Therapy Pony Suffers Medical Emergency, Community Rallies Around Owners

WEST FRIENDSHIP, MD — A popular pony is on the mend after experiencing a medical emergency several days ago.

Cash, a lesson and therapy pony based in West Friendship, underwent surgery last week after a sudden and severe colic episode, according to owner Hannah Balas, who set up a GoFundMe to help offset expenses.

"In 2019, we brought home a little pony from an auction who no one else saw much in. We saw something different — and over the years, he has proven us right in every way. He became a cornerstone of our lesson and therapy program. He is the steady first ride for nervous beginners, the patient teacher for tiny hands learning to hold reins and the safe place for children who need connection more than anything else. He has helped build confidence, regulation, resilience and joy for so many families," Balas wrote.

After rushing Cash to the veterinary, surgeons discovered a strangulating lipoma had compromised 10 to 13 feet of his small intestine. His only chance at survival was to resect that portion of his intestine, Balas said.

After emerging successfully from surgery, Balas told Patch that Cash is on the mend.

"He’s doing much better. The hospital has him up to full feeding today so he is eating hay and grain and passing manure which is fantastic! They’re weaning his meds down and he was able to stop his antibiotics so he’s making great progress," Balas said.

However, the cost of surgery, his medication, recovery and related expenses caught Balas and her family off guard. They were given an estimate of upwards of $24,000. Balas and everyone who loves Cash would agree that every penny spent on saving Cash's life is worth it.

"If you’ve ever watched a child leave the barn standing taller because of him, if he has ever helped your family, or if you simply believe that animals like him are worth fighting for — we would be deeply grateful for your support," Balas said. "As a family, we have quietly weathered more than most in recent years — significant chronic medical diagnoses, lost income, and unexpected life changes. We have white-knuckled our way through it all without asking for help. But this pony is one of a kind. He is not replaceable. And this time, we cannot carry it alone."

While support for Cash's medical bills is much appreciated by his family, the prayers are even more welcome, Balas noted.

"Every donation, every share, every prayer matters. He has given so much. We are doing everything we can to give him his chance," she said.

The GoFundMe set up for Cash is close to reaching its $20,000 goal, but has a bit more to go. You can find the GoFundMe here.