Terrible Shock
It’s hard to believe, even now. Twenty-four hours after presenting us with a healthy baby girl, Cody Impressed Me - our beloved mare Banjo - suffered a prolapsed uterus and was humanely euthanized early this morning.
She and the filly were fine at 2am when Pat checked on the pair. But at 6 am morning feeding, Pat found Banjo lying in the stall, shocky, and already beginning to show signs of septicimia. There was no decision to make - just a matter of waiting for the vet to come.
Banjo’s last day on earth was a happy one. She and her newborn daughter spent the whole day outside in the sunshine and warm air, wandering the pasture, testing the filly’s legs, and sharing wisdom that all too soon would be gone. She gave her daughter a good and solid start in life — the filly is strong, healthy, and courageous. If she grows up to be half the mare her mother was, she will be a tremendous individual.
We buried Banjo in the ravine down by the pond. It’s a fitting place for her soul to rest, and it gives us comfort to know that her resting place is one of peace, green grass, and blue skies.
Good speed, girl. We’ll meet again at the bridge. Until then, we’ll hold the trust you’ve left us in your daughter with strong and steady hands and hope that you approve of the mare she grows up to be.
Thank you, Banjo, for sharing your life with us. Thank you for loving us back.
