Barbaro ~ America's Horse [Archive] - Page 5

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 11:33 AM

Thanks again to Tim:

Update 256: Jeannine Edwards just called. She is back at New Bolton Center and will be covering Barbaro today and will air on Sports Center at 6 pm (and 11pm). She mentioned she might have an interview with Kathy Anderson.
Update 255: A few random things. Gallant Secret sustained soft tissue damage as far as I am aware (Delaware Handicap). I asked Kathy Anderson about her condition. Career threatening (ending probably) not life threatening. I caught up with Barclay Tagg this morning. He is pointing Showing Up for the Secretariat, a (grade 1 i think) turf race at Arlington Park, early August. Funny Cide may also make his next start at Arlington late July. Barclay expressed a little concern re: the condition of the Arlington track (dirt), and that may impact Funny re: running. Jean left a comment about her visit to Fair Hill saturday, you can see the comment in full below (time: 1:43), here is an excerpt:

At 6 am the fog was heavy, but I-95 traffic from DC was light. I finally found the stable area at Fair Hill, but realized I had no clue how to get the beer to Alex. Two helpful women near the Fair Hill office called his barn and, to my happy surprise, I was told to come down and drop it off.
Once I found the correct barn, I was fortunate enough to meet Penny, Tim Woolley's wife. Penny suggested that I come with her to watch Tim and Alex breeze two horses at the track.

Update 254: It is my understanding that they are planning to change Bobby's cast on his right hind today, and x ray both hind legs (monday). We should hear more about this later I guess, but I wanted to also note that this is likely to occur while Bobby is in a sling, under some form of sedation, rather than having to go completely under as with previous cast changes. Again, I am thinking this from a few conversations I have had this morning, and wanted to relay that the fact they are planning to do all this via the sling should help tremendously. Lets hope we hear positive news from this today. We know he had a comfortable night last night (update 253); but we also know he is in serious condition.

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 17, 2006, 12:00 PM

As always, Thank you VB (and now including Adventurebeachponies) for every update!

VB has been doing a great job of keeping the forum updated but must have been sleeping in this morning (well deserved for many, many weeks of quick updates!) ... I know many of you check the board frequently and so I cut and pasted the updates.

What a great guy Tim is for tracking this down several times a day for us and for Barbaro's friends, owners and vet staff to accomidate the fans need to know.

Thanks again VB for all you have been doing in keeping us posted.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 12:01 PM

Updated: July 17, 2006, 9:27 AM ET

From ESPN.com

Barbaro still stable, but condition yet to improve

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. -- Barbaro's vital signs, appetite and heart rate remained normal Monday, though there was no indication the Kentucky Derby winner's condition has improved since a grim prognosis by his veterinarian last week.
The colt, who had 80 percent of his left rear hoof wall removed last week, still faces the same tough odds to survive a severe case of laminitis and a reconstructed right hind leg.
For the fourth straight day, Dr. Dean Richardson said Barbaro's condition remained stable.
"He had a restful night last night," Richardson said Monday on "Good Morning America." "That's really how we're assessing him each night as whether or not he gets up and down and sleeps well and then when he gets up that he eats normally. His vital signs are all good. He had a very good night last night. His heart rate is absolutely normal. He's eating well. If you were to see him, you'd think he's a fairly comfortable, happy horse. But his pain is being intensively managed."
Richardson, who has treated Barbaro since the colt shattered his right hind leg a few yards after the start of the Preakness Stakes on May 20, said the best case scenario is still "many months of very extensive medical care and rehabilitation."
Assistant trainer Peter Brette emerged after a Sunday morning visit to the intensive care unit and said the colt "is in a good frame of mind."
"He was bright," Brette added. "He sort of at least had a bit of sparkle in his eye."
Brette, who exercised the colt daily for trainer Michael Matz, has been visiting Barbaro almost every day since Barbaro was injured.
"We're still very worried," Brette added, "but it's very good for me to go in and see him like this."
Barbaro has casts on both rear limbs. The cast on the colt's right hind has been changed at least four times in the last two weeks at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals. A smaller cast is on the left rear hoof, and the bandages protecting it were changed Saturday, and are likely to be changed again in the coming days.
On Wednesday, veterinarians performed a procedure to remove most of the hoof wall in Barbaro's left rear leg to combat the laminitis, a painful, often-fatal foot disease usually caused by uneven weight distribution in the limbs. The disease could appear in another limb at any time, and if it does, it would likely result in the horse being humanely destroyed.
Barbaro has been listed in stable condition since Friday, the day after Richardson said the colt had laminitis "as bad as it gets" and termed his chance of survival poor.
While Barbaro's condition is being constantly monitored, it was a relatively quiet weekend around the New Bolton Center. Residents and interns tended to their rounds, checking on the many other animals in their care. One resident said he's treating two goats in the stall next to Barbaro's.
Homemade signs that implored the colt to keep fighting and that they would keep believing continued to be posted on the fence near the hospital's entrance. Other signs thanked Dr. Richardson and his staff while one read "God Bless Barbaro. Hang in There!" with a single red rose taped next to the message.
A couple from Hershey, Pa., made a side trip to the hospital and left a get-well card at the front desk before heading to the races at nearby Delaware Park.
"So many people are rooting for Barbaro to make it -- he was going to be our Triple Crown winner," Dawn Templin said a few minutes after admiring the get-well cards, flowers and fruit baskets on display in the lobby. "We came here to leave a card, and just see the place where they're trying to save his life."

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 12:08 PM

Adventurebeach.................................... ........Sleeping In???????

Certainly you jest! I had to have my Mom at a hospital for a procedure by 7am. Nice thought, however...........................sigh.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 12:09 PM

Update 257: Looking at a few of the articles on Barbaro today. This ABC article: Barbaro's Condition Is Still Stable (http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=2201075) confirms Bobby had a good night last night. The following is an excerpt:

"He had a restful night last night," Richardson said Monday on "Good Morning America." "That's really how we're assessing him each night as whether or not he gets up and down and sleeps well and then when he gets up that he eats normally. His vital signs are all good. He had a very good night last night. His heart rate is absolutely normal. He's eating well. If you were to see him, you'd think he's a fairly comfortable, happy horse. But his pain is being intensively managed."

This philly.com article: Sparkle in Barbaro's eye makes hearts skip a beat (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/15054045.htm) was a result of an interview with Peter Brette directly after his visit with Bobby yesterday. Peter mentioned he was meeting someone from the media, who he said was awesome in his coverage of this situation (he mentioned this to me before this piece was printed). I liked this excerpt:

"He was galloping around one day and someone comes by, and he went to take off on me," Brette said. "It was like, if you've ever driven a Porsche and put your foot down, and it bumps you right up... . That's what he did. I said, 'Good God, he's getting stronger and stronger.' "
And then there was Barbaro's breeze the weekend before the Kentucky Derby that was the talk of Churchill Downs.
"He went down the straight in three strides," Brette said. "I pulled up and said to Michael, 'This will win the Derby.' Then his phone just started to ring nonstop. Before he got off the track, he got six phone calls. There was one guy that came over, a guy that sits in the stands. All he does is he looks at horses and clocks horses. He told Michael, 'That was the best horse to breeze at Churchill Downs for at least five years.' "

I remember reading about Barbaro's final work and thinking it must have been too fast. Little did I know we are talking about Bobby!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 02:11 PM

Update 258: New Bolton Press Release today: Barbaro stable, comfortable with foot cast (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update7-17.htm):

Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson reports today that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's vital signs are good and that he had another quiet, restful night. "He remains in stable condition, and he is eating well," said Dr. Richardson. "We continue to manage his pain successfully, and he is alert."
Barbaro is tolerating his right hind leg cast well; this cast supports the repair of the injury suffered at the Preakness on May 20. To treat a severe case of laminitis in the colt's left rear hoof, last week Dr. Richardson and his surgical team performed a hoof wall resection that removed 80 percent of the hoof. Doctors then applied a modified fiberglass foot cast to protect the hoof; this foot cast will be changed as needed so that the hoof can be treated and watched for signs of infection. The foot cast is rigid and provides greater stability and support than a bandage.
"It is important for people to understand that this is not a 'routine' laminitis. The care involved in treating a hoof with this degree of compromise is complex," said Dr. Richardson.

No word on whether the right hind cast was changed (as I noted in update 254). Will try to get insight on that later. A couple of comments from our friends at the Kennett Florists:

Hi, this is Annie from Kennett Florist. I wanted to let you all know that I just returned from New Bolton Center and as promised, asked one of Barbaro's doctors about the benefits of corn husks. She said that corn husks have to be extremely fresh and broken into very small pieces to be fed to him, and that they were given to him only for a special treat by Mrs. Jackson. Also, spoke briefly with Dr. Richardson and he said that Barbaro is feeling good today. Someone else asked if I could find out from the staff what kind of goodies they would like in their gift baskets. They all said chocolate, cookies & baked goods.

and

I also wanted to let you all know that we are putting together a sort of "fund" for those who want to send something to Bobby, but don't have the means. (Let me preempt this with -- I am by NO MEANS trying to solicit business.) There have been numerous inquiries, so I thought it would be best if I addressed them here and it would meet a more broader spectrum. It's getting hard to keep up with the emails and messages. Many people have called saying they want to send something, but can only afford $5 or $10 dollars. So, if anyone wants to contribute to a basket of goodies for Bobby or the NBC staff, you can send us a check with your message to Bobby, Dr. R., staff, etc (not too long, please) and we will send it over when we have enough for a Basket of treats. Hope this is helpful!

Lookout

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:05 PM

Updated: July 17, 2006, 9:27 AM ET

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. -- Barbaro's vital signs, appetite and heart rate remained normal Monday, though there was no indication the Kentucky Derby winner's condition has improved since a grim prognosis by his veterinarian last week.
The colt, who had 80 percent of his left rear hoof wall removed last week, still faces the same tough odds to survive a severe case of laminitis and a reconstructed right hind leg.

