heal FOB Heal!

Janice from Florida - Go right ahead. I think we're all in "forever" mode. I know I have been since the first time Iaid eyes on his handsome face!

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

Barbaro, I miss you and will think of you always, so Good Morning Sweet Barbaro, you will be in out hearts forver.

Rembember that Barbaro is with our Lord no matter were his final resting place is going to be. I hope it is close to the Jackson's so they can go and visit him and plant flowers. This will give all at NBC and the Jackson's a place to spend time with him alone.

Lord, you Angel Horse Barbaro is by your side, Thank you for receiving him into your Heaven.

BELIEVE IN BARBARO ALWAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good morning Angel Barbaro. Hi Alex and FOBs.

I can't find the video at cbs ... does anyone have the specific link?

vicki

I just read that article, and you are right! It is great. Thank you for sharing it with us. Every little bit I can get of Barbaro and his connections helps me get through. It's been a rough couple of days, hasn't it?

Peace and blessing to all of you as we begin our journey out in the world today without Barbaro.

I miss him terribly.

Good Morning Our Angel Barbaro....

Last night I saw in the heavens the brightest star...and Barbaro it was you....

I do not have to ask how was your night...we know..another comfortable night, and today...who are you going to run with?

I watched your Mom and Dad Jackson, and Dr. R. with heavy hearts...like ours..so heavy with sadness and love...and your famous words from Mrs. Jackson (I never will forget) Grief is the price you pay for love.

Barbaro...you name will forever burn deep in our hearts...it will be a name that will go on forever...we will make sure of that.

As I said, something good comes out of something bad...and family/fans of Barbaro a window was opened last night.

The Barbaro Bill, anti-horse slaughter bill was spoken in front of millions of people.

The changes of the tracks to synthetic was announced.

Rescues, retirement homes, somewhere for the horses to go.

Showing that love to our animals large or small is humane euthanization.

Questioning whether the horses are being runned at a tender age.

And all of you know the rest...this was a wake up call for all of us...GET THE BARBARO BILL PASSED.

Anything that you do for Barbaro in honor please include me...

Now we can campaign even harder for the safe havens for Barbaro's brothers and sisters.

All of you are so special..I have family and I thank each of you.

God grant me the Serentiy to accept the things I cannot change....
The Courage to change the things I can....
And the Wisdom to know the difference...

Amen.

Run Barbaro Run...Pain Free...Always in our Hearts.

Have a Blessed Day...With Eternal Love.

Good morning, Barbaro. Good morning, Family. Barbaro, I am thinking of you first thing in the morning, and last thing at night - - and so many times in between. That is the same. I have to light a candle for you and tell you I love you.

Comfort to you beautiful people. It is hard.

Good morning, all.

I can't even put the exclamation point after that. Today seems like the worst of all.

Alex, thank you so much and also to the Hennegans for the video clip.

I was thinking that, for Mrs. Jackson, she no longer goes to NBC each day but for Dr. R., it's unavoidable. I think that will be a sad place for a long, long time.

I guess I'm a bit surprised they cremated him, but I love the idea of a museum. Wherever he goes, I'll be there someday to see him.

Hang in there, FOBs, and I'll try too, but it just feels so empty today.

Jane where did you read they cremated him?

####JOAN ROYA

Big Ditto you said it perfectly.

Good Morning Friends,

Have to come to this site.

Thank you Alex for all the articles and for asking John about making additional Babaro footage available. I can't wait to see when I get home. You are the best, Alex.

I miss your Barbaro updates and I miss Barbaro terribly. I'm taping the Early show but Larry King was made me sad... Mrs. J was so sad.. quiet and Dr. R.. what can I say?

I love Mrs. Jackson's idea about having a local museum for racehorses and having Barbaro buried there. Close to the Jackson's, Dr. R and NB.

My heart is so heavy.

Ugh...another day, another fog. I keep hoping this didn't really happen, but here I am again.

I cannot yet watch the video clips Alex, but I am glad that they are here. Someday I will be able to, but the grief is still to raw for me.

I missed Larry King but it sounds like it was wonderful to get all of these topics in the mainstream. We must seize the moment and push ahead with our agenda. Barbaro is counting on us. It truly was his mission to bring us together, to start something wonderful, and he must've known that his mission was over and he could rest in peace, comforted by the knowledge that he fufilled his destiny.

I hope today gets better for us all and that I can put my contact lenses in again sometime soon.

Good Morning, FOB's!

###
Am going up to the ranch today, but will head down to NBC first to get pictures of the posters at the fences. I can't wait to see the boys - the new horse has been nicknamed Ghost - in the moonlight, he is stunning. Will get pics today of him if he's cooperative(and Windy stops being so jealous...).

I thought I was better this morning, but I guess I still have a few tears to cry out. I am happy that we are all sharing our grief, but more importantly, sharing our Love.

Weather permitting, I want to bring breakfast to NBC tomorrow or Friday...have to see which is the better day weather-wise. Just a small way to thank them.

Rachel, I got your message...will call when I get back from the ranch. Thanks for getting back to me.

The one thing I'm pondering - over the last 8-9 months, many of us have found new paths in our lives. I went from the corporate world where its warm and supposedly secure to being in a pasture in the middle of winter with the wind whipping around me, wearing many layers of clothing doing energy healing on horses...

and I haven't been this happy in a LONG time.

Barbaro, thank you for being one of the catalysts to set me on this path. You are wiser than I can ever be.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

The Hennegans' outtake of Barbaro is priceless. At one point, in true Barbaro fashion, he's nipping a barbed wire on the top of the fence. Gives you a bit of a chuckle in a time of grief, while at the same time, shaking your fists and cursing the fates.

Hello FOBs, Good Morning Barbaro
(and it is always a beautiful morning with ACNs now),
I feel a bit better today. First night I think in three or four days that I actually-mostly-slept through the night. It had been such a painful weekend and week, at least we know now that we don't have to wake-up afraid for him or what might have happened overnight. But I still miss him, I miss how we would always talk to him about his mama and daddy and doctor and everything he did that day. It's the loss of someone in my life.
On Monday someone posted a message that advised when we lose someone me must hold on real tight to God's hand, and, with the other, gently let go of our loved one's (in our case, his hoof). That's what I'm starting to do now, going numb. I can feel my mindset change and it's trying to block out all the memories of him in order to protect me. I don't want to stop feeling for him- I want to feel that joy always, even if it brings me pain, because the joy was just so much beauty. So I'm resisting a part of grief :) I know things will change, never again being able to pray for his healing or waking up for live updates. But I can still love Barbaro and I can still love you all. We can all fight in his name and, in that way, keep the memory alive.
It hurts so bad to let go, even the slightest bit. I haven't taken my "Jingles for Barbaro" bumper sticker off the car window, and I won't until I have a suitable bumper sticker to replace it. Anyone have a bumper sticker maker, by chance? :) It should say something inspirational and beautiful, "The Miracle of Barbaro Continues" or even "Followers of Barbaro (FOB)." Heck, someone suggested yesterday "The Barbaro Effect" and I think it fits wonderfully.
I don't think I'll take my Barbaro ribbon off my purse for a very, very long time. The cross I hung by my lampshade and wore when the times got hard still hangs there, praying for him. My candles still light and the pictures by my desk remain, one my father took at the Derby has a carved rock beside it that has sat there for eight months- the rock says "hope." There is still hope, my friends, hope for the conquering of lamanitis, the end of slaughter and the saving of so many horses who, without Barbaro's procedures and doctor's learning, would never have survived.
I love you, Barbaro. I love all the FOBs who make me feel at home.
Sooner than later I'd like to email/send cards to my representatives in WI for the anti-horse slaughter bill. Does anyone know the representatives' contact infor for WI?
And today, before I leave for work, I'm going to plant some tulip bulbs. A friend from work, who I would never have had the courage to speak to without the grief from Barbaro, had a long, heartfelt discussion with me yesterday. She said that planting some flowers, even just a few seeds, would remind me of Barbaro every time I looked at them, and their growing would inspire me. When I plant them outside this spring it will be a sign of new life, around the time the next First Saturday in May rolls around.
Thank you all for sticking together through this ahrd time. Alex, thank you for keeping this site. I bless his connections, every single one of them (and there seem too many loviong souls even to list). And the Brothers, thank you for the clip of Big B in his heyday. It was a nice gift to wake up to.
Love,

I'm glad I'm not the only one with this unbearable empty feeling. I miss him so!

