Cameron: The Spirit of Ashton Ridge

January 1992 - February 2003

A Celebration of one horse's life

I will never forget the very second my life was changed forever; the moment I got that phone call informing me that my beloved friend of 8 years was suffering from colic. The drive to the farm seemed like an eternity. I thought of the long night ahead, walking him for hours, sitting by his side. Never for a second did I think I would be saying good-bye. The moment I pulled in the driveway and looked into his eyes, I knew life as I had become to know it would never be the same.

"Cameron" as he became known to all, had quite the reputation to those who knew him. From an emaciated and sickly two year old, I saw for the first time a glimpse of something great, something only I could see. Many thought I was crazy and questioned whether this project was worth the effort, I on the other hand never did. He was perfect to me in more ways than one and he quickly became what my life revolved around. My whole childhood was consumed by Cameron and his needs, nothing was ever too good or too much for him and he rewarded me in more ways than I could ever know and only now can I truly appreciate.
From an ugly duckling, this guy blossomed into himself and everywhere he went you couldn't help but notice him.This once gangly and awkward Thoroughbred now entered the dressage and show ring with elegance and grace. Although Cameron was scared of his own shadow (and pretty much everything else around him) he never lost confidence in me and trusted my judgment wholeheartedly.It has been 42 days since I reluctantly nodded my approval to say farewell, and only now can I write this down. I wonder if the images of that day will ever leave my thoughts and I can only pray they will be overshadowed by the wonderful memories he has given me. He was more than a pet or a friend, he represented a time in my life when all was innocent and good. A time when worries were replaced by long rides down a hayfield and stress was melted away by his soft nuzzle. How does one replace such a void in their life? There is only one answer....they don't. For now I am left with the comfort of knowing he is in a greater place and that I was truly blessed to have had the pleasure of having such a special friend.

 

 

Immortal Beloved: In Memory of Cameron

by Jim Landry

1

Through dank and darkness, beyond words can tell His gauntly appearance, an emaciated shell
A horse uncared, unwanted and unheeded
Broke in the light, and then receded

2

Ashamed and afraid, no one would care
He cautiously moved, as if to dare
Robbed of body and spirit, the care he needed
His eyes told true, he had conceded

3

No love could come, to one such as I
Yet wait…….,I see it in her eyes
Born not of pity, but a heart so true
A tender touch, I seldom knew

4

Frail of body, yet tall and gray
A young girls heart, he stole that day
A noble heart, a friend so true
A spirit crushed, in need of you

5

A gentle hand, a few kind words
Was all that needed, to be heard
Love and patience, transcending time
In silent bond, three hearts entwined

6

In body and spirit, his strength renewed
Tall and true, we watched, he grew
Like time and tide, the years went by
The joy of giving, was in his eyes
A faithful friend, known far and wide
To all who knew, this gray with pride

 

 

7

Alas the day, hung heavy and somber
When death came calling, and in its hunger
Chose one so special, amidst his prime
So fast, so soon before his time

8

The hour two had yet arrived
In painful throes, relief deprived
His last deep moan, they seem to say
I love you all, but I cant stay

9

Torrents of tears, this gray we shed
With no regrets, it can be said
The ties that bind, remains unbroken
A lock of mane, as lasting token

10

Silence lingered, and with heavy heart
I swore this day, and with a start
My ears perceived, a distance beat
The sound of hooves, in full retreat

11

Amongst the clouds, misshapen and gray
I thought I saw…….I dare not say
A form, a likeness of one so dear
I knew just then, it came so clear

12

Wild and free, his spirit rose
To meet with others, nose on nose
In silent chorus, they charged ahead
Left alone, our tears to shed

13

Though time has ways , of easing pain
His gentle heart., will long remain
The desire of others, in him they covet
This gentle horse, IMMORTAL BELOVED

Thank-You

We would like to sincerely thank everyone who phoned or sent cards, your kind words helped immensely during this very long month. A special thank you to Corinne and Vernon Lounsbury, who 8 years ago, opened their facility to a young girl with 2 horses and a limited budget. Some of our most special moments with Cameron were there at Sugar Suite Stable.

Thanks to Michelle Cox of Springbrook Stables who built him a box stall in only one weekend due to an unexpected move from another facility.

A sincere thank you to Jodi Fawcett who took amazing care of him while I was busy planning a wedding and away for a new job. And most of all thanks to the barn gang who knew how much he meant to us and we cherish your friendship every day.

A special note of thanks to Randy Hayward of Prairie Schooner Equine Services whose professionalism and compassion helped us through a very difficult time.

Yours truly,

Nicole & Roberta