The pseudo-medical updates are sooooooooooo frustrating. What kind of improvement does anyone expect? It takes a year for a whole new hoof wall to grow in, so what do they expect to see in 24 hrs if 80% of his hoof wall is gone? I can't help but wonder if they are dumbing it down for the public, it gets totally lost in translation by the press, or they themselves don't understand.

eggbutt

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:09 PM

I also wanted to let you all know that we are putting together a sort of "fund" for those who want to send something to Bobby, but don't have the means. (Let me preempt this with -- I am by NO MEANS trying to solicit business.) There have been numerous inquiries, so I thought it would be best if I addressed them here and it would meet a more broader spectrum. It's getting hard to keep up with the emails and messages. Many people have called saying they want to send something, but can only afford $5 or $10 dollars. So, if anyone wants to contribute to a basket of goodies for Bobby or the NBC staff, you can send us a check with your message to Bobby, Dr. R., staff, etc (not too long, please) and we will send it over when we have enough for a Basket of treats. Hope this is helpful!

Super great idea! Mailing address?

I really got scared today when I heard/read a comment that Dr Richardson has said if Bobby shows signs of laminitis in one of his front feet that will be it and the decision will be made to put him down. I certainly don't know if what I heard was correct or reported out of context but it sent shivers down my spine. I understand but it's still so, so sad to come this far and......well, many of us have been down this road too many times.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:46 PM

Update 259: This Forbes article quotes Kathy Anderson after her visit today, this afternoon: Barbaro's Condition Still Stable (http://www.forbes.com/entrepreneurs/feeds/ap/2006/07/17/ap2884112.html), excerpt:

"He has learned how to adapt his posture to the sling so he can benefit from the most comfort," Dr. Kathleen Anderson, Barbaro's attending vet when the horse was racing and stabled in trainer Michael Matz's barn at the Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Md., told The Associated Press after a visit.
"He's learning how to almost dog sit, which is good because it takes the weight off the front legs which is, of course, our next great concern."
Anderson left a mid-afternoon visit feeling good about the way the colt was looking. But while medical reports were encouraging for the fourth straight day, she said Barbaro's prognosis was still serious.
"The reality is, you have to say poor at this point in time," she said. "It doesn't mean it's hopeless and I think that's the big difference."

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:48 PM

Kennett Florist Inc
405 W State St, Kennett Square, PA 19348
www.kennettflorist.net (http://www.kennettflorist.net)

Local: 610-444-6040

DMK

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:49 PM

The pseudo-medical updates are sooooooooooo frustrating. What kind of improvement does anyone expect? It takes a year for a whole new hoof wall to grow in, so what do they expect to see in 24 hrs if 80% of his hoof wall is gone? I can't help but wonder if they are dumbing it down for the public, it gets totally lost in translation by the press, or they themselves don't understand.

???? Who doesn't understand? New Bolton? Or the press? (It goes without saying the press doesn't understand, and if the writer did, you know the editor didn't)

A medical update is what it is - how things are today. In that regard, they are doing a great job, and thye have always talked about the key indicators of the moment. And not once have the indicated that today's good report has any bearing on tomorrow.

I'm sure at some point someone has explained to some writer how theoretical treatment will progress under various scenarios of laminitis, but the average NBC, ESPN, NYT reader isn't interested in that detail. Hell, a lot of horse people aren't interested. This is like talking heat shield engineering on space shuttles. Most of us just want to know if the damn things are still on and is re-entry safe.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 03:52 PM

Barbaro's will to stay alive live is worth celebrating
courier-journel.com

He should be dead by now, and we know that.
We just don't like admitting it because morbid thoughts scare and depress us. We'd rather hold onto Barbaro's life than submit to his demise. It's a most human sentiment and a proper one, too.
But in order for us to appreciate this horse right now, we have to look at the dark side. It shows us how much of a champion Barbaro remains. It shows us his strength. It shows us that his willingness to confront death, to fend off death, surpasses any dominant achievement he had on the track.

Poor Barbaro? Yes, but how about more Barbaro?
Keep going. Keep battling. Keep showing us even more than we knew you had.

What's harder? Winning the Kentucky Derby by 61/2 lengths or surviving for eight weeks while being required to prop 1,200 pounds on a shattered right hind leg?
Ever sprained your ankle and tried to stand on it for hours and hours, days and days, until it healed? Didn't think so. For the most part that has been Barbaro's assignment since he hurt the leg during the Preakness Stakes on May 20; only his injury is way more painful and his girth way more problematic.

A survivor
Eight weeks ago we heard doctors say any other horse would've been put down instead of having surgery to insert 27 screws and a titanium plate on a delicate limb.
Eight weeks later Barbaro is still fighting.
Four days ago we heard Dean Richardson, Barbaro's chief surgeon, describe how the colt had developed a severe case of the potentially fatal laminitis in his left hind leg, his good leg, and faced "long shot" odds of survival.
Four days later Barbaro is holding steady.
Every day is the same perilous struggle, and there's no clear timetable for relief. His dilemma just keeps rewinding itself.
"We monitor his condition very closely because signs can change quickly," Dr. Richardson said in a release Friday. "However, it's important to remember that Barbaro's treatment could easily continue for several weeks and, if all goes well, even months. Our goal is to keep him as comfortable as possible, and clearly that comfort level will be a major indicator for our treatment decisions."
There are so many things that could go wrong. If Barbaro develops laminitis in another foot, he'd likely be euthanized because the pain would be too much. It might become too painful even without a spreading of laminitis.
He should be dead. But he continues to live. He continues to impress.

There's a positive
Thoughts of what a healthy Barbaro could've accomplished do not matter anymore. What he's accomplishing seals his legacy as talented and tough.
He's teaching us something about horse racing, too. We appropriately put considerable emphasis on what went wrong and how the sport needs to challenge itself on safety issues. But Barbaro's not going to be remembered as a champion who showed us the ugly side of horse racing.
His story is showing us the heart of this sport. We're discovering why we love animals so much. We're appreciating how special it is just to watch a racehorse compete and walk away healthy.
All athletes put their bodies in danger every time they play. But when we see LeBron James or Tom Brady writhing in pain, our thoughts don't immediately wander to death. They do with horses.
I can still hear the screams of a woman at Pimlico Race Course when Barbaro pulled up lame. She cried and yelled and jumped over a rail to yell more. She knew the morbid possibilities.
Barbaro dismissed death that day. He's dismissed death for 58 straight days now.
Can he continue? I don't know. But it sure is amazing to watch him try.

Jerry Brewer, author

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 04:09 PM

Continued thanks to Alex & Tim:

Update 260: Just recieved a voice-mail from Kathy Anderson. I guess I need to start camping out at New Bolton so I can beat the AP to a story (update 259)! Anyway, Kathy confirmed her positive visit with Barbaro today. She said he was very bright, eating voraciously as he does when he is in good form. She said the cast change is scheduled within the next 24 hours (as of 1 pm today); it had not occured as of her visit. When she visited he was in his sling developing a new learned behaviour, almost similar to a child in jolly jumper (her words, I am not sure what this is). It seems to be some kind of energy release, boing around his stall a little bit. This was characterized by Kathy as a positive activity!
I was browsing quickly through the site stats (http://www.sitemeter.com/?a=stats&s=sm6timwoolley&r=0) and saw a referer from horsehats (http://horsehats.com/Barbaro.html). So they have this site linked for Barbaro Updates (cool, will help with our SEO). Anyway, I e-mailed them and asked them when they were releasing a hat that contributed to the Barbaro Fund (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/giving/giving_ways.html). They are close to doing this (mentioned some legal and license stuff), but also mentioned that their current hat also contributes some (small) amount to the fund.
The guy who e-mailed me said they had not publicized this as they did not want to be seen to be exploiting the situation. I can empathize with that sentiment. This site now gets a crazy amount of visits (likely 15k today). It would be easy to add some ads (thanks to google, and no doubt horsehats would appear) but we also do not want to have a hint of issue that we are doing this for any other reason than purely because we want to help get the word out about a horse people LOVE. Of course Horse Hats has to make money selling hats (that's their business model); ours is training racehorses, so we do not have to worry about that, as long as the site does not cost us anything (and thanks to Eliza (http://www.olivetreemedia.co.uk/) that has been the case thus far, she is also a horse person.)

eggbutt

Jul. 17, 2006, 04:10 PM

Profound WOW! The Jerry Brewer article really sums up a whole lot of emotions.

Thank you again as always VB!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 04:20 PM

As posted by eggbutt:
"Profound WOW! The Jerry Brewer article really sums up a whole lot of emotions."

I completely agree. Jerry Brewer GETS IT. :yes:

Best article I've read in a while!

tullio

Jul. 17, 2006, 04:32 PM

love the jerry brewer article!!! nice to see something a little more positive and optimistic.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 04:46 PM

Update 261: Just spoke with Jeannine Edwards. ESPN Sports Center will have a one minute clip tonight, it will include a sound bite of Dr. Anderson, as well as content learned from interviewing Kathy, some of the GMA content and other material. Some of the content will be similar to update 260. Jeannine also mentioned she e-mailed the person in charge of media platforms at ESPN (I think that is what she said) and asked if they could put her entire interview with Michael Matz online (5 minutes, as opposed to the small piece she could use in her update yesterday). That is now supposed to be happening. Now that is cool!
Today is the last day to day coverage from ESPN unless something significant occurs.

War Admiral

Jul. 17, 2006, 06:56 PM

When she visited he was in his sling developing a new learned behaviour, almost similar to a child in jolly jumper (her words, I am not sure what this is). It seems to be some kind of energy release, boing around his stall a little bit. This was characterized by Kathy as a positive activity!

Did everybody miss this part?? ROFL!!!! Can't you just see him sitting in that sling going BOING, BOING, BOING - "Whoa, cooooooolllllll!" - BOING, BOING...

This, ladies and gentlemen, is why I don't think this horse is ready to go yet. First he learned how to use the sling for its intended purpose - now he's investigating what other entertainment potential it may offer.

Go Barbaro. You totally rock.