Now when I look up at the stars, I imagine him looking back at me. My love to you in your new home, Barbaro!

###Nancy
article on cremation

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/16584064.htm

Alex, watched Dr. Debbye and the You Tube entry; it's like Barbaro came to kiss us as he romped around. I sure do miss him. We all do. Take care and keep posting for us.

Love to all,
Deborah

Maybe this is easy for me to say because I have cremated all my cats, and I also have my fiance's cremated remains, but I truly support the Jackson's choice....and of course, it was THEIR choice to make. I believe that once the soul has left the body (as in 10:30 am EST January 29, 2007) what remains is just our earthly shell, and whatever the bereaved family decides to do with that earthly shell (no matter how beautiful!!!) is almost irrelevant - Barbaro's soul is where it belongs now.

His soul runs wild and free with so many other ancient and beautiful souls, AND his soul also lives forever in the hearts of all who love him!!!!!!!!!

I still can't stop the tears since Barbaro
lost his battle. There is a void. I had
such a love for that horse. My heart goes
out to New Bolton Center who must miss him
terribly. Also, the decision (which was the
right one) made by the Jacksons and Dr.
Richardson on Monday morning must have been
so terribly hard to make. My heart goes out
to them too. God Bless them for all they did
for Barbaro.

Also, to Alex and all the FOB's out there.
The comments posted on this sight have truly
helped my grief. There are many wonderful
people out there that are Barbaro fans and
it really helps to hear the outpouring of
grief and also uplifting messages at the
same time. Thank you Fans of Barbaro! You
are really helping me get through this
(except for the comments by Jason yesterday).

May God give you all strength and courage to
accept this great loss. We will all remember
Barbaro for being such a magnificant horse
for all that he accomplished on and off
the track. I just know he's up there running
around pain free and in his glory.

To All the Barbaro family . . .

I find myself getting teary eyed everytime I read the words 'gone' 'euthanized' 'death' and discussing burial options for Barbaro.

For so many months, we were conditioned to this horse overcoming the impossible odds. At each crisis, all of us prepared ourselves for the worst, but somehow, someway, he managed to pull through.

Our confidence in Dr. R was almost magical and almost demanding of his perfection. Despite all the candles and prayers and medical innovations Barbaro evoked and endured, the miracles finally came to an end.

I liked what Peter Brett said: "He fought long enough." And as Gretchen Jackson said: 'At least he's out of that damn stall!"

Now it's out turn to continue the fight for him. I hope that Alex will continue to foster this website and all the compassion and persistence that fueled our love for this horse can be channeled into new and different ways to improve the sport of racing.

I'm not sure I can deal with the 'worst' of this sport without finding a purpose in this tragedy.

This is a special group of people. But then we loved a very special horse and all the people that surrounded him became an extended family.

I'd like to think that Barbaro didn't lose his fight, he's just running on a different track.

I know everyone of us have a different belief when it come to the final resting places for our pets, but I do BELIEVE the Jackson's did the right thing by cremating Barbaro.

I had 2 dogs and a cat that passed on, my first dog I places in my back yard were I throught he would be happy. My other 2 animals i had cremated.

I rented a home when my first pet died, and now he is there, and I have moved, so I can never go back to spend time with him. This might sould harsh, but a least I have my other two with me all the time, and they are not in the cold ground.

Remember that the body is just a frame that holds the Soul.

GOOD MORNING HANDSOME! I know you had ACN and will have forever. I love you and miss you so very much but I know that you are in heaven watching over all of your family. Run free, run with the wind Sweet Prince.

PS..Did you give RUFFIAN that kiss for me???

BLB!!!

FOB FOREVER!!!

Karen - TN

Beautifully said, Janet.

Good morning to our beautiful Barbaro, running on his "different track."

I still check in every morning - the habit is going to be hard to break. Maybe we just need to refocus our energies now: Before they were split between our zeal and hope for Barbaro's recovery and our work to further the need of the horse in general. Now that our sweet boy is gone, we need to channel that energy into furthering the cause of his brothers and sisters. Our continued love for our Big Boss Horse will fuel our work still left to be done. Working as the Barbaro Nation, we are a force to be reckoned with!

I agree that Peter Brette said it best, "At least he can rest now. He's fought long enough."

Somehow, those simple words give me great comfort. It's been a rough couple of days for all of us. Best wishes to the Barbaro Nation today.

I saw the most beautiful sunrise this morning on my way to work, pretty yellow, orange, teal blue, and purple mixed in with some clouds, it was breath taking, to me it was Barbaro saying he is o.k. and that he is happy. I kept looking at it, and as I did I felt peace.
Barbaro, always and forever in my heart.

Good morning Big Boss Horse! I love you.

###

Fans and Family of Barbaro...I will wear my Barbaro bracelet...to remind others and me...Live for the Moment. Nothing is ever going to be put away that is Barbaro.

If there are scrapbooks, poems, etc...anything composed...maybe being sold for more money, etc., if so...I want my hands on one..

Dora Crow...noticed on Joe tbfriends...you were thanked by Joe for your card sent for his lost of Beans.

Our boy Barbaro is in heaven...but we will keep him and his memory alive with us.

Somebody post the CBS link, please?!

Good morning Alex and everyone.

Good morning Sweet Prince... how's heaven today?

FOB's it is hard to come to consiousness in the morning and have it all flood back to you, isn't it?

Ro & Brady

Alex, Thank you for keeping us all together, by managing this website. I don't know how we would be able to handle the loss of Barbaro, without the platform to encourage one another and continue Barbaro's legacy. This site brought us all together over the past 8 mths... and I pray will continue to be here for us in the future. Bless You.

Barbaro, Honey, I miss your stories everyday. The tears are still fresh and the pain is raw, throughout the day. I come to TWR and to NBC, to look for comfort. It's what I've done ever since your accident. It makes me feel close to you.

I love you champ. Your parents have something very special planned for your memory here on earth.

We will see you again one day sweetheart and will be able to look right into your beautiful eyes and hearts...and hear those glorious "snorts". ( Loved the you tube clip in Boyton Beach).

Bless you baby.

Peace to All.

I guess Churchill Downs would be the logical place to bury Barbaro's ashes. In my heart though, I think Pennsylvania near Lael Farm and New Bolton. The Jacksons are doing the right thing -- take some time to think about it.

oh, it's so good to see all the lurkers coming out of the closet and posting. There can never be too many Fans of Barbaro! Welcome, all.

ShelleyA and Leslie in MN - Loved the post:
"He "spoke" to me from 2000 miles away in the first place? Why is that any different than now?"

So true, so true... I am slowly recovering and I feel as though Barbaro is still "here".

Alex, thanks for the info about the First Saturday in May, that will awesome to see. Thanks for all you do and have done for all of us. Thanks for posting the clip of Barbaro.

I'm sure barBarO will be borrowing Big Red's Blackberry again sometime soon to send us another message from " hevvin"

The website for viewing the CBS video is here:
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml
My computer is acting like a bit of a butt at the moment ( ;) so I can't link directly to the video, but I remember it was in "top videos" or thereabouts. Very touching.
I love Barbaro too, Dr. R!

BTW, how many of us have sent flowers/gift baskets since his passing? I'm imagining a lot of us ;) Today I'm sending a carrot basket to the other horses at the hospital in memory of Barbaro. I love him so!

For those of you who watched Larry King, you saw that even through the grief of her loss, Gretchen Jackson made a valiant effort to make the public aware of the horse slaughter issue in this country. If she can do it, so can we!

The publicity we received tonight from Mrs. Jackson and Bo Derick is invaluable. We must “strike while the iron is hot”. Mrs. Jackson did that and she has asked us to do the same.

While I know we are all overwhelmed by our loss, this is the time to make our voices heard. Millions of people heard about the horrors of horse slaughter on Larry King tonight and we cannot let this opportunity get away from us.

In Barbaro's honor, please contact your representatives and urge them to join us. This is also the time to contact everyone you know and ask them to do the same. Everyone has been following this story for two days and we now have the attention of the entire country!!

