Read Addison's Story ^{(In Memoriam)}

Prior to coming to The Gentle Barn, Addison and his brother were forced to perform manual labor and beaten if they resisted. Finally they were abused so severely that they were confiscated from their tormentor and brought to a donkey rescue. Addison's brother didn't make it. Addison healed physically, but was terrified of everyone and everything. He was brought to The Gentle Barn to heal emotionally. It took about a year and a half to help Addison grieve and show him that he was safe and that he could trust us. He bonded deeply with our miniature horse, Bonsai, and the two of them played chase, tug of war, and wrestled for hours each day. They shared a bedroom and ate and lay side by side each evening. Addisona and Bonsai had both been abused and with their common stories, they bonded deeply and breathed life back into each other. Each day, we would take Addison and Bonsai for walks to eat fresh grass on the trails. In the afternoons, Addison helped youth in foster care or on probation to be authentic and gave them an immediate, affectionate mirror once they succeeded. He helped newly rescued horses and donkeys feel less anxious and fearful as they settled in. He helped other animals grieve and was beloved by everyone, human and non. At The Gentle Barn, Addison found joy, purpose, and peace at long last. Addison passed away in his sleep at the age of twenty-nine of a heart attack. They say all great masters take their leave quickly when it is time and that is fitting for our donkey angel and ambassador. He will forever be loved and missed.