Oakstable

Jul. 17, 2006, 07:15 PM

Does Bobby have any full siblings? He's the best looking TB I have seen in a long time!!!

Is his mother still alive?

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 07:35 PM

Oh Yes!!!

Her name is La Ville Rouge, and she has a full brother by her side now, and has been bred back to Dynaformer!

Little bro is a Bobby look alike!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 17, 2006, 07:36 PM

Update 263: Annie, from Kennett Florist left this comment, in response to a few people's concern with the strain shown by Dr. Richardson in footage today:

Mary, yes I did she Dr. Richardson, spoke to him, he said that Bobby was feeling pretty good today. As I said, Dr. Richardson was smiling the whole time we spoke and although he is definately tired he is very positive. Also saw Dr. Andersen and spoke with her. She is positive as well, said that Bobby is eating well and seemed content today.
I really believe that they have all faith that he is getting well, after the hours and days and weeks and pressure they've been under, they are still smiling...that has to be truth!
Annie
KF

Update 262: The following is an excerpt of a transcript from Good Morning America, this morning (monday morning):

Robin: But it's good to hear his spirits are good.
Dr R: yes, um I mean..they say one of the most important things that we're assessing is really this subjective appearance of the horse, right now I don't think anyone could look at this horse and be really interested in not going on, because he looks that BRIGHT AND HAPPY. (caps again added by me).
Robin:That's great news to hear. I know that you're very cautious. Just last week you said that the chances of Barbaro surviving were very poor.
Dr R: People want to hear the best and I understand that. But the reality is wer're not talking about a day to day type of a problem at this point. Really what we're talking about now is going to be ah ah even at the absolute best case scenario is going to be many months of very extensive medical care and rehabilitation.

The complete transcript, provided by Margaret, can be found in Barbaro Update: 11 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_10.php#comments), with the timestamp: Posted by: Margaret at July 17, 2006 05:15 PM.
The Sports Center coverage tonight covered much of what we know. All in all its been another good day for Bobby, lets hope we see many similar days ahead. Talking about long roads ahead, Mike Rea also seems to be progressing in the right direction (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/2006/07/day-of-rest.html).

ASB Stars

Jul. 17, 2006, 08:15 PM

You know, you only have to give up once. Just once.

To continue requires a type of courage- every single day- that is difficult to define, however, we have learned, it is easier to see, and awesome to behold. It gives us pause. It causes us to be concious of powers greater than our own.

You simply have to look at Michael Matz, Dean Richardson...and, most of all Barbaro himself.

If theirs isn't the essence and embodiment of courage and commitment, I would have to wonder...how would you define it?

msj

Jul. 17, 2006, 08:53 PM

War Admiral posted:

"Did everybody miss this part?? ROFL!!!! Can't you just see him sitting in that sling going BOING, BOING, BOING - "Whoa, cooooooolllllll!" - BOING, BOING...

This, ladies and gentlemen, is why I don't think this horse is ready to go yet. First he learned how to use the sling for its intended purpose - now he's investigating what other entertainment potential it may offer."

:yes: :yes: :yes: :D

I spit iced tea all over my monitor cause I was thinking the same thing! I think this is not only a very smart horse, but one with a sense of humor as well!

If ANYTHING needs to be televised, it's Barbaro BOINGING around his stall in his sling!!!! :yes:

Fancy

Jul. 17, 2006, 09:03 PM

If ANYTHING needs to be televised, it's Barbaro BOINGING around his stall in his sling!!!! :yes:

I agree! Forget about the Mid-east--I wanna see Bobby BOINGING!
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

sid

Jul. 17, 2006, 09:05 PM

Jerry Brewer's article just takes my breath away and brings me to tears, as does all the wonderful dialogue on this thread. He sums up, so very succinctly, that which is within horses that draws us to them and strikes at the very core for the reason that I have chosen to live and have them as the major part of my life for the last 2 decades. You're absolutely right... he "gets it".

Barbaro, as an individual, has shown us that sheer will to live and thrive can overcome catastrophic bodily damage. Maybe not forever, but for this horse to have survived for almost 2 months is almost unimaginable. It's what we hrosemen refer to as "heart". As most of us know, when you meet a horse with "heart" you know it. Ability won the Derby, "heart" made it a runaway. Everyone saw it. Even horse novices saw it.

The world now understands that horseman's term -- "heart" (maybe not all, but many more). His saga has also allowed otherwise ignorant people to understand that horses are indeed individuals. And for that I am grateful that Barbaro has sent out that message for his brethren TB's in the racing industry.

.

clint

Jul. 17, 2006, 09:57 PM

The visual of Barbaro using his sling like a Johnny-Jump-Up is the first thing all week about him that has made me smile. No, I don't think any horse who has figured that out is ready to go yet.:D

Go Barbaro!

gubbyz

Jul. 17, 2006, 11:35 PM

Boing Bobby, Boing!!!!

Plumcreek

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:31 AM

The sports reporter on the Denver regular network 10:00 news just said, "And now the most asked question of the day - How is Barbaro?..."

.

JoZ

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:40 AM

I've known a couple of horses that might BOING in trying circumstances... they are the special ones. God love him.

Propped Up

Jul. 18, 2006, 02:58 AM

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:19 AM

Thanks to Tim ~

Update 264: Two new videos have been added to the Fan Media (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/05/barbaro_multime.php) page. They are Barbaro--Alive and Kicking! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbKfx2_pmCQ) and Magnificent Barbaro (http://www.dailymotion.com/javaellybob/video/370963).
For those unable to see the ESPN's sunday piece on Bobby (during the delayed Del Cap coverage) here is an excerpt of the transcript from Margaret (full transcript below, time stamped: Posted by: Margaret at July 18, 2006 01:39 AM):

Kenny three days after delivering the grim news that Barbaro's chances of recovery were poor; veternarians say he's holding his own. As of early this afternoon Barbaro continues to have a positive outlook and a healthy appetite, despite the fact that he's wearing casts on both hind legs, he's on potent medications, and he spends a good deal of time in a sling. Now the vets called his "L" a catastrophic problem", yet the horse is (Jeannine stressed this word) responding well to treatment.
His trainer Michael Matz told me its been an emotionally draining week. His optimism is now been tempered by reality.

ivy62

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:40 AM

VB thank you for the contiuned view into Barbaro's world. I believe he has the conviction of a champion and that is to win at all costs. He now is in the race of his life and I believe he will come through this. It may be a miracle but we believe!!!! Still Jingling in NY..
Unfortunately, some papers are writting articles about ending his suffering...Do these people have animals? If we all had the money we would do the same thing!

msj

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:43 AM

I'm going to be going thru Barbaro withdrawal for the next week as I'm taking my 'puter in for R & R. I've asked our moderator, Louise, to phone me if something significant happens :( cause I don't want to hear it on the evening news first. :(

But I'm hoping Bobby is happily BOINGING and BOINGING away in his sling when my puter comes back! :yes: :lol:

Take care Bobby!!! :D

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:54 AM

The two new videos are both excellent and worth watching! Here is what those who produced them said about the videos and why they produced them:

Update 13: Another video: Alive and Kicking!, thanks Pam Coblyn. An excerpt of Pam's e-mail to me:

Mainly, what I REALLY wanted to accomplish was to pay homage to Barbaro's strength, power, will and acceptance of love from those around him. I believe he brought out the best of everyone and I want to pay tribute to them, too, for recognizing that Barbaro has a rare and indomitable spirit.

My video, "Barbaro--Alive & Kicking" features music by Simple Minds

Update 12: Another video on DailyMotion: Magnificent Barbaro. Author:
This video is nothing but Barbaro's Proudest Moments: Training, Winning Every Race (didn't have Maiden Race pictures or I would have include it), and just great pictures of Proud Barbaro. The background music is the Main Title from "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimmaron."
Note: Tropical Park Derby is also absent.

If you haven't seen all of the great Barbaro videos they are compiled at Tim Wooley's Racing site with fan comments at:

http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/05/barbaro_multime.php

Addison

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:56 AM

"Alive and Kicking" is absolutley breath taking. I'm going to give my big old horse a great big hug.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 07:19 AM

Update 265: Just saw Michael Matz this morning on the horse path as his set was coming back from the track, he reported Dr. Richardson had left him a voice mail that Barbaro had another good night last night (Monday night). Bobby was able to get up and down and he remains comfortable. I asked Michael about his visit yesterday (he pretty much visits every evening)...in particular, I asked how Bobby's front feet were doing and he said that he'd checked them personally and they were nice and cold. That's good news!
Also, a team from WJZ-TV Channel 13 (a CBS affiliate out of Baltimore) was here at Fair HIll this morning shooting video of the training center, interviewing me and Tim Woolley etc. They will be broadcasting the piece on this evening's news from 5p to 7p. Or, you can check it out on their site, WJZ.com, sometime after 5:30pm tonight.
updated 7:35am

dcm

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:00 AM

Great news again! Thanks VB!

GO BARBARO, GO!!

BOING BOBBY, BOING!!!

Equine Connection

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:07 AM

Thank you SO MUCH for the continued, in-depth updates on Barbaro and his wonderful team, and for the Barbaro clips -- what an incredible horse, to say the least! Great to hear he had another good night. Godspeed Barbaro and all!

Bugs-n-Frodo

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:16 AM

I HATE that i can't get the internet at my house because I don't get the chance to check up on him very often. I watch the news like a hawk and once the Barbaro update comes on, I feel better. Fortunately, I live in Maryland and they update him frequently on the local news.

GO BOBBY GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

oldgraymare

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:34 AM

The videos were wonderful and brought tears to my eyes.

Boing on, Bobby!

eggbutt

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:41 AM

I asked how Bobby's front feet were doing and he said that he'd checked them personally and they were nice and cold. That's good news!

Thank you glorious God! Please keep the jingles coming for continued good news:yes:

War Admiral

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:56 AM

Morning jingles from me and the Avemonster in GA... Keep boinging Bobby!!

chawley

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:58 AM

Jerry Brewer's article says it all. I am reminded of a wonderful book I had years ago, "Deep through the Heart, with a Touch of Greatness". It was about TBs.