PLEASE, we know how hard it is to rally but we would be wrong not to seize the moment. Barbaro would expect no less of us. Let’s not fail him.

Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at January 31, 2007 3:48 AM

Good Morning Friends

Good Morning Barbaro - saw you shining brightly in the night sky. Our loss is heaven's good fortune.

Miss you, love you FOREVER.

I'll always:

Believe in Miracles
Believe in Barbaro

Thank you so much Alex for keeping this site going and for lovingly continuing to post news and share Barbaro with us. How are you doing? This must be so difficult for you as you had the privilege of getting close to him. I guess Mrs. Jackson was right when she said, "Grief is the price we pay for love." Please take care of yourself.......Ernie

good morning fob's

alex--thank for everything--the list is very long!

cris beyers--i eagerly await barBarO's message today--

barbaro--miss you very much
rushing out now and hope to hear from you soon

love
linda

Hi Alex, I just saw the video of Barbaro in Boynton Beach. A beautiful rememberance of him.
I am in the NY area and can't wait for the movie to be shown at the Tribecca Film Festival.

I was up late last night again selectively reading the tributes to the Big Guy. He was a loving family member that will be missed.

So glad that you are now free of the confines you wore these past few months.

You'll always be my champ.

Love ya,
Edie

Does anyone know if the larry king episode will be played again. I missed it.

I am so void and numb at loosing our precious Barbaro. Thanks to all who cared for him and watched over him. And thanks to Alex for all the daily updates. Dr. R, the Jacksons, Edgar, Michael Mantz, all at New Bolton, thank you so very much for caring for Barbaro. He was truly a Champion.

I cannot stop the tears. This has been so difficult.

Alex - the video links in your recent updates are breathtaking. Thank you is never sufficient.

On Larry King last night, Mrs. J didn't pull any punches and described the horrors of the trip to slaughter - excellent that this info was broadcast at such a wide audience, and at this time when the issue is ripe in Washington. Describing Barbaro's last moments and passing as peaceful; leaving it to us to draw the conclusion that no, slaughter is NOT humane euthanasia.

And I hope everybody stayed tuned to Larry King after the Jacksons and Dr. R's segment was finished, because Bo Derek and Jack Hanna and a spokesperson from PETA were on. All very good for our cause(s); the PETA person was not too over the top.

The Jacksons clarified that yes, they do own both the brothers of Barbaro (the baby and the one on the way) and said they would be named after additional dogs from that family picture they named Barbaro from. (Barbaro was named for the dog at the far right, btw.)

############
Post by kathryn in ok at January 31, 2007 12:47 AM
got me going again. I too had non-horsepeople from my life emailing and calling me when they saw the news. Not only does it show how we feel/felt; it shows that some people picked up on it, and realized how emotionally invested we are. We are lucky to have such people in our lives - as well as each other.

One of the calls I got yesterday was from the webmaster of a bar which is my band's "home base" - suggesting that I submit some copy about Barbaro for him to put on their website. Of course I jumped at the opportunity, and will be passing out info re the slaughter ban bill and info re contributing to NBC's Laminitis research fund and various rescue organizations. I was doing this already at performances, but now also have their website for getting the word out. Every little bit helps.

######## FOB FOAL WATCH at MHR

http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages/?msg=4475.1

New thread at the Forum - TWO babies expected; one "any minute" basically, with a CONTEST for guessing the sex and date of birth; the other in a few months. Pics of expectant mamas Rosie and Misty are up. These are the pregnant mares that the FOBs expressly requested/directed MHR to buy at the October auction in Oregon. These are horses that Barbaro saved. These are

Babies being born because of Barbaro.

Rosie's baby, who's due "any minute," will bear the name Bobbie's Lil Angel, while Misty's baby is to be Bobbie's Spirit.

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

Hope Peace Love Music & RESPECT - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother & Pleasure's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL)

I watched Larry King last night. In listening to the Jackson's & Dr. Richardson I found some comfort. I know they are right when they said they wanted Barbaro to have some sort of quality of life. And if they could not give it to him, then it was time to set him free.
It is we, who are left behind, who grieve for our loss. Thank God for giving us Barbaro. Thank God for giving us this place to be together.
When there is death, there is life. Eternal life for Barbaro. A new full brother to be born to carry on his legacy. May God bring peace to our hearts. I know He has given Barbaro's spirit a place to be free.
Kathy

###

Susan E.. Another long day... yes. I can relate to your post. If it's long for us, how long is it for the Jacksons, Dr.R and staff, Michael,Peter and Tom?

#####

Vicki,

What a wonderful article about Barbaro and the people who love him by Vic Zast. He talked about Barbaro's brilliance on the track (should we forget) and his brilliance off the track.

###

Shelley in Ca-

Another touching article about Barbaro. Dr. Palmer spoke poignantly about Barbaro, Dr. R and the Jacksons. I just loved what he had to say.

We love you, Barbaro. You are my special boy and will always be in my heart.

Love,
Daphne and Penelope

Link to Debbyre Turner and Dr. R: look in right column to click on the video.

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml

Whoa Angel Sweet Bobby J, I just jumped over three steps in the seven stages of grief right into anger. I am angry, that you were taken from us, I am angry that we had eight months of ACN only for you to leave us in a heartbeat. I am angry.
#######
Somebody made a comment about Jay leno...I don't think it was tasteless, but maybe that is because I made the same joke before he did. So I guess I am just an angry tasteless family member.
Got some sleep last night finally, hope you all did too.
Love to family,
Susan
Believe in Miracles. Believe in Barbaro.

Good Morning Everyone,
Another day of sunshine.

Barbaro,
Thank you for shining so brightly. I love you.

Just to let you all know Pat Delong is donating $5.00 to laninitis research with any purchase of Barbaro votives, purchasd on her site. I have a t-shirt a mouse pad and a new sweatshirt coming. Her work is beautiful. I love The Spirit of Barbaro. Here is her website Pat DeLong's Anything Goes In Art. She is great to do business with and a nice person.

Some things I (re)learned from Barbaro...

Don't be afraid to do what you were born to do.

The future is uncertain. Face it day by day with courage and strength.

Everyone deserves a chance... no matter how long
the odds.

It's a blessing to be surrounded by those who
love without reservation.

Love without reservation.

Faith, hope, inspiration and love can come from
anywhere... even a horse. Especially a horse.

Good morning my new friends. I had to check in to see how you were doing. My hope was for a more restful sleep for you all. I hope you did.

To Dora,
Yes Dora, I am one in the same, just hit the wrong button. Here, I am Verna1. Thank you for catching that, I missed it... just wiped out I guess.

To Peggy,
I agree with you that the "peta lady" did make some valid points. It may not be the majority to join wth PETA because of how they handle things, but as long as people are talking, the point is being made and that is what is most important. That our beautiful horses are treated right.

To nina,
I to felt more time should have been taken to check out our boy after he broke the gate. The wrap on that leg didnt look right to me. But I could be wrong on that. But, I dont think they were going to hold up the race to check him or to pull him, he was the next Triple Crown Winner on his way. I guess pride can over ride judgment sometimes. I dont think they raced him for the money, but because they believed in him. "If only" is just wasted energy now, he is gone. I only hope there have been valuable lessons learned by many and his death wasnt in vein.
Love to you all. Verna

####

Our lovely family of Barbaro...

The Senate and the House has no excuse now..for not passing the Barbaro Bill...the anti-horse slaughter bill...

The truth will set you free...and last night millions of viewers heard the truth about our lovely horses being slaughtered....

And yes...this is the Barbaro Bill...they changed the gun bill to the Brady Bill..so they can make the anti-horse slaughter bill..the Barbaro Bill...

Our prayers and hearts will burn for the glory of Barbaro...

