Haven, known to many as a 'miracle baby' turned 21 years old on March 23rd. Haven's conception and survival after birth has been the subject of many discussions among veterinarians and breeders alike. A third ovulation in an aged mare Haven was supposed to become a transfered embryo but remained in his donor mom, Firemist, beating the odds on almost every level possible. We honor Haven who proved that OCD need not be a career ender as the premature fellow was actually born with the disease due to his dam's advanced uterine degradation. He also was diagnosed with both renal and liver insufficiency and was half normal birth-rate, but managed to thrive against all odds. We still joke about the 17+ hand gelding who was suposed to be "unsound, insane, and never to mature over 14 hands." He is the reason we diligently studied developmental joint disease and I credit him with helping to assure other foals in our own and many other breeding programs would escape the pitfalls of this common condition. While Haven's situation was unique and may not have been preventable, the education we received while attempting to manage his growth and development can be applied to all foals. Haven also went on to have a successful career in dressage, to be a search and rescue equine, and even a therapeutic riding horse in his long and unexpected career before retiring from sport at age 18 to enjoy the remainder of his days raising 'his' foals. Thank you, dear boy, for reminding us all to handle adversity with grace and perseverence and that patience, faith, and a little science can truly combine to work miracles. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