Rock on Barbaro...rock on. The world is praying for you.

Oh my gosh - I still have my copy of that book! Awesome read for any racing lover!

God bless Barbaro.

Davignport

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:02 AM

Another day and Barbaro is not the lead story on the news so I know "no news is good news". Glad to hear he had another comfortable night. This site is the first place I check in the morning to see how Bobby is doing. It sounds like he has figured out how to use the sling to be most comfortable. I don't think a "dumb animal" would be able to do that. What is so nice about this site is the POSITIVE thoughts that we all have. I have been on other sites where some of the comments are "so what - he is just a dumb animal - put him down and be done with it". How people, whether you love horses or not, can be so cold hearted is way beyond me. I am happy that I am one of the ones who know how special these creatures are and how much my own horse enriches my life every day.

Again, many thanks to VB for all your efforts and updates. All of us here appreciate it so much. Hang in there Bobbby...

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:07 AM

Barbaro Still Stable, Appears Playful By DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. Jul 18, 2006 (AP)— Barbaro seems downright playful. The Kentucky Derby winner squirms in his safety device, and even sits on his damaged hind legs the way dogs do when they beg for treats. The sling Barbaro spends most of the day in was designed for comfort in his recovery. The 3-year-old colt instead sees it as a challenge.
"He was using it similar to a jolly jumper," said Dr. Kathleen Anderson, Barbaro's attending vet when the horse was racing and stabled in trainer Michael Matz's barn at the Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Md.
"He was almost doing like children do when they're bored, they do the jolly jumper where they kind of boing around the stall. He was boinging, boinging around the stall a little bit."
Those are encouraging signs for the ailing colt, though the odds of Barbaro's full recovery from a severe case of laminitis and a reconstructed right hind leg are really no better than they were a week ago.
"It is important for people to understand this is not a 'routine' laminitis," Dr. Dean Richardson said Monday in a statement. "The care involved in treating a hoof with this degree of compromise is complex."
Barbaro's condition was stable Monday, his vital signs, appetite and heart rate were normal after another comfortable night.
"We will continue to manage his pain successfully, and he is alert," Richardson said.
He said the fiberglass cast on the colt's left hind foot will be changed so the hoof can be treated and watched for signs of infection. Because of laminitis, a painful and often-fatal condition, 80 percent of the hoof wall was removed last week.
The cast on the colt's right hind leg shattered shortly after the start of the Preakness Stakes on May 20 has been changed at least four times in the last two weeks.
"He has learned how to adapt his posture to the sling so he can benefit from the most comfort," Anderson told The Associated Press.
Anderson left a mid-afternoon visit feeling good about the way the colt looked, though she noted that the prognosis for his recovery was still not encouraging.

"The reality is, you have to say poor at this point in time," she said. "It doesn't mean it's hopeless and I think that's the big difference."
Nearly everyone who has visited Barbaro during the past week has said the same things about his appearance: He looks bright-eyed and alert.
Those seemingly never-ending deliveries of apples, carrots and peppermints from fans don't seem to be going to waste, given the reports of his hearty appetite. Kennett Florist makes several deliveries a day to the hospital, its vans overflowing with roses and gourmet baskets sent from well-wishers.
"It's been very good for business, but it's been very time consuming," store owner Alie Berstler said. "These people are very, very upset."
Berstler said one fan ordered four dozen roses at a time, and estimates she has probably delivered more than 400 roses, 300 apples and 150 pounds of carrots since late last week.
Copyright 2006 The Associated Press.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:10 AM

Barbaro a hero because he lacks human flaws
By Linda Robertson
McClatchy Newspapers

The cards and letters keep coming, enough to fill stables. Flowers, too - especially roses. Well-wishers drive out of their way to visit. Faith healers call. Schoolchildren send drawings.
The patient can't acknowledge the outpouring of affection. Nor is he aware of a nation's concern. He is, after all, a horse.
But Barbaro isn't just any horse. He was the Triple Crown favorite who broke down after bolting from the Preakness starting gate. Millions watched as his right hind leg buckled and cracked, then hung on a hinge of tissue, dangling grotesquely as jockey Edgar Prado pulled him to a stop.
These 1,200-pound thoroughbreds are so powerful, yet their legs are as delicate as the stems of wine glasses.
Now, Barbaro cannot do the one thing he was born to do - run. It is his immobility that could kill him. The casts and confinement are causing a chain reaction of infection.
He is fighting for his life. So why has Barbaro's heart captivated so many? He is, after all, a horse.
At first, it was thought Barbaro would have to be put down, euthanized like the filly Ruffian was in 1975. But after surgery to insert a plate and 27 screws, he was given a 50 percent chance of survival.
Seven weeks later come the complications Barbaro's veterinarian feared. Dr. Dean Richardson removed 80 percent of Barbaro's left hind hoof to treat acute laminitis caused by Barbaro putting too much weight on his good leg. It could be months before Barbaro is out of the woods. Or it could be days until his pain is too severe to manage.
His owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, face tough decisions. As Richardson said, if they sustain Barbaro's life and Barbaro doesn't make it, they'll be criticized for hanging on too long. If they put him to sleep, they'll be criticized for quitting too early.
Racing fans and people who know nothing about the sport have been riveted by Barbaro's plight and follow every update out of Pennsylvania.
Barbaro is, after all, a horse. Why the tears shed on his behalf?
He is a hero unencumbered by human flaws. At a time when so many of the people we look up to let us down, Barbaro doesn't lie, cheat or manipulate. In a world boiling with hate and revenge, he's not cruel, greedy or power-mad. After he won the Kentucky Derby, he was happy to receive pats on the neck and extra oats. His innocence prevents disillusionment. He gives and gets unconditional love.
Who hasn't adored a pet and the pet's unflagging optimism? Who hasn't fantasized about riding a horse, either off into the sunset like John Wayne or across the finish line like Pat Day? Who hasn't daydreamed about being an animal - carefree and content to frolic in an open field?
Race horses aren't bred to be cuddly creatures. They're not as smart as Lassie. But there's something about their majesty and the "brightness in the eyes" that Richardson checks for in Barbaro that makes them idealized objects of affection.
Americans loved Man O'War, Seabiscuit, Citation, Secretariat, Ruffian, Seattle Slew, Funny Cide. Now they are rooting for Barbaro to give it his all in recovery as he did on the track.
The thin legs and small hooves that carried him so swiftly have turned into the source of his entrapment. A human would have to land on his middle finger to approximate the same proportion of weight a thoroughbred's hoof supports when it hits the ground.
Barbaro is like a bird without wings. He's hobbling or harnessed in a giant sling, caught in a race for his life.

eggbutt

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:17 AM

He is a hero unencumbered by human flaws. At a time when so many of the people we look up to let us down, Barbaro doesn't lie, cheat or manipulate. In a world boiling with hate and revenge, he's not cruel, greedy or power-mad.

So true...and beautiful.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:22 AM

My thanks again to Alex & Tim:

Update 266: Reading through many of th recent articles that have been published. Much of the content we already know. I did enjoy this article: Barbaro a hero because he lacks human flaws (http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/15060420.htm) that discusses why we love Bobby, an excerpt:

Barbaro is, after all, a horse. Why the tears shed on his behalf?
He is a hero unencumbered by human flaws. At a time when so many of the people we look up to let us down, Barbaro doesn't lie, cheat or manipulate. In a world boiling with hate and revenge, he's not cruel, greedy or power-mad. After he won the Kentucky Derby, he was happy to receive pats on the neck and extra oats. His innocence prevents disillusionment. He gives and gets unconditional love.
Who hasn't adored a pet and the pet's unflagging optimism? Who hasn't fantasized about riding a horse, either off into the sunset like John Wayne or across the finish line like Pat Day? Who hasn't daydreamed about being an animal - carefree and content to frolic in an open field?
Race horses aren't bred to be cuddly creatures. They're not as smart as Lassie. But there's something about their majesty and the "brightness in the eyes" that Richardson checks for in Barbaro that makes them idealized objects of affection.
Americans loved Man O'War, Seabiscuit, Citation, Secretariat, Ruffian, Seattle Slew, Funny Cide. Now they are rooting for Barbaro to give it his all in recovery as he did on the track.

Gunnar

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:43 AM

This horse is one of a kind. From what I read he is such a strong guy with wonderful character. :sadsmile:

Bobby I am jingling like mad!

Thanks to VB and others for the updates!

MsM

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:48 AM

I really feel for what all Barbaro's closest people (and that now includes all those caring for him at NBC) are going thru. Those of us who have had horses near death and who have had to contemplate unthinkable choices know how difficult that is. And you know those medical people who always would have been sad to lose a patient are now emotionally bonded to him "as a person" as well. To go thru this publicly for weeks (hopefully months) has got to be emotional torture. Sure, its nice to know so many people care, but having to talk publicly about it all the time would be really difficult for me! I am amazed at the openness and grace of ALL those involved.

BTW, did they do X-rays and change the cast on the laminitic foot Monday? I havent found any particulars there.

captain

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:52 AM

yes, a never ending thank you VB, you have been wonderful to keep us up to date, and with such detail. ever greatful : )

"....unencumbered by human flaws......" just so true, and that, for me, is where the beauty and strength live.

jingles continue in mass.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:56 AM

BTW, did they do X-rays and change the cast on the laminitic foot Monday? I havent found any particulars there.

No. I am thinking that's the next thing we'll hear about.
Praying for good news here in Virginia..................

BBowen

Jul. 18, 2006, 11:02 AM

Thank you VirginiaBred. You're the best!!! Continuing the prayers and jingles for Barbaro. I love the thought of him "boinging" in his stall. His personality is shining through.