DEAR DR. RICHARDSON;

THANK YOU FOR FOR ALL THAT YOU DID TO SAVE BARBARO. WE KNOW THAT YOU DID EVERYTHING THAT YOU POSSIBLY COULD TO SAVE HIM. PLEASE DO NOT FEEL THAT YOU LET US DOWN OR MORE IMPORTANTLY BARBARO. YOU GAVE HIM MANY MONTHS OF COMFORT AND LOVE. BECAUSE OF YOUR CARE AND LOVE. YOU GAVE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE HOPE IN TIMES WHERE HOPE SEEMED ALL BUT IMPOSSIBLE.
WE ALL KNOW THAT NO ONE COULD HAVE GIVEN HIM BETTER CARE AND LOVE THAN YOU DID. I KNOW THAT GOD WILL GIVE YOU THE GRACE AND COMFORT THAT YOU NEED DURING THESE SAD TIMES. WHEN THE SADNESS SUBSIDES, WE CAN ALL LOOK BACK AND REFLECT ON HOW LUCKY WE ALL WERE TO HAVE KNOWN SUCH A GREAT HORSE WHOSE SPIRIT AND COURAGE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF A NATION.

GOD BLESS YOU.

DENNIS AND MARY LAW

I was reading about Man In Havana this morning -
he has the same mother as Barbaro, but his father is Quiet American. He is owned by Lael Stables and will be trained by Michael Matz.

Sorry if this info. was already posted but I find it to be comforting news.

I didn't start posting until Monday, although I have been checking this site everyday for many months. I have read a few comments from people that aren't sure why they are still checking the site. I can only speak for myself, but I think I am still checking it because I personally know very few people in my private life who are racing fans, or even know anything about horses. Some people I know read about what happened Monday and commented that they thought it was sad, but I know they really do not understand how I feel. When I read all the comments posted here it makes me feel better to know that there are many people out there who feel just like I do right now. I became totally hooked on this sport when I watched the Triple Crown races in 1973 and fell completely in love with a Big Red horse named Secretariat. I now can say that I have a love/hate relationship with this sport. These horses are magical amazing creatures to me and I love them all. Please keep this site going! It will mean so much to so many people.

Gayle

A must read!

This is a well-written article from Pat Forde of ESPN. He raises "issues horse racing must now confront and discuss, in the wake of its worst fatal breakdown since Ruffian in 1975."

He clearly and succintly has outlined 'our mission' as FOBs to 'finish Barbaro's unfinished tasks'.

His words: "Doing something to make the sport safer would burnish Barbaro's legacy, and might lessen the sadness we'll feel when we see his name on the Churchill Downs wall."

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2747259

Another "get together" idea. Anyone going the 2007 Kentucky Derby could get together (before, during or after). There could be Fans of Barbaro at the 2007 Derby. Maybe the antislaughter bill will be passed by then. What a celebration we could have.

two developments this morning that might make this day a little lighter:

Gretchen Jackson says that Barbaro has been cremated, which means there will be no rush to figure out where to bury him.

she says maybe a museum for horses from the area -- which I love. I think that's a wonderful idea.

also, there are beautiful articles in the Phila Inquirer this morning, one by Mike Jensen and a couple of others -- I got the link from this board -- these are wonderful articles. very, very helpful.

I'd bet anything we would be allowed -- if not invited -- to participate if there's going to be a museum. that hope will sustain me for a while.

I can't believe how hard this is. thank you all so much for being here, and thank you Alex for bringing us together.

Shelley A & Debra,

I agree that to honor Barbaro we should do our part to pursue the legislation to ban the slaughter of horses. Even though I'm still reeling, I will get moving on this now. If Mrs. Jackson could bring the issue up on Larry King - it shows how important it is to her. It is equally important to me.

Janice
Proud to be a Barbaro fan

#########
My favorite part of the Jane Smiley NY Post editorial:

And then, during his medical saga, he showed that he was intelligent, too. According to a friend of mine who talked to trainer Michael Matz in the summer, Barbaro knew when he needed some pain relief -- he would stand by the sling and shake it until they put him in it, and when he was tired of it, he would shake himself so that it rattled, signaling he was ready to be taken out. And then he would go to his stall and lie down.

WOW - We knew that he let them know when he wanted to go in the sling - but this is the first I see of exactly how he worked out the nonverbal communication. Like my cat who rattles his empty food dish. What a smart, good boy.

I loved reading this, thank you Alex again and again for making all of these wonderful tidbits available to us. Indebted forever. CJ

Good morning FOBs,

So comforting to be able to share my grief. Thank you all and for your words of sympathy.

Please include me in any memorial for Barbaro.

God bless you Barbaro - run fast, fast, fast and free.

Alex, please keep this website going and thank you.

Sally in Louisiana

I couldn't sleep well last night. I woke up early and couldn't go back to sleep. I just lay there with a knot in my stomach and an empty sad feeling. Barbaro has touched our lives and hearts in a profound and emotional way, and a piece of all of us left with him. This pure innocent beautiful magnificent lovable courageous creature, this great horse, left us behind, decreasing this world, but increasing Heaven. Someday he will return with some lucky soul riding on his back. Something to look forward to. Right now though, he's giving bareback rides to lucky folks in Heaven, rolling in the grassy meadows, running full bore on four good legs with Ruffian, Seabiscuit, Secretariat, Fog, Pine, and all the others.

Barbaro has already been cremated....hard to believe...not only has his spirit left this world, but now his old body is gone as well. Don't fret though, he now has a new body in Heaven, and he's just as handsome as ever.

Here's a new article about Dr R, who's having the roughest time of all of us. Pray for him. http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/16585424.htm

Good morning in Heaven, Magnificent One - Haven't been able to stop crying yet, I miss you so...but I know you are well and happy in your new life and that you will help comfort all of us. And I KNOW we will all see you again one day. I LOVE YOU SO - YOU WILL BE IN MY HEART FOREVER!

I just called and e-mailes both of my Senators and my Rep, and asked for there support to pass the horse anit-slaughter bill.
I also asked that they rename the bill to:
THE BARBARO BILL.

#####

FYI FOB'S....

Our local radio station, 104.5 The Zone, here in Nashville has a "put a sock in it" day on Wed. Well I called in this morning on my way to work to tell all the people, including them, that have made jokes about BARBARO to put a sock in it. Well they hung up on me and then started making fun of me. The one host of the show that made a BAD remark yesterday is someone that I used to love, his name is Frank Wycek, the former Titan or Oiler for those in Houston. Needless to say, I DO NOT like him any more and will NEVER listen to their show again. As a matter of fact I think when I get home his jersey that I have will go in the trash, where he belongs!

LOVE YOU BARBARO FOREVER!!!!

Karen - TN

Here is an article by a local Sports Columnist, Rick Bozich, in Louisville, KY. I have included a couple of excerpts and the link to the entire article.

"I always scoffed at people who said they could watch horses parade around the ... paddock and then pick the Derby winner." "Then I saw Barbaro"

"Yesterday the Jacksons decided that Barbaro had suffered-and fought-enough. Now the memories of Barbaro cannot be simply those he delivered last spring. Barbaro has to remain the force that inspires the best minds in racing to determine what can be done to protect these magnificent animals. Just as nothing seemed impossible when Barbaro was in flight, nothing should be off limits in discussing how to make the game safer. Racing surfaces, medication rules, the calendar, distances, and demands of the Triple Crown--all must be in play. Barbaro gave his life to horse racing. It's time for horse racing to give everything it can to him."

I say amen.

Still struggling so much this morning. I miss Barbaro so much. I picture him leaping over fences...and galloping with the wind. I wish that the pain would end because it feels unbearable at times. I definitely lost a family member when Barbaro passed on. I love him.

Oh poor Dr. R. I wondered if the empty stall would be too much. I had dreams all night last night about Barbaro. He was alive and well in them. Then I woke up and fell a pit in my stomach. I don't want him to be gone. I miss him

Renee, thanks for the Pat DeLong link. I just ordered a mouse pad and the large votive candles which I will place next to my Barbaro Beanie Baby.

I watched the Jacksons and Dr. R on Larry King last night and Dr. R on Good Morning America this morning. I feel their pain. I can't imagine what it must feel like for Dr. R to go past that empty stall and remember what it was like when he checked on our Precious Boy every morning. So once again I began my day in tears. Will the pain every go away?

If I was Dr R, I know I'd break down and start sobbing every time I saw that empty stall. My heart goes out to him.

The 'Barbaro Effect' has taken hold:

"Keith Chamblin, senior vice president of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, told the Louisville Courier-Journal last night that he planned to launch a national fund-raising initiative into laminitis research in Barbaro's memory. Details were being finalized and were to be presented to the Jacksons for their approval, and could be announced as early as today.

