The HERO Portrait Series ~ H.O.P.E. Acres Rescue and Tracey Sawyer

Earlier in the summer, shortly after I moved to Charleston, I was fortunate enough to meet a group of people who rescue horses. Right-Horses. I guess I didn't give too much thought before I met them to the fact that horses (like any other animal) are subject to abuse, neglect, and encounter problems through no fault of their own. But they do-and on a grand scale sometimes. I got invited to the farm to take some pictures, and meet some of the horses and the volunteers. I met Tracey Sawyer, the president of the rescue. To hear her speak about her vision, and what this work  means to her might bring your tears-I know it did me. Pictured here with Pistol, a recent rescue, she tells us her story, and why this labor of love is her HERO.

Tracey writes~

"It was a beautiful winter morning when, God himself impressed upon me a vision so 

clear, so concise. This would be my purpose, my calling, if you will. Without question 

or suitable experience, but with vigor, excitement and a new found zeal for life, I 

accepted his instruction. With His guidance and a lot of faith, H.O.P.E. Acres Rescue 

was born that spring of 2010. While the concept and the lives impacted, both human 

and equine, have frequently moved me to tears, I have been equally as touched to learn 

from these animals how precious life is and what living is truly about. Thus, H.O.P.E. 

Acres Rescue is my “Hero”. 

It only took looking into the eyes of one battered soul to feel just how important 

acceptance is. Having experienced one’s rehabilitation, another’s struggle and the 

release of one last breath, I have been shown just how important love is and how 

forgiveness revives us. I have personally watched their spirits renew, been witness to 

an act of trust and acceptance from a tethered spirit and felt an extension of love from a 

once lonely soul. Each life has touched mine in one way or many. Because of each of 

them, I will always strive to accept, to love, to forgive, to hold dear, to let go, to give 

with passion, and pursue with purpose. Thank you for renewing my spirit and igniting 

passion into my life. I am eternally grateful for your friendship and your love. My heart 

will call home to your memory.  May you always find love, respect and acceptance as 

you gallop across pastures of green."

UPDATE-On December 23, 2013 Pistol crossed the Rainbow Bridge to run free and healthy with all the other animals. The many years of abuse on his body had finally taken their toll and were irreversible.  It was heartbreaking for all involved, but everything that could be done, had been done. RIP sweet boy-you taught us all so much ~

The HERO Portrait Series~ Jessica and Kona

Often times our Heroes are not in human form-as is the case again with our second Hero in the Portrait series~

Meet Kona~and her owner Jessica. Jessica is a young woman who has done much for animals-dogs in particular. And I couldn't let the story of how Kona-one special dog-changed her life. 

Jessica writes-

"When most people talk about their heroes you normally hear about the people in their life or people that are famous that inspire them. Though when you ask someone from the community I am around, you'll quickly see that the Hero in my life is not so unusual. My hero is my dog Kona. Yes, I am part of the "crazy dog people" community; and I am becoming a big part of the rescue community. Kona is not my Hero because of any kind of situations she's overcome in her life, but she's my Hero because of what she has opened my eyes to, taught me and showed other people. Before I had Kona, I had no idea how discriminated against this breed was. I quickly learned of people's emotions toward "pit bull" type dogs, and I was appalled! It's not okay either, my dog is the furthest thing from aggressive. She may not get along well with all other dogs, but she loves people, and is by far the greatest gift In my life. Having her has definitely changed my life for the better. She has taught me about discrimination, and to accept things we may not understand. This applies to everything in my life; people, stereotypes, beliefs, sexual preferences, and animals. Discrimination is everywhere, and it should not be so common, but unfortunately it is. Kona is my hero because she shows me that a stereotype is not always accurate, that discrimination hurts so many, and challenges people everyday to be able to live their lives in peace. There are many of us who fight these battles everyday and so many that are the cause. If we have something we are passionate about it gives us a reason to fight and speak out but it should also give us an open mind to help with others struggles. We can help by showing support for other peoples life choices to help end the stereotypes and discrimination.

I've had KONA in my home since she was 6 weeks old and been with her every day since she was 3 days old. She is my everything from being like my child, to my best friend and my Hero. If it weren't for her I wouldn't be where or who I am today; I wouldn't have found my passion. I'm beyond thankful for her, she is my Hero!"

What is a Hero to you?

According to Merriam-Webster-this is the definition~

he·ro

 noun \ˈhir-(ˌ)ō\

: a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities

: a person who is greatly admired

: the chief male character in a story, play, movie, etc.

plural he·roes

Full Definition of HERO

1

a :  a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descentendowed with great strength or ability

b :  an illustrious warrior

c :  a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities

d :  one who shows great courage

2

a :  the principal male character in a literary or dramatic work

b :  the central figure in an event, period, or movement

3

plural usually he·ros :  submarine 2

4

:  an object of extreme admiration and devotion :  idol

So-a Hero could be anyone or anything that embodies great courage or strength to you. That having been said-this is the beginning of my Photo Blog, but more importantly the HERO Portrait Series.  Stay tuned for Heroes and their stories from all walks of life!