Spoilsport

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:07 PM

There's a new fairly upbeat update on the NBC site. They've changed the cast.

http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update7-18.htm

Keep on boinging, Big Boy!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:11 PM

This just in:

Update 267: New Bolton's press release today: Barbaro's casts changed (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update7-18.htm) discusses the much anticipated cast change:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro remains in stable condition with good vital signs after a restful night, according to Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson. "Yesterday afternoon we changed his right hind leg cast to take new radiographs and to examine the incision," said Dr. Richardson. "The radiographs looked good; the plates we placed on July 8 to fuse the pastern are intact and the fetlock fusion is unchanged. The leg and the incision looked as good as we could have hoped."
The right hind leg cast supports the repair of the injury suffered at the Preakness on May 20, and it extends from the colt's foot to just below his hock.
The modified foot cast, which acts like a bandage on Barbaro's left hind foot, was also changed yesterday. The foot cast is rigid and provides stability and support, but will be changed often so that the hoof can be treated. Both cast changes were performed with Barbaro lightly sedated in a sling. He has adapted very well to being managed as needed in the sling. "He is a very intelligent horse," said Dr. Richardson.

I enjoyed reading this article: Barbaro on minds of Matz, DelPark fans (http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060717/SPORTS12/607170324/1033/SPORTS). Micheal did mention to me yesterday that so many people were offering their support throughout the day. However, this piece of the article really caught my attention:

Michael Barnes and his 7-year-old daughter Taylor came to Delaware Park with a sign that read, "We Love You Barbaro; Get Well Soon." The Akron, Pa., residents showed the sign to Matz, who signed it and posed for pictures with the family.
Barnes said he and his family planned to stop at the New Bolton Center to put the sign up among the hundreds of other signs wishing Barbaro well.
"My daughter asks me every day how [Barbaro] is doing," Barnes said. "Everybody is really worried and everyone is saddened for the horse."

I also saw the poster and met Taylor and her parents. You can see a picture of the poster with Taylor in our gallery (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/gallery/), and it is now featured on the homepage.

luveventing

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:11 PM

phew....can take another deep breath since the casts changed have been done and went well. He just encompasses all of the attributes of the TB that make them so special to me. High intelligence, self-preservation, and incredible heart. You just cant beat the good ones in my opinion. I am a TB fan forever!

Fancy

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:16 PM

I was hoping to hear whether the infection in his right leg was any better. Is it too soon to tell?
:confused:

FirstCry

Jul. 18, 2006, 12:48 PM

What an amazing boy he is!!! I too have images of him boinging around his stall going "weeeeee".:yes: :lol: I know my son used to love his jolly jumper, he would spend hours in it if I let him.

Still Jinglin like mad here.:)

Janet

Jul. 18, 2006, 01:18 PM

the fetlock fusion is unchanged. That doesn't sound like good news to me. The way I understand it, that joint HAS to fuse for him to be weight-bearing sound.

But at least it is a longer term concern, not critical at this point.

Bridgette Pony

Jul. 18, 2006, 02:41 PM

I also wanted to say a big thank you to VirginiaBred for all the timely updates and to others on this board for the information and discussions. It's great to be able to come here and get reliable information about Barbaro's recovery from people who understand horses.

Since our daughter started riding three years ago and we bought our first pony in March of this year we're still learning the basics. I can't add much to the discussions, but I'm learning a lot from all of you.

monstrpony

Jul. 18, 2006, 02:45 PM

Janet, I believe the fetlock fusion was the one that had been progressing well; the fact that it's unchanged means nothing has come loose. It's the pastern that was problematic before, and the fact that that plate is "intact" indicates to me that it hasn't warped or shifted, so that the fusion can take place as desired.

Just a different reading I had of the same thing, and I'm no expert. But it often seems with these medical updates that the more uneventful the language, the better.

Janet

Jul. 18, 2006, 02:51 PM

Ah, Thanks. I was remembering it the other way round for some reason.

Jazzy's mom

Jul. 18, 2006, 03:15 PM

I am amazed at the outpouring of support and greatly enjoy the updates here. I do find it sad however that people will spend such an huge amount of money on flowers and such..the money could be used so much more constructively if it were sent to TRF or CANTER. Somewhat like they do when someone passes away "in lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to..." It just seems that it would make so much more of an impact.

I love that they post such frequent updates on Barbaro, just that takes much time and effort.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 03:27 PM

Update 269: Mike Schuh jut called to say that the piece he did at Fair Hill this morning for WJZ / CBS, which includes interviews with Tim and I, will air between 6:10 and 6:20 pm. It should be about a two minute clip, he was not sure since it is now in editing. Shortly after it airs it will be on their website: wjz.com (http://wjz.com/). Someone posted this website of Bobby pictures from the Bloodhorse (http://jsflwr.phanfare.com/album/87124) before the Derby. I assume these images were not widely distributed at the time, I would not have got 6 - 1!
Update 268: A couple of articles include a telephone interview with Michael Matz this morning: Barbaro's trainer cautiously encouraged with stability (http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=2522722) and Barbaro's trainer is encouraged (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060718/ap_on_sp_ot/rac_barbaro_68). Michael Matz's quotes from the articles are:

"He could take a turn for the worse or get an infection again, you just don't know," Matz said in a telephone interview. "It's just a slow road now. If he keeps having days like he's having now, then hopefully everything will be fine."
Although Tuesday's official medical update has not been released yet, Matz said Barbaro vet Dean Richardson told him the Kentucky Derby winner had another restful night and his vital signs were normal.
"He said they're very happy with the X-rays yesterday of both hind legs," Matz said.

and

"He's a fighter. He's doing the best he can," Matz said. "They're doing all the best to save the horse. That's all we can do. That's all we can hope for is what's happening right now."

and

"It's a difficult situation," Matz said. "I've had two before with it and we lost both of them."

and

"You have to be prepared for anything, obviously," Matz said. "I'm optimistic because I want him to live."

ivy62

Jul. 18, 2006, 03:32 PM

Thank you again VB for your info. I always check my email before I leave the house in the am.
I also have to agree that the TRF's of the world could be a better place for the flowers and carrots being put into Barbaro. He has a loving family that is doing all that can be done. MAybe we could make donations in his name?BUt where would one start? I got my horse from a very small rescue here in NY? There are so many......
Still jingling here in NY!

Chester's Mom

Jul. 18, 2006, 03:57 PM

"Maybe we could make donations in his name?BUt where would one start?"

Why don't we start by making a donation to our favorite or local rescue, TRF or CANTER, Exceller fund or wherever and tell them it is in honor of Barbaro?

It obviously wouldn't be trackable, but those who receive it would recognize that publicity of this kind CAN be helpful to everyone.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 04:06 PM

From Bloomberg.com

Kentucky Derby Winner Barbaro Has Cast Change, Remains Stable July 18 (Bloomberg) -- Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro had the casts on his injured hind legs replaced by doctors using a light sedative.
The 3-year-old colt, who shattered his right hind ankle in the opening strides of the Preakness Stakes on May 20, remains in stable condition, doctors at the University of Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital said in a statement today.
Barbaro has adapted to being suspended in a sling, which allowed surgeons to use the light sedative rather than general anesthesia when they replaced the casts yesterday, said Dr. Dean Richardson, the hospital's chief surgeon.
``He is a very intelligent horse,'' Richardson said.
Barbaro had surgery on his broken ankle on May 21 and more recently has been treated for a life-threatening bout of laminitis, an inflammation that required the removal of 80 percent of his left hoof on July 12.
Richardson said he took radiographs of the right leg yesterday, checked the incision where he had cleaned out an infection and replaced the hardware holding the bones together to fuse the ankle. The cast covers Barbaro's foot up to the hock.
``The leg and the incision looked as good as we could have hoped,'' Richardson said today in a statement issued by the hospital in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, 35 miles southwest of Philadelphia.
A modified foot cast on the left leg acts as a bandage to give support to the area where the hoof was removed. Laminitis occurs when a horse stands with its weight unequally distributed.
Richardson said that cast would be changed frequently for treatment of the hoof, which will take at least five to six months to grow back.
Barbaro had a restful night in the hospital's intensive care unit, Richardson said.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 04:10 PM

Barbaro's recovery back on track, doctor says

baltimoresun.com

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. // After a week of alarm and setback, Barbaro appeared to be back in the recovery mode yesterday in this rural southeastern Pennsylvania setting.

The Kentucky Derby winner enjoyed his second consecutive good night at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals, and remained stable - two days after his condition was downgraded to guarded.
"His heart rate and pulse are normal, and his appetite is good," Dr. Dean Richardson said in a release from the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. "He continues to respond well, looks good and has a positive attitude."

Flowers and fruit baskets continue to arrive in droves from an adoring public after a week in which it appeared Barbaro's recovery from multiple fractures in his right hind leg had come to an abrupt halt.
On Friday, by unofficial count, a hospital receptionist said there had been no fewer than 50 deliveries of bouquets or snacks for the horse.

Barbaro broke his leg in three places with a misstep in the first 100 yards of the Preakness Stakes on May 20, and underwent a 4 1/2 -hour operation the next day.

Since then, he has gone through three more surgical procedures, including one to treat an infection in his right leg - and for cast changes.

Eighty percent of Barbaro's left rear hoof was removed Wednesday after he developed an acute case of laminitis, a disease that is often fatal in horses.

The dark bay had been fitted with fiberglass casts on both hind legs, as well as a body sling that allows him to move around.

Yesterday was Barbaro's 56th full day in intensive care at the New Bolton Center.

"We continue to monitor him very closely and we are keeping him as comfortable as possible," Richardson said.

Kenike

Jul. 18, 2006, 04:16 PM

Thanks again, VB. I'm so grateful that you're doing this. :)

I love those pictures on BH...so cool! I pray the recovery will continue on the upswing....