Chamblin said NTRA Charities would channel 100 percent of contributions into research. The venture also could include public-service announcements on NTRA-sponsored racing telecasts and dates for organized fund-raisers at tracks and simulcast outlets across the country. Roy Jackson has been apprised of the effort, Chamblin said."

For full story and more: http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/16584064.htm

I feel Barbaro charging down the back stretch!

Good morning all~ I felt a little better after watching Mrs. Jackson last night. She is such a classy, dignified lady and I admire her strength. I will try to draw on that as I attempt to find some normalcy today. My heart is so heavy, the tears show up with no warning and I think the 'anger' part of grief is beginning. Maybe this anger part is good-- energy to be used to fight for our horses lives & safety on and off the track. 'One day at a time' is what we all told Barbaro and it holds true for me now.

Sue H~ if you're out there, I got your email. It was wonderful to hear from you. You've got mail too.

Alex~ thank you for keeping this family together, you are a treasure!

Barbaro, sweet colt~ have a fun day in heaven chasing the angels. They have wings and can fly, but then again, you know how to fly too, don't you? You showed us that at the Derby.... I love you, baby boy, now and forever.

It's almost funny, so many feelings at the same time. We are sad and angry at losing Barbaro, and love him, and see the miracle, and honor his memory, and carry on what he started, all at the same time. For me one of the things was trust, just trusting Dr Richardson and the Jacksons, to do right by Barbaro, and for Barbaro to do right by himself. One of Mrs Jacksons interviews over the weekend, she said "We trust Dean." We all do. I would take a horse to him in a heartbeat.

My gut instinct is telling me Barbaro helped make this decision. He was so smart, and aware, and helped show people what he needed all along. He must have known and been at peace with it. I feel that very strongly.

Everything I have learned about the process of dying, it is so easy and like a home coming. It just seems harder for us here.

Take good care of your hearts today, FOBs. Welcome new posters, and ((((hugs)))) to all.

Just watched the CBS interview with Dr Richardson. What a humble man. Barbaro got the best care. No doubt about that.

#########
Sabrina, Jocne M, others who think all the talk on Larry King about euthanasia was "creepy" - it would have been, BUT FOR the timing, with the slaughter ban bill coming up.

Don't you guys get it? After hearing first-hand descriptions of humane euthanasia - PEACEFUL - nobody in their right mind can persist in believing that what goes on on the way to and at the slaughterhouse is comparable.

Compare and Contrast. (Mrs. J did a great job portraying the trip to the slaughterhouse.)

That's how I saw it, anyway. I think Larry did very well by the prohorse antislaughter people by asking those questions. CJ

in the cbs video Dr. R's eyes look as swollen as mine were yesterday

#### ooops - Joyce M

Good morning all,

Well, our grieving is not over, but I feel and see here, that our resolve is picking up. The Barbaro Effect has definitely taken hold - it's what will keep us motivated in his honor. You could see it in Mrs. Jackson's face last night - the day before was only sorrow - but last night the resolve was there. I'm feeling the same - for the sake of Barbaro and all the horses. We all will make a difference.

I believe if someone were to put together a DVD of all the clips they could get of Barbaro I believe a lot of people would would spend the $25.00 - $35.00 for the cost with the profit going to the Laminitis Fund or something like that.

Cyd in Wyoming

MikeC- Whenever you log on this morning this article makes me think about how you felt about Barbaro. I think you'll like it.

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070130/COLUMNISTS01/701300491/1005

Also everyone, I will be going to the 2007 Kentucky Derby and would love to some how meet up. We are flying all the way from Washington state and will arrive the Wednesday prior to the race. I'm sure we can work something out. I want to see Fair Hill too. Will that be far?

Ashley

THIS JUST IN....A STATEMENT SENT TO US FROM SENATOR LANDRIEU...

Debra,
Here is a statement from Senator Landrieu -

"Barbaro was an inspiration not only to equestrians and horse lovers,
but to all Americans. I hope that his memory will serve as added
motivation in our continued fight for the safety and welfare of horses,
and his legacy will serve as an inspiration to get the Virgie S. Arden
American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act passed through Congress."

Senator Landrieu
-------------------------------------------------------------

For those of you who watched Larry King, you saw that even through the grief of her loss, Gretchen Jackson made a valiant effort to make the public aware of the horse slaughter issue in this country.  If she can do it, so can we!  The publicity we received tonight from Mrs. Jackson and Bo Derick is invaluable.  We must “strike while the iron is hotâ€?.  Mrs. Jackson did that and she has asked us to do the same.
 
While I know we are all overwhelmed by our loss, this is the time to make our voices heard.  Millions of people heard about the horrors of horse slaughter on Larry King tonight and we cannot let this opportunity get away from us.
 
In Barbaro's honor, please contact your representatives and urge them to join us.  This is also the time to contact everyone you know and ask them to do the same.  Everyone has been following this story for two days and we now have the attention of the entire country!!
 
PLEASE, we know how hard it is to rally but we would be wrong not to seize the moment.  Barbaro would expect no less of us.  Let’s not fail him.
 
Shelley and Debra

C Jaffe -- I hear you on the talk about euthanasia, then the talk of the horse slaughter legislation on Larry King. The difference in the caring, compassionate, peaceful way they said farewell to Barbaro, then how the SH industry treats horses. I wonder if this comparison is something to go forward with, in our discussions with our representatives, if it would be appropriate, acceptable? It would sure be powerful and help show the true definition of humane euthanasia.

####
Edie,
Could you please give me info. about what's playing at the Film Festival???

Thanks,
Kelly

Alex,

Thanks for keeping the site going. It means a lot. I believe that the concern for horses that has been generated through love for Barbaro will continue. Even though the news of Barbaro will slow down soon, I plan to continue checking in every morning to read all the wonderful stories and ideas that have come up to honor our hero and horses everywhere.

Thanks again.

Why am I so heartbroken over a horse I never had seen, touch, or Kissed? I just am is all I can say.Do any of you feel the same way? I am just having a hard time with this. Thank you Alex and FOB for being here.

Has anyone heard anything specific about changing the name of the bill to "The Barbaro American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act?" I Googled the name Virgie S. Arden and the only results were the name of this bill.. does anyone know the background for naming the bill?

Does anyone have a link to the video clip of Dr R's interview this morning? Watching him and the Jackson's helps me deal with this.

Alex, how are you? I hope you are finding comfort in the time you spent with Barbaro. I have to believe that it gives you great solace. It remains difficult to log on and find no update on Barbaro. For just a split second, I find myself wondering what's wrong. But then.......

It was hearbreaking to watch Dr. Dean this morning. But everything has been heartbreaking. It does provide some solace, though, knowing that this obviously heartbroken man was the one walking into Barbaro's stall every morning.

Bless the Jacksons, they are such thoroughbreds. But one look into Mrs. Jackson's eyes tells all the tale that need be told. I find it touching that they have had Barbaro cremated. Perhaps Mrs. Jackson simply could not bear Barbaro going to his rest with his ravaged hooves and crooked leg. Oh my, the tears flow.....

And Michael and Peter? One can barely imagine the depths of their broken hearts. Perhaps it was best that they weren't here at the end. The tears flow again.....

I think the Jacksons idea of a racing museum, perhaps on New Bolton Center land, is a magnificent idea. And, oh my, what a wonderful resting place it would be for our beloved boy. For some reason, it makes my heart soar. Our boy would be near all the people that loved him most. And I know it may sound silly to some, but I truly believe that is what Barbaro wanted. Maybe that is why......well, I'll let that go. The tears are too much this morning.

We FOB's could really do some fundraising for this museum, couldn't we?

Love to all, and Rest in Peace, Barbaro.

When I awoke this morning, I looked out the kitchen window. It was still dark and the moon was spectacular, glowing brighter than I've remembered. And I thought of Barbaro's light. It is everywhere, with all of us, and will never be extinguished.

I miss him so much...

Pam

Thank you Deb and Shelley!

For our boy's memory and legacy we have work to do!

I read in my local newspaper this morning that Barbaro's body is no longer at NBC. Does anyone know where his body is? Has he been cremated? Any word yet where his final resting place will be?

