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 ~