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 04:53 PM

As written by Alex:

Update 270: Before the WJZ piece airs this evening I thought I would provide a bit of background about the events prior to and during the "shoot".
Mike Schuh mentioned last week, after he e-mailed us the nice video clip they did at New Bolton Center, that he would be interested in doing a piece on the web-site. When he mentioned this I assumed it would be a written piece. He said he would get back to me early next week (this week) to arrange a time (I assumed this would then be a phone call interview). Mike called yesterday and said he planned to come up to Fair Hill this morning, and bring a camera. We discussed the best time to arrive, and truly it is before the sun gets too hot, so he planned to get here about 6 AM. Usually I get on my first horse at 5:30, this morning, my first horse was scheduled for 6. As I was about to get on the first horse (for Paul Rowland) I noticed I had a voice-mail. I called, it was Mike, he had arrived, had dropped his camera guy off close to the track and was waiting at the first barn. The first horse I was getting on was actually from another barn, and I was taking him "out back", i.e. not to the training track. I called Mike back (at this time I was already on my first horse going to the fields) and told him I would be by the first barn at 6:30, Mike went to the track to catch up with his camera guy.
I was kind of stressing a little as I was thinking that perhaps these guys would take the opportunity to get some information from Michael Matz, and I was wondering how I was going to get the info. for my first update if these guys were around etc. etc. Perhaps Michael Matz would be a little annoyed by the whole thing (none of this turned out to be correct of course!)
Anyway, I got back to the first barn, and I was now getting on my second horse (for Judge Jackson), which was going to go in company with one of Tim's horse's with Tim riding. I met Mike, and also the camera guy, Joel Eagle. Immediately my fears for their intent to use this as an opportunity to get content from Michael Matz etc. ended. They both just seemed like cool guys. They miked me up, and off to the track we went (me and Tim). Joel took some footage of us getting on the horse (she scooted from under me, I hope they edited out the ...). Tim and I galloped our horses just over a mile, we jogged a ways first. As we were riding I tried to make some relevant comments etc. I still had not got an update from Michael for the site at this stage (it was 6:50ish and usually the time I can get an update) so I was stressing about that a little. We rode the horses back to the barn. The plan was then for me and Tim to ride a couple of Tim's horses, but Joel and Mike were going to stay behind in the barn. Mike interviewed Tim for about five to ten minutes while I went to see if I could get the necessary update. I walked back up the horsepath (without a horse) and found Michael (Matz). I walked back down the horsepath with Michael who gave me the positive news which I reported in update 265.
At that point I called the update in to Jen to put on the site. I did this in proximity of Joel, Mike and Tim. I think some of it was on camera.
Tim and I went out on our next set (Tim had now been interviewed). When we returned Mike and Joel were talking to Kathy Anderson. I do not think this was on camera. I was then interviewed, for about ten minutes. Mike asked great questions, and it was done in a very relaxing manner. I am sure there is an art to that! Mike and Joel then departed (about 8:10 AM) and I got on my next horse, just before the renovation break.
It was a great experience. Joel and Mike were really cool to work with. I have subsequently learned that each is a multiple emmy award winner. I am glad I did not know that beforehand, I might have fallen off!

Fred

Jul. 18, 2006, 04:56 PM

Thank you as always VAbred for the updates. It is greatly appreciated!
It would certainly honour Barbaro in a real and effective way to make a donation - however small - to CANTER and the EXCELLER FUND, or one of the other rescues. The need is so great, and yet that small donation, which you may think can't possibly help, could very well be the difference between that horse being rescued or going on the meat truck.
You can do this by paypal or just mail a cheque.
Write on the cheque, or in a message to them, that the money is being sent to help Thoroughbred horses in the name of the horse who epitomizes the courage and heart of the Thoroughbred horse......
I know they are DESPARATE for help...CANTERSoIl is in difficult straits.. and the smallest donation can make a huge difference.
www.canterusa.org is the place to start. or google Exceller Fund
Then send a card to Barbaro at NB and write on it that a donation has been made in your honour...
Hang in there Bobby, we are praying for you!

now, how do I change my signature to add Team Barbaro to it?

MsM

Jul. 18, 2006, 05:07 PM

I wonder if it might be more effective if Canter or Exceller created a "Barbaro Fund" with contact info and info on it's uses. They could then post that info on threads like this (as if there were another quite like this!) and possibly ask Barbaro's connections if they would endorse it.
It would be nice to have a fund in Barbaro's honor that could be used for rehabbing other OTTBs I think if the word could be gotten out to more of the public, they might choose this route rather than the flowers, etc.

carol_okc

Jul. 18, 2006, 05:36 PM

And for those of us for whom Bobby is symbolic of all our horses, ANY rescue/sanctuary that has already earned your respect has certainly earned a donation in honor of boy. All of them are hurting, whether they specialize in helping thoroughbreds, or no-breds. Heck, my rescue-of-choice even helps long-ears.... and yes, my next donation will be in honor of Bobby.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 05:39 PM

For what it's worth, Susan P has another thread going about Other OTTB, Many Not so Lucky....

That thread may have some good ideas.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 05:51 PM

ottb dressage

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:01 PM

just lit one

Gallop On

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:13 PM

my candle is lit!

McVillesMom

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:20 PM

Mine is lit too!

Susan P

Jul. 18, 2006, 06:28 PM

I agree completely and Thoroughbred Retirement Fund and Thoroughbred Charities of America do focus on the Thoroughbreds, and TRF only takes horses that were raced. So you can choose, it's all good.

Thank you as always VAbred for the updates. It is greatly appreciated!
It would certainly honour Barbaro in a real and effective way to make a donation - however small - to CANTER and the EXCELLER FUND, or one of the other rescues. The need is so great, and yet that small donation, which you may think can't possibly help, could very well be the difference between that horse being rescued or going on the meat truck.
You can do this by paypal or just mail a cheque.
Write on the cheque, or in a message to them, that the money is being sent to help Thoroughbred horses in the name of the horse who epitomizes the courage and heart of the Thoroughbred horse......
I know they are DESPARATE for help...CANTERSoIl is in difficult straits.. and the smallest donation can make a huge difference.
www.canterusa.org (http://www.canterusa.org) is the place to start. or google Exceller Fund
Then send a card to Barbaro at NB and write on it that a donation has been made in your honour...
Hang in there Bobby, we are praying for you!

now, how do I change my signature to add Team Barbaro to it?

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 07:30 PM

Update 271: And here is the WJZ piece (http://wjz.com/local/local_story_199150343.html). Thanks Mike Schuh and Joel Eagle, really appreciate it!

War Admiral

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:01 PM

Doesn't Thoroughbred Charities of America pretty much cover all the other rescue/placement organizations for TBs? I can't recall their link but I did glance at it at one point & the listof rescues they help fund looked pretty exhaustive. I did note for sure that CANTER and the Exceller Fund are on there.

One of B's owners is on the board there, I think, so if we were to approach them to start a Barbaro Fund maybe it would be well received?

Edit: Just lit a candle from Avery BTW...

excowgirlie

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:55 PM

one candle and my candle warmer turned on in phoenix for bobby....

Susan P

Jul. 18, 2006, 08:55 PM

http://www.thoroughbredcharities.org/ (http://www.thoroughbredcharities.org/)

Doesn't Thoroughbred Charities of America pretty much cover all the other rescue/placement organizations for TBs? I can't recall their link but I did glance at it at one point & the listof rescues they help fund looked pretty exhaustive. I did note for sure that CANTER and the Exceller Fund are on there.

One of B's owners is on the board there, I think, so if we were to approach them to start a Barbaro Fund maybe it would be well received?

Edit: Just lit a candle from Avery BTW...

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:01 PM

964 Candles have been lit for Barbaro.

Come on Team, we can light a lot more!!!!!

Here's the link: http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/...l=eng&gi=barba (http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba)

I'm EBO

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:02 PM

Don't forget that there's a Barbaro Fund at New Bolton. Not that we would steal the thunder from that, but maybe a different title for the fund would ease the way.

I mostly do my donating on the west coast, where I live, and my group does help ottbs when they show up, as well as anything equine. There's no Canter on the left coast, but there is Pegasus and some other smaller (but 501.c) groups. Primarily, we try to keep them off slaughter trucks, but occasionally raise funds for medical expenses.

The need is always overwhelming, but I do know that any donation you can spare makes a difference. I can't count the number of horses we've saved with $5, $10 and $20 donations.

All points

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:08 PM

Mine is lit

Duffy

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:13 PM

Just lit one!

Taunton

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:15 PM

My candle is lit for Bobby!

annikak

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:22 PM

Candle is lit...
thanks, VB- you truly make my day!

Sugarbrook

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:27 PM

Lit my candle. Sandy

monstrpony

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:36 PM

Mine is #988!

ElonGrad1997

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:38 PM

LIGHT A CANDLE FOR BARBARO ...

As of now, there are 883 candles lit for "Bobby" ... let's see if we can make it a thousand ... that's only 117 of you wonderful people reading this to go to www.gratefulness.org and light a candle of Gratitude.

Here's the actual link: http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba

OK, am I the only one who cannot figure out how to light a candle? I have gone to the site, and see nothing but candles, and nothing on how to light one. Help! (I feel like a jerk too...I am the Web person for a big company!!!) :o

Edited to add: okay, like I said, I am a jerk. After two days, I just figured it out. But, somehow I'm candle #978. How is that possible when someone before me was 988? I'm so lost.

eks

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:38 PM

Just lit my candle for Barbaro...thanks so much VB for all that you are doing to keep those of us who love Barbaro up to date on his latest condition. I'm so glad that this week has gotten off to a better start...

Mrs. Smith

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:40 PM

I was #977 - getting close!

Spoilsport

Jul. 18, 2006, 09:43 PM

Just lit mine, making it 980 from 7 countries.

horsekpr

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:03 PM

I lit mine! How cool is that? For anyone having trouble figuring it out,just click on an unlit candle and follow directions!

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:04 PM

Wow... Tim Wooley Racing ( www.timwooleyracing.com) is getting 16,000 hit A DAY from people looking for info on Barbaro!

Does anyone have any idea how many hits a day this thread is getting?

Here is a link to a report that shows how Tim Wooley is getting the instant updates to his site that are copied onto this thread almost instantly to our site by VB. I thought he had a computer in the barn and was typing in the info but they make a telephone call to a computer volunteer from the barn as soon as they talk to Michael or Kathleen or anyone else who has an update.