Still stunned and shattered ... and if I am, I can't imagine how everyone who cared for him every day at NBC and the Jacksons feel.

Just watched the Hennegan Brothers outtakes of Barbaro.... to hear him breathing, mugging for the camera, showing off.... he was back in all his glory, Barbaro just being Barbaro... and it wasn't even a year ago. Thank you for giving him back to us, if only for a moment. I miss him.

joe

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml

why did the jacksons cremate barbaro ,i wished they would have buried him whole like secreariat;s was. marge dowler

Joe, look on the lower right and pick the video

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml

Thanks Sarah

LLeslie,

Yes, I am dying inside. I have not stopped crying. It is hard, very hard. I can only imagine what Dr. R and the Jacksons must feel if I feel this way over something I never really got to see in person. What an amazing animal.

Thanks Chris

marge, I myself will be cremated one day with no viewing of my body whatsoever. The ashes are pure - dust to dust. It is much more fitting than thinking of our boy - excuse me here all - rotting in the ground.

Dear FOB (Family of Barbaro)

Somehow all of you make it possible to feel better about this tragedy. Barbaro was magnificent as a Kentucky Derby Winner, as a Recovering Winner (suffering through all of his pain) and now as a Legend.

He simply was Magnificent and now he will always be remembered as the most special of Champions in life and death. He would want all of us to see his beauty and to keep loving him and to keep believing in what is best about life.

Everyday I would not only come here to see how he was doing, but to see how all of us were managing. To FOB, thank you so much.

Hopefully we can now do positive things for all animals by donating our time and effort where it is needed.

God bless Barbaro.

Could someone please tell me if Barbaro, in fact, has been cremated? I have not heard anything official regarding this or his final resting place. Thank you!

Hello everyone,

Never has there been a moment that has been more advantageous for all of us campaigning so hard to better the lives of all horses. The Larry King Show last evening put the issue of horse slaughter in the limelight to a wide audience.

Let’s not lose the attention. Now is a great time to not only call your representatives, but also consider writing letters to your newspapers, other publications, etc. Help spread the word through this avenue of public commentary.

Speak to your colleagues and friends, ask people to also call their own state representatives. If each of us tells a few people a day, and asks them to call their reps, or write to a newspaper, and they in turn tell people, we cannot fail.

It’s that proverbial “house of cards” that we have heard the last few days. Only this time, the cards represent a good thing.

Get the word out now while we have a captive audience. The more people know, the more our effort will gain strength. We are a force to be reckoned with.

Just like Barbaro.

And Barbaro, just as I said to you the day you went to rainbow bridge....We won't let you down boy, we'll finish what you started.

Leslie- yes I feel the same way. I'm still crying and in disbelief. Then all the people I work with keep saying"gosh what happened, I thought he was doing good and getting out of there". Then I just lose it again because he was that close to beating this thing.

Right with you, Skyler!

Deba, made all my calls this morning. We must do this for The Love of Barbaro. This race he will win, and we will carry him to the winners circle.

LETS GO GET THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm glad the Hennegan brothers are putting Barbaro in their movie. I've been thinking the last couple of days that if there was a video out there about Barbaro I would sure buy it. I was wishing someone would put something together and sell it with at least a portion of the proceeds going to laminitis research. I'm sure it would raise a lot of funds and also bring joy to the many who so miss Barbaro.

I too keep coming here to check for updates - only now I am wondering where he will be buried. I've been so sad and feel such a void. What if? What if he hadn't taken that misstep? What if he could have overcome the laminitis in his left hind? What if???

It's so hard to come to grips with but I will keep trying. I saw Larry King last night and I also taped it. I will keep watching it over and over if only to see the footage of our Bobby again and again. I miss him so. I'm hoping that some of the great spirit and fire that so brougth Barbaro the attention he deserved is imparted to the new colt about to be born. That is my wish for him. I am going to follow both of Barbaro's full brothers and hope they can fulfill the legacy that should have been Barbaro's - a Triple Crown.

I've seen some comments here about the lady from PETA on the show last night. She was a little extreme, but I think the part about waiting one more year to race these horses might not be a bad idea. If their bones really are still immature it makes sense. I don't know that much about horses - only what I have learned here over the past 8 months - but that makes sense to me. I have Great Danes and I know that they don't fully develop until they are 2 years old and you do have to be very careful about their bones when they are growing.

I'm so glad this site is still open and hope it continues. There's a comfort in knowing there are at least some people out there who feel as I do and are having trouble with this. Not many people I know really understand how I can be so depressed over a horse I didn't even know. I think all of you can and I thank you for that.

Chris Byers :)

Go get'em girlfriend!

Monday we were all frenzied and in schock!

Yesterday was numb disbelief!

Today I at least, just feel a deep sorrow. Cannot imagine how those who came in actual contact with Barbaro are feeling.

Ro & Brady

One more thing

The thing about Barbaro that makes me smile and the happiest and touches me deeply are video clips of him when he was frolicking and playing and jumping and tossing his beautiful head this way and that you would look into his eyes and they were all full of mischie.

Oh, what a Beautiful Boy!

###

Do you think family of Barbaro that we might send a huge card to Dr. R...from us...and maybe if not too heartbreaking a Barbaro bracelet and Barbaro beannie baby...etc...

Something to let him know we are here for him also...and that we love him..and Barbaro certainly did...just thinking...

I personally felt better when I read Peter Brett's remarks .. "At least now he can rest. He has fought for a long time!"

God Bless Barbaro!

########

Ashley, I am going to the Derby. Have my hotel in Frankfort and farm tours arranged. We'll be driving down. I'd love to hook up with others going there. I'm sure there will be a memorial and ceremony for our boy, even if he's not buried there. It's a trip I've wanted to do for many years, and now all the more reason to go this year.

Thank you, Alex, for the URL for the Youtube clips...I want to remember Barbaro as he was before the injury, not just re-run the pictures of him hurt and struggling to recover.

I hope the documentary will be available on DVD or VHS tape, not just broadcast, since we don't have cable and get only a few channels.

I just found this article that has several from Michael Matz since Barbaro's passing. Haven't seen this before. Have tissues ready

http://www.ntra.com/content.aspx?type=news&id=23124

###

Lleslie,
I know how you feel. I feel exactly the same way. How do I feel lost when I was never in his presence? We never looked into each others eyes but yet I can't get his eyes out of my mind. I miss him so much. Just knowing that he's not there any longer.
I think my husband truely thinks I need pychological help at this point. He thinks I'm nuts.
Maybe I am nuts. But I don't need to physically know an animal to become attached to it. If I'm this bad over an animal that I don't know, well, you can only imagine how I am over the loss of an animal that I have become attached to. It's not pretty, let's leave it at that.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'll take animals over people any day. Sorry if this offends anyone but I honestly feel this way.

I love you sweetie. Kisses on your beautiful nose. If I could kiss your nose across the state then surely I can kiss it in heaven too.

Run like the wind baby, run like the wind.

"Barbaro taught her about the love of sport"


Great, moving great piece by an FOB writer in the Philadelphia Inquirer! And her visit to Barbaro at NBC... and checking constantly on the blogs... this is the Friends of Barbaro / www.timwoolleyracing.com story... Link above, excerpt below...



Barbaro taught her about the love of sport

By Elizabeth LaBan

For The Inquirer


"....Two weeks ago, I persuaded my family to drive to Kennett Square. I wanted to see the decorated fence at the New Bolton Center. I wanted to see Kennett Florist, where baskets have been made almost daily for Barbaro. I wrote about a woman who makes chocolates in the shape of the beloved horse. And, in one of the luckier moments of my life, I got to see Barbaro. His surgeon, and our friend, Dean Richardson, had invited us to the hospital for a tour. We saw the X-ray room with some X-rays of Barbaro, which was about as close as I expected to get to him. We saw operating rooms and the famous recovery pool seen in so many photos. And then Richardson told us to suit up for the ICU. I could barely breathe. We walked into the room, and there, in the corner, was the horse I had read and cared about so much. He was lying on his right side in his hay, and he looked right at us. Richardson fed him one of the apples we brought. It was a great day.

I continued to check in constantly with the Web site, hoping, as everyone did, that improvement would continue. Over the weekend things were clearly worse. My husband was patient when I cried at breakfast.

