Resilience on Four Hooves

By Suzanne Draper

When Marvin, an off-the-track Thoroughbred, suffered a life-altering brain injury, his future seemed uncertain. Most people offered little hope for his recovery, thinking he would never lead a normal life again. But Suzanne Draper refused to give up on the horse she loved, determined to fight for his chance at a new life.

In Resilience on Four Hooves, Suzanne shares the deeply personal and uplifting story of Marvin's journey from the trauma of his accident to his remarkable recovery. With the help of the expert team at the John Thomas Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital at Auburn University, Marvin began a long and challenging path back to health. This journey wasn't easy-setbacks, uncertainty, and difficult decisions marked every step. But through it all, Suzanne's dedication to Marvin never wavered.

This book provides a rare and detailed look at the challenges of caring for a horse with a severe brain injury, offering practical insights for anyone facing similar circumstances. Suzanne details the hands-on process of Marvin's rehabilitation, from his time in intensive care to the careful groundwork and exercises that slowly brought him back to strength. Alongside the medical details, she shares the emotional ups and downs of their journey-moments of doubt, glimmers of progress, and the unshakeable bond that grew even stronger through their shared struggle.

Resilience on Four Hooves is more than a story about Marvin's recovery; it's a testament to the power of hope, the strength of the human-animal bond, and the belief that every life is worth fighting for. This inspiring account will resonate with horse lovers, animal caregivers, and anyone who has faced adversity with courage and determination.