Here is the link to the news clip about the amazing growth of timwooleyracing.com ... worth watching.

http://wjz.com/local/local_story_199150343.html

And I lit my candle and so did both of my kids!

Linny

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:14 PM

I lit a candle but I don't know it's number.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:17 PM

Adventurebeach, I posted that on the previous page (the link to the WJZ piece). It's excellent!

Team Barbaro, we have now lit 1,048 candles for Barbaro!!!!!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:30 PM

From the NewYorkTimes.com

Veterinarian Says Barbaro Needs to ‘Regrow His Foot’

Barbaro (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/b/barbaro_race_horse/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier)’s chances of survival may hinge on his body’s ability to regrow the hoof on his left rear leg, his primary veterinarian, Dr. Dean Richardson, said yesterday.
Last week, Barbaro was found to have laminitis, a painful hoof disease often brought on by uneven weight distribution. Doctors at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals in Kennett Square, Pa., where he is being treated, removed 80 percent of his left hind hoof. A cast has been placed on the left rear leg to support the area where the hoof was removed.
But Richardson said it was vital that the hoof grew to the point that it, and not a cast, could support Barbaro, the Kentucky Derby winner, who broke his rear right leg in the Preakness.
“He has to, basically, regrow his foot,” Richardson said. “That’s the whole issue. Can we get enough hoof growth that he will be comfortable? And that’s going to take months. If we can keep him comfortable with the various things that we are doing while this is occurring, we have a shot. Horses have regrown feet before. He wouldn’t be the first horse to do it. But his hurdles are higher than others because we still have issues with his right hind leg.”
Barbaro had appeared ready to overcome the odds and recover from his injury. But that outlook changed last week when it was announced that he had developed laminitis in the left hind leg.
Laminitis often becomes so painful that a horse must be euthanized. Richardson has said that Barbaro’s case of laminitis is “as bad as it gets.”
Horses are not able to survive standing on three healthy legs.
“You have to get the horny part, or hard part, of his hoof to grow back down on top of the bone,” Richardson said. “Then you have something for the horse to walk on. No one is claiming that the horse has a high probability of getting a normal foot. The hope is to get him something comfortable enough that he can walk on.
“Everybody has had a few successes with this. That doesn’t make it easy and it doesn’t mean that this particular horse is going to be one of the ones to make it. Anybody who does this type of work will have the occasional horse that everybody considers at the time a miracle. That’s the nature of this type of work.
“If you really stick it out, some of them make it. But the overall numbers are such that I can’t be excessively sanguine about his chances. This is a serious problem.”
Richardson said that Barbaro, with the help of painkillers, remained in a comfortable state, another key component of his recovery.
“To me and to the owners, the thing that matters is his comfort,” he said. “If he stays comfortable, we will keep on trying to get his hoof to grow and get everything to heal. As far as his long-term survival goes, he has to get a foot. He’s not going to survive if he doesn’t grow a foot.”
As part of the continuing treatment, the casts on Barbaro’s hind legs have been changed again. A new cast was placed on the right hind leg Monday and the cast on his left hind leg was replaced yesterday.
Radiographs taken on the right hind leg showed that the area was continuing to heal, Richardson said.

ParisHillEC

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:40 PM

just lit mine.

go bobby!!

gray17htb

Jul. 18, 2006, 10:51 PM

I just lit mine. That has to be one of the awesomest(my word;) ) things I have ever seen!

horsehair

Jul. 18, 2006, 11:08 PM

Just lit my candle for the Barbaro lovers in Hawaii! I go to the computer first thing every morning to check on Bobby. I know he has the strength to
make it!

baywithchrome2

Jul. 18, 2006, 11:29 PM

Just lit my candle for Bobby.

Thanks VB (and all your connections) for the continuous updates!

Susan P

Jul. 18, 2006, 11:39 PM

I just lit a candle. :D

teal tea

Jul. 18, 2006, 11:45 PM

I'm going to light another one again. Thanks to the person who originally posted it. :) I've lit two so far (not at the same time). I read that once you light a candle it's stay's lit for 48 hours; so I light one every other day, so it's as if I have one candle continously lit.

BTW I loved that video that someone posted recently that shows Barbaro at different times of his life. I think it was titled Barbaro lives.

certifiedgirl

Jul. 19, 2006, 12:30 AM

We are up to 1103 candles!

Incidentally I just received a newsletter from TRF and it said that they are having an urgent fundraising drive and that TRF board member John Murrell and the Murrell Foundation is matching every donation during the drive, up to $50,000.
Sounds like a great opportunity to double a donation to help TBs!
Their website:
www.trfinc.org

Susan P

Jul. 19, 2006, 12:38 AM

Perfect timing for money to be donated to TRF! :yes:

We are up to 1103 candles!

Incidentally I just received a newsletter from TRF and it said that they are having an urgent fundraising drive and that TRF board member John Murrell and the Murrell Foundation is matching every donation during the drive, up to $50,000.
Sounds like a great opportunity to double a donation to help TBs!
Their website:
www.trfinc.org (http://www.trfinc.org)

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:21 AM

Smarty Jones weighs in on Barbaro and other World Subjects...

LOOP CHAT ASK SMARTY JONES
The Loop has known for years that the 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner is one of the most successful thoroughbreds in racing history. What we didn't know is that he's a wise source of advice and counsel.
Q: The entire world is pulling for Barbaro as he tries to recover from his life-threatening injuries. What advice do you have for your fellow Kentucky Derby champ?

JONES: All of us in the paddock are praying for Barbaro. He got a really tough break, or about 25 of them. He needs to work hard on his rehab, because it's all going to pay off for him and his owners in the breeding shed. That laminitis is a bad disease. It's hard to believe that putting too much weight on a leg can do that much damage. It's even more hard to believe that the Vikings' Pat Williams doesn't suffer from the same problem.

Q:
You've had a few health scares yourself, Smarty. What's the closest you've ever come to a catastrophic injury?

JONES: Well, if you remember, I cracked open my skull on a starting gate as a 2-year-old. I also had those problems with foot bruises a couple of years ago. But I'd have to say the most danger I ever faced was before the 2004 Belmont, when I kept tripping over my press clippings.

Q:
I'm a good-looking guy at small Midwestern college, and I normally don't read advice columns written by horses. But I'm having a hard time meeting just the right woman. How do you find the right partner?

JONES: I always look for someone who is really into me, which happens all the time since they only introduce me to mares in heat. I find that, when they're in this condition, I don't have to spend a lot of time making witty banter and small talk. I'm pretty easy, though. If they're willing to put up that $100,000 stud fee, then I'm willing to put forth a professional effort.

Q:
The American horse racing industry appears to be struggling against the competition presented by online gambling and casino expansion. What can be done to save the sport of kings?

JONES: Our sport is a thing of beauty, and millions around the world still follow it closely. We need to promote ourselves better. Champion horses are some of the greatest athletes in the world. Check out Smarty's bod. Feel its power! Have you ever seen musculature like that at the World Series of Poker?

Q:
It seems everyone has an opinion about Barry Bonds. As a celebrity athlete yourself, what are your thoughts about the baseball slugger?

JONES: It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see he's on the juice. Yeah, he probably took more horse steroids than I ever did. Smarty didn't need no stinkin' juice. Just give me a big ol' pile of hay. Throw in some carrots and apples, and I'm one happy camper.

Q:
Your first foal sold last week for more than a half million, and you've already sired more than 75 offspring. I bet you're pretty busy on Father's Day, huh?

JONES: No busier than, say, Shawn Kemp or Steve Garvey!

Q:
Fighting is raging again in southern Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, and the Middle East tensions are wreaking havoc on the price of light sweet crude oil? What do you think the United Nations should do to resolve the crisis?

JONES: What they need to do is get Syria to get Hezbollah to stop doing this s—- and it's over.

Q:
Smarty, you look VERY familiar to me. Have we ever met? I think we may have gone to the same college.

JONES: I hear that all the time. No, I never went to college. My guess is you probably went to Stanford with that John Elway fellow.

Q:
As a busy horse, do you personally answer all your letters?

JONES: I answer all the letters that I can, though it's very hard to keep up because I lack opposable thumbs.

The Loop can be reached at loop@pioneerpress.com.

link: http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/sports/15069359.htm

ivy62

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:38 AM

just lit my candle too! The feelings that people are showing for this horse are not new we just now have a way to share our feelings and information and it is wonderful...Thank you VB again for the geat up dates...

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:47 AM

Thanks Alex & Tim:

Update 272: The following New York Times article: Veterinarian Says Barbaro Needs to 'Regrow His Foot' (http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/19/sports/othersports/19barbaro.html) focuses on a key issue for Barbaro's recovery. The following are quotes from Dr. Richardson:

"He has to, basically, regrow his foot," Richardson said. "That's the whole issue. Can we get enough hoof growth that he will be comfortable? And that's going to take months. If we can keep him comfortable with the various things that we are doing while this is occurring, we have a shot. Horses have regrown feet before. He wouldn't be the first horse to do it. But his hurdles are higher than others because we still have issues with his right hind leg."

and

"You have to get the horny part, or hard part, of his hoof to grow back down on top of the bone," Richardson said. "Then you have something for the horse to walk on. No one is claiming that the horse has a high probability of getting a normal foot. The hope is to get him something comfortable enough that he can walk on.
"Everybody has had a few successes with this. That doesn't make it easy and it doesn't mean that this particular horse is going to be one of the ones to make it. Anybody who does this type of work will have the occasional horse that everybody considers at the time a miracle. That's the nature of this type of work.
"If you really stick it out, some of them make it. But the overall numbers are such that I can't be excessively sanguine about his chances. This is a serious problem."

The following sketch (thanks Anna) (http://txjest.phanfare.com/show/external/72683/72685/4378409/file.jpg) is a little humour based off update 247.
This Baltimore Sun article: Barbaro gets cast changed twice (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/horseracing/bal-barbaro18,0,749848.story?coll=bal-sports-horse) not only quotes Peter Brette, excerpt:

And that assessment comes as no surprise to Brette, who visited him Sunday and Tuesday, but the assistant trainer said the horse's determination is another story.
"It's the first time I've seen a horse treated in a harness," Brette said. "But he's just adjusted to everything they've ever done to him. What he's been through the last eight weeks, it would have been the end of us and of most horses. I think he's surprised everyone by how tough he is."

but also Kathy Rengert (works for Fair Hill and helped in the purchase of La Ville Rouge (Bobby's mum) for the Jackson's):

"We've been bombarded," said Kathy Rengert, a blood stock agent who is a friend of Barbaro's owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, who remain in daily contact with the New Bolton Center while on vacation, visiting family in Africa.
"People want to send things to Barbaro," said Rengert. "Lately, I've been telling them Barbaro's connections have lots of money. If you want to help someone in racing, donate to the fund for trainer Mike Rea (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/), who had a terrible accident here."

Of course we have been following Mike Rea's progress: tuesday appeared a good day! (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/2006/07/good-day.html)

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:49 AM

Wednesday morning's update from Tim Woolley Racing:

Update 273: Barbaro had another comfortable night (tuesday night). Just got the report from Michael Matz as he was leaving the barn with his string at 7:05 this morning.
updated 7:10am

link: http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_11.php

Fred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:04 AM

Lit another candle for Bobby this morning, this time from Fred, and sent off a small donation to Lost and Found Rescue.
Thank you VB for the updates.
Come On Bobby!!!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:10 AM

Continued Thanks to Alex & Tim:

Update 273: Barbaro had another comfortable night (tuesday night). Just got the report from Michael Matz as he was leaving the barn with his string at 7:05 this morning.
updated 7:10am

..........................thanks Pam Coblyn. An excerpt of Pam's e-mail to me: (regarding the making of her video)

Mainly, what I REALLY wanted to accomplish was to pay homage to Barbaro's strength, power, will and acceptance of love from those around him. I believe he brought out the best of everyone and I want to pay tribute to them, too, for recognizing that Barbaro has a rare and indomitable spirit.

Barbaro Now Has 1,112 Candles Lit in His Behalf!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:12 AM

Here is the link for Lighting a Candle for Barbaro ~

Here's the link: http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/...l=eng&gi=barba (http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba)

Susan P

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:58 AM

You've chosen an excellent rescue, they have Nate and Kelly now as for two of the horses that are among the Thoroughbreds they have for adoption. But most importantly they do a bang up job with every penny they get. I've been there twice and met Kelly a couple other times and knew of her work before through a friend who had her foster horses. Since then I took one of her foster horses, she keeps a full house using every stall that's available to her to save every horse she can, often retraining and adopting them to new homes. She does as much as she can and is diligent.

Just a note that this is not a comparison to other rescue organizations, just a comment on your choice of rescues. So I thank you and so do the 3 L & F horses that I fostered and the rest of them. :winkgrin:

Lit another candle for Bobby this morning, this time from Fred, and sent off a small donation to Lost and Found Rescue.
Thank you VB for the updates.
Come On Bobby!!!

Equine Connection

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:07 AM

Thanks so much for the continued updates. I just lit a candle for Barbaro and for my mom who is very ill.

eggbutt

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:41 AM

Just lit another candle...what a great site! 1,120 candles from 11 countries glowing for Bobby:yes:

SAS

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:08 AM

Lit a couple of candles for Barbaro this morning. Boy, it is really moving to read some of the well wishes behind the lit candles. That horse has really won the hearts of so many - it is truly amazing. I have become obsessed with keeping on top of his progress and turn to this thread first thing every morning to stay up to date. Thank you all for the updates.

Keep up the good fight Barbaro!!!!!!!!!

Susan P

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:19 AM

SAS, I've been watching this thread closely too. I think with the up and down condition of Barbaro we are all at the edge of our seat hoping for the best while fearing the worst.

I think the prayers are what does the best for him. :yes:

amble

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:14 AM

VB - thanks for the link. Candle has been lit and still jingling for Bobby's recovery (keys work - no curb chain at the office).

www.amblesidefarm.com
welsh & crossbred ponies

Daydream Believer

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:23 AM

I lit one also. Get well Barbaro.

Indy

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:32 AM

Just lit one from me and one from the pony.

Bobby now has 1,147 candles from 13 countries!

hunt_jumpfl

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:38 AM

Thank you for all of the wonderful updatesand links! This is my first stop of the morning every morning.

Also, thanks for the link to the candles - I lit one for Bobby this morning...Stay strong brave boy.

tradewind

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:13 AM

mine is lit

Davignport

Jul. 19, 2006, 12:37 PM

Just lit my candle. It is like we are all a family here and it is comforting to know so many of us are pulling for this wonderful creature. This board is such a source of positive energy I hope some of it finds its way to NBC. Hang in there Bobby - each day is one more day on the road to recovery and you are doing better than we could have hoped a week ago. Lots of jingles and prayers...

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 12:51 PM

From Alex & Tim:

Update 274: A little light humour as we wait for further Barbaro reports: LOOP CHAT ASK SMARTY JONES (http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/sports/15069359.htm). The following is an excerpt:

Q: The entire world is pulling for Barbaro as he tries to recover from his life-threatening injuries. What advice do you have for your fellow Kentucky Derby champ?
JONES: All of us in the paddock are praying for Barbaro. He got a really tough break, or about 25 of them. He needs to work hard on his rehab, because it's all going to pay off for him and his owners in the breeding shed. That laminitis is a bad disease. It's hard to believe that putting too much weight on a leg can do that much damage. It's even more hard to believe that the Vikings' Pat Williams doesn't suffer from the same problem.

Someday Farm, where Smarty spent some of his youth (perhaps he was foaled there, I am not entirely sure), is about a five minute drive from Fair Hill, just inside Pennsylvania.
I just wanted to thank those of you who have sent us (Tim and I) gifts in the last few days (and for the tab at the Whip (http://thewhiptavern.com/)). It is much appreciated but entirely not necessary. If you would like to offer your thanks with some form of gift, I think it would be cool to either contribute to Mike Rea's Fund (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/) or to a thoroughbred retirement home, whichever you prefer. If it turns out we do need some financial support for this site, I will definitely ask! For now, Eliza (http://www.olivetreemedia.co.uk/) is taking care of everything for us. For those who have contributed to the Whip, I am planning to get a few Barbaro people together so we can toast you all! Its funny, Kathy Anderson came to me this morning and thanked me (and Tim) for a dozen red roses. She was convinced we had sent them. I looked at her, she then realized that was not really something we would do! Thanks to the person who contributed the roses in this site's name. For a while, Kathy thought very good things of Tim and I! Kathy said she might be visiting Bobby later today, I will try to catch up with her to get a report if she does.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:00 PM

This just sent to me through e-mail by my buddy, Alex! (Thanks so much, Alex)

randee, thanks for posting our reports, i have followed your posts as
VB! its great to spread the word! cheers, alex

I decided to include this on this COTH thread I started several months ago to assure all readers I have the permission of the author, owner, etc. of the Tim Woolley site. I had received a couple of PM's suggesting I wasn't giving credit, etc. and in fact I had been. I have been in regular contact with Fair Hill, and wanted to assure any posters that I do, indeed have "permission" to share the word about this amazing and wonderful and courageous horse.

GO BARBARO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spoilsport

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:02 PM

VB - A refreshing update. We need a little humor. I've decided to split my donations between Mike Rea's Fund and a OTTB rescue. That's really great of Tim & Alex to suggest it. I wish they would put something similar on the NBC site. Of course, if sending flowers and carrots and chocolates makes people feel good, that's not such a bad thing either :) Barbaro and the NBC staff deserve them.

Jessi P

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:02 PM

VirginiaBred you are "The Source" as far as I am concerned. ;)

Keep up the good work!

Lit my candle, btw. Go Bobby!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:09 PM

1,169 Candles lit for Barbaro!!!!!!!!!!!

Dispatcher

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:11 PM

my candle is lit also!

2hsmommy

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:25 PM

Just lit mine :D

Thanks VB for keeping the updates coming :)

jennifersw

Jul. 19, 2006, 01:52 PM

Fingers and hooves crossed! xoxoxoxo

chicagogirl

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:02 PM

I don't know if this article has made the rounds - I try to keep up on the postings, but miss a couple of pages here and there:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13937551/

luveventing

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:03 PM

no news yet for today? or did I miss it? its making me nervous not hearing anything! I am so used to all the great daily information from all the website and news sites!

I'm EBO

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:07 PM

Could someone give me the name of the trf fund drive? There are several mentioned on the website, and I'd like to donate to the one with matching funds by the Murell people.

Thanks.

Fancy

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:11 PM

no news yet for today? or did I miss it? its making me nervous not hearing anything! I am so used to all the great daily information from all the website and news sites!

Yeahbut, no news is really good news. At about 6:30am there was a one-liner to the effect that the Big Horse had a quiet, restful night. That's what we wish for--about 100 of those bulletins laid end-to-end. At that point, the "bad" right foot should be healed enough that the "good" left foot is the worst problem. He won't be out of the woods by then, but the trees will be MUCH smaller.

:cool: :cool: :D :D :cool: :cool:

eggbutt

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:32 PM

WOW! Take a look at this article just posted on www.msnbc.com: (http://www.msnbc.com:)

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13937551/from/RS.4/

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:46 PM

Update 275: Just spoke to Peter Brette, who was just leaving New Bolton after his visit with Barbaro (2:45 pm). He said Bobby looked fine, was standing all square and certainly not in distress. He appears to be maintaining his comfort level. We know this is (hopefully) going to be a long road ahead, and this is all we can hope for at this stage.
Sabina Pierce left a comment (5:35 PM) which I include here:

I just thought I'd let you know I was asked to go NBC10 in Philadelphia's 10! show Thursday at 10 am to speak about my photographs of barbaro at NBC.

You can see Sabina's work at her site: Sabina Louis Pierce--