On Monday I checked the blog every few minutes. It was clear something was happening, and I had to tear myself away. I had been away from my computer for barely two hours. We were buying lunch meat at a deli in Roxborough when the man behind the counter said, "Did you hear, they put the horse down?"

My husband immediately suggested I go listen to the car radio. That's what he would have done, I know, if he needed to learn about his team or a fallen hero. He understands. He never once said, "He was just a horse."

"Sports are mostly about losing," he reminded me yesterday. "I know," I told him. "But I wanted Barbaro to live."

Barbaro took me and so many people on an amazing journey. I can't imagine ever caring about another horse so much.

Still, I can't help but wonder what this spring will bring. This is the first year I can actually name three horses that might run in the Kentucky Derby months before the race. And I can't imagine not having a horse to root for.

I have been following this wonderful horse since his win in Kentucky. I have been so upset for the past three days I couldn't even post my thoughts.

I am so angry because we are focusing on laminitis as the cause of his death but if we are really honest with ourselves his real cause of death was racing. Laminitis was the effect and not the cause.

If we are truely to honor his life we must focus on the cause and try and work to make this sport more accountable to its athletes. If it was up to me I would not even allow racing in this country as it is just another effect of horse slaughter. We are breeding horses for racing and when they do not fit the bill anymore where do they go. Racing is the cause for many of the issues here.

This is the final straw for me and I willl never watch another horse race. As the PETA representative said last night wee should stop romanticizing racing and deal with what it really is. It is just a venue for gambling. It makes me sick. I know I will offend some people here but if we really want to honor this horse and his subsequent death let's look at what is really going on and work to stop the problems with racing which is the cause of many of the issues we are struggling with.

doe ... I whole-heartedly agree with you. I will also take animals over people any day. They are so pure of heart and ask for so little ... only the love of humans and nutrition for their existence. I haven't cried this hard or had eyes this swollen since I lost my 16 year old Miniature Schanuzer, Brandy, in 1993!!! And I am still not over losing him. I think it is good therapy to still talk to Barbaro. I truly believe he hears us in his heart. And I think it is wonderful that you still send him kisses. I know he can feel them and the warmth of your love!

Ruth
Proud Fan of Barbaro

"Barbaro's Spirit Will Live Forever"

Good Morning Sweet Prince.

Good Morning ALL, I thought today would be better after seeing the Jacksons last night and how strong they are; but nope, the heaviness of heart is still with me today. LLeslie, I'm like you, it's been so hard and all consuming. I see a lot of you still feel the same and it sure helps to know I'm not alone.

Thank you Alex for allowing us to grieve together.

Welcome to all the new posters (and quite a few men at that, thank you), it continues to amaze me how many people Barbaro touched and have affected their lives.

Dr. Richardson, I'm so very sorry for the pain you're enduring; I believe that he trusted and loved you enough to know that you would be strong enough to always know what he wanted and that he was part of everything everyone did for him. Thank you for your compassion, respect and devotion to Barbaro and all the animals you treat.

Judy

Dear FOBs:

Thanks to all of you for being here these past few days. It's so wonderful to see not only the long-time friends on this site, but all of those "new" FOBs who had never posted until this week. It's been said before, but I am so grateful to have all of you who understand the depths of feeling we all share for Barbaro. After 2 days of headaches and feeling ill, I went home last night with a smile on my face to tell my husband about all the great plans the FOBs are making to honor Barbaro. Count me in--financially and physically for dedications, Barbaro Runs or booths at the Derby! I haven't seen the Larry King show yet or read today's posts, but I look forward to more of your comforting words. Hope you all have a better day today.

Good Morning Sweet Barbaro! Imiss you terribly. Run, run like the wind with Lost in the Fog and Island Pond and the rest of your friends. Messaging misses you too as do we all. Many hugs and kisses on your beautiful nose.

Hi Everone!
Thank you for all the beautiful posts. We'll all just keeping one day at a time. The video Barbaro: A Farewell is soooooooooooo beautiful and so worthy of our beautiful Champ.

Alex, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you have done and continue to do for Barbaro and his worldwide family. Hope you are hanging in there as well as can be expected. My best to everyone at Fair Hills and everyone connected with Fair Hills and the New Bolton Center as well as Kennett Florist and Barbaro's 'real' family. We'll all get through these next months and years especially at Derby time but it will never be the same as it never is when someone has left such a hole in your heart at their passing.

Will check back later. Thank you.

anne- horses that don't race fall victim to laminitis all the time. It can happen to any horse not just racehorses.

Tim & Alex - thank you for this site. We need it so much. We are all in such pain, more pain than I ever believed I could have over an animal that was not my own. But here we all are and we are all grieving deeply.

I wanted you to know that we appreciate this site more than words can ever express to you. I came here many times a day over the last 8 mo & I will continue to do so as long as you keep our Barbaro alive here.

Thank you & bless you.

Thank you Alex for providing us a place to daily check up on Barbaro's daily progress. You were an integral part of legend of Barbaro....

I watched Larry King last night. Mr. Jackson was so nice, he is calm. Mrs.Jackson had my heart you could see her grief, she looked lovely. Her directness on slaughter is to be commended. Dr.Richardson just borke my heart, you could hear and see his pain. I hope they all heal, but Barbaro will never be forgotten he gave so much of himself, and left so much behind.

Dr Richardson on CBS this morning choaked me up again. He is so empty with out as he says the horse.

Barbaro was truly Americas horse. I feel that he should be buried where people can visit his gravesite just like Man O War in Kentucky. His name will never die because the FOBS wont let it. Jen

I'm still suffering so much. Much thanks to all of you who tried to comfort me yesterday after reading my long post. My sadness is not any better though, and I do know that the first reaction -- especially when a death is unexpected -- is complete SHOCK. And in the subsequent days, grief can, and usually does get worse before it gets better, b/c REALITY is setting in, and the FINALITY of the death hits you squarely in the face. So if some of you are feeling worse than you did on Monday, that's why. I've hardly eaten or slept since Monday. All through the night I've been reading the posts...trying to catch up...and clicking on some of the articles that you all were kind enough to link.

Since I don't have cable TV, it was hard finding out from this board that Larry King was on and I couldn't watch it. But I did go to cnn.com and found a first transcript draft of the show, for which I was extremely grateful.

A statement from Dr. Richardson helped me, because there had been some quotes attributed to Mrs. Jackson, in several articles, that seemed to indicate that Barbaro was not ready to go, which were extremely TROUBLING for me to reconcile.

For ex., she had said in one account: "He was the same, which made it hard. It's just so hard for Dean, and it wasn't great for anybody." And this one: "Dean wanted to think about the options, you know you can always go on," Gretchen Jackson continued. "But it’s when to get out that’s hard, and it was agreed upon to let him go."

Those statements cut right through my heart, b/c they seemed to reinforce my worst fear that Barbaro wasn't really ready to quit, it was just that the humans were running out of options. It sounds too, like Dr. R. wanted to continue to explore other options.

But then I read Dr. Richardson's statement from the transcript of the Larry King Live show, which had some NEW info about how Barbaro was feeling about himself, which Dr. R. had not said on Monday. He had told us during the Press Conf. that Barbaro was "different", but didn't expand on that, like he does in this statement:

RICHARDSON: He was a totally different horse yesterday morning. He had gone through the entire night before for the first time ever, being uncertain of himself, not knowing what to do, not knowing how to get up or down. We tried many things including getting him up and down in a sling.

But he was just -- you have to understand, he was just a completely different horse. For the first time since he had been here, he was in real obvious discomfort. And that wasn't going to be something we were going to tolerate.

It still breaks my heart...poor baby...not knowing what to do...not knowing how to get up or down...Oh, God...why....???

And didn't someone post that they read that Dr. R. saw a "hollow" look in Bobby's eyes?? Where can that statement be found?? Does anyone have a link?

I hurt too, of course, for the Jacksons, Dr. R. (I knew seeing that empty stall would be a nightmare for him), the staff...everyone... b/c I know that the pain will not abate any time soon.

Every day when they go to NBC, with all the flowers, cards, etc., will be an emotional struggle for them. Then during the Triple Crown, and on the anniversary of his death next year...Dr. R. and his staff will be forced to relive the pain all over again. And so will we, I'm sure.

I'm wondering if the fence at NBC will begin to resemble the one at Graceland. Barbaro surely has as many fans as Elvis does -- maybe MORE! And Elvis' fans have never forgotten him and still miss him terribly (I'm one of them). And Barbaro's fans will never forget him either.

I think too, of all the children, whose parents now have to try to explain the inexplicable. I can hear them now: "But why, Mommie...why Daddy...did Barbaro have to die??" And the little child in all of us is asking the same unanswerable question.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I don't know if anyone has mentioned this article entitled: THANK YOU, BARBARO. It's from: www.thehorse.com. It has quotes from Dr. Scott Palmer, the Veterinarian who prepared Barbaro for transport to NBC from the track. It's incredible what they did and how swiftly they moved. And how there was sort of a caravan of State Police, at each State border, handing Barbaro's Ambulance over to the next State. Wow! Just like a true DIGNITARY! (which makes it all the sadder to have ultimately lost him, despite perfectly coordinated efforts to save him.)

And once again in this article, we read of how Barbaro helped his doctors by knowing what to do. Here's an excerpt:

"He took care of himself right down the track from the start" when he was injured, recalled Palmer. "He crabbed down the track sideways to protect himself.

"He handled himself well" throughout the ordeal, Palmer said in a low voice. "He was patient with all of us trying to help him. He was calm. He was a classy horse, and he took care of himself. He helped us help him. He deserved the opportunity to live."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I think the shock would have been a little less for us -- not much less -- but a little bit less, if NBC had given us an update about the appearance of L in his two front feet. We would have known it was over...even before the announcement was made. That knowledge would have braced us for the worst possible outcome. Instead, we knew only of the application of the external brace with the pins, and then the news that he "didn't have a great night"...then, out of left field, we got....BARBARO WAS EUTHANIZED AT 10:30 AM!!!

That makes it EXTRA hard to believe...even 48 hours later.

Thank You Alex, Thank You Hennegan Brothers.
Oh that WHINNY, a celestial sound from above, it will be my favorite song from now on.

Renee, I have been asking, but no one is answering. Do you know if Barbaro has been cremated?

Ruth

Dale, I too watched and if there is some truth to the theroy that they should be given one more year to develope I think that it should be explored. I also think that the poly or synthetic track should be put in every track, everywhere that thoroughbred horses race. A winning horse makes millions for it's owners and track owners everywhere, it would be the least they could do to protect these beautiful animals. We can still do so much good in his name, and that will be his true legacy. I guess that I should include quarter horses in this also, because the percentage of their breaking down on a track is higher then that of throughbred horses.

I still cry everyday for the Champ, and I know that he is in a better place. He was such a hugh part of my day. First thing in the morning check on Bobby, check again before leaving for work in the afternoon, check again when I get home in the evening. Rejoice when the news was good or Bobby had a good night, worry and concern if the news was not good. The wonderful video of him smiling for the cameras with Dr. R., he brought so much joy to everyone. Those beautiful brown eyes, God I love him. Always will. Run free big boy, kick those back legs they way you used too! We love you.

I actually love the idea of a horse museaum in Pa. for his final resting place, it would be close to the Jackson's and it would offer us the option of going there to honor him. It would also honor other horse's from that area and I think Bobby would like that.

I forgot, the video from the Hennegans is great. I love Barbaro sending kisses or talking. It was adorable. He was so silly.

###

When Jack Hanna talked about horses not being drugged or mistreated that much anymore...wrong...if I am correct...correct me please...

Tennesse Walkers in Shelbyville the past summer...closed one night because someone had done wrong awful things to a horse's hooves to make the horse step higher.

Like Jack Hanna said...there are the good eggs and the bad eggs...

We have to pass the Barbaro Bill, the anti-horse slaughter bill.

Rescues, retirement homes, education, maybe look at horses being older before running, I do not know the answers...but we all can do something for the name of Barbaro..and his legacy will never die...because we will not let it.

But thank God Mrs. Jackson and Bo Derek was so brave and mentioned about horses of all kinds going to slaughter houses, etc...

We have a flame going, and please let us not let one spark go out....

Forever in our burning hearts with love...the undefeated Barbaro...

###

and we think of the horses racing...please do not forget about the greyhounds and others...please...all animals large or small...

This %&^#@ piece of crap for a computer STILL TELLS ME THAT I DONT HAVE REAL MEDIA INSTALLED!!!!!! I just installed it!!!!!!

#######

Ruth, yes Barbaro has been cremated.

Hello all,

I am a daily visitor to this site since May, but not a poster. I want to give a huge thanks to Alex for providing this site to us. The updates and insight on Barbaro have been fantastic! Also like others, I have friends and a family but no one that understands my feelings towards this beautiful horse I have never touched or seen with my own eyes.

I have loved Barbaro since the minute I saw him-there was something about him and as we all know, he was a rare one. When I was about 10 I fell in love with another horse-Ruffian. Back then I didn't know a broken leg meant death, and I was devastated. Now I am feeling those same exact same feelings all over again.

Yesterday I was looking for a sign, something to make me feel better. I thought I saw it in the double rainbow peaking through our gray skies as I drove home from work. But I think I really got it when Larry King read my email on his show last night!! I have much, much more to say to the Jacksons, but instead just wrote a comment into the show for support. I feel almost honored to have heard my name associated with anything to do with Barbaro-I dont' know, weird I guess. I had taped the show while I was getting my 4 & 5 year old girls ready for bed. I'm a regular viewer of his program, but this particular show I did not want my horse-loving girls to see-they know about Barbaro but I have not told them the outcome. They are too young to deal with this, as I was with Ruffian. I watched the tape later and still have not told my husband about it. He knows I am sad but doesn't understand my attachment to this horse and I just can't speak about it right now.

I was dreading Bo Derek being on, knowing she was a horse lover I thought she might be against racing, but was happy to hear she is just a horse lover like the rest of us, and is against slaughter. Mrs. Jackson talked about it too.

Coming to this site has been therapeutic, knowing there are so many others that feel like I do.
Count me in on the bench or whatever we all decide to do in Barbaro's name. We will all get through this together and accomplish getting the anti-slaughter bill passed and who knows what else!

Love you Barbaro!!

Jenny

Ruth- he has been cremated

Got this yesterday from Michelle. I think you better read this. The anti-slaughter bill will be no good if we dont keep our horses inside our own borders.
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What you might want to know is that Beltex has closed and all horses are going to their new plant already operating in MX. Quite capable of handling alot of horses. Also, Dallas Crown temp. at minimum level but expect to have it as temporary. Their new plant is expected to be ready in 2 mo. They had seen the writing on the wall and built these plants which I am told were over a million $$. So they obviously expect to do what it takes to get U.S. horses - even if it is illegal. The transport bill has got to cover all loopholes and back it up with more than a small fine if found guilty. Unless it really hurts them in the pocketbook (meaning literally hundreds of thousands) or jail time, these KB will continue to risk it. They have alot of money to be made that they will otherwise not have the ability to make. This info is what I have been told by reliable sources.

This information needs to strengthen our resolve and "spread the word" even more about this horrific practice. This has to END.

Thanks for all you are doing to try and make that happen.

Michelle

Hi Ruth,
I don't know that. I know the Jackson's said last night they hadn't made up their minds about where Barbaro will be burried yet. Just weigh what you read. The best info is from Alex and the Jackson's.

Where did the information on his cremation come from?

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Ruth..thanks for your comforting words. Dear God, if we feel this way I can't even begin to imagine how the Jackson's, Dr. R., and everyone else who had contact with Barbaro feels.
It's heartbreaking, it's just totally heartbreaking.
The tears are flowing again.

Hello anyone, I'm trying to watch the Hennegan video but I can't get past loading. Is there something else you have to do, I've hit all buttons I see, but it's still not working. \

Appreciate any help.

Thanks

Thanks, Renee. I had picked up the word cremation from a couple of posts this morning, but maybe those people had misinformation. I really hope that he is not or has not been cremated and that his entire body is buried like Secretariat.

Thank you, Alex.

Hugs,

Susan

Ruth,
The cremation would be his whole body. Not just the head,heart and hooves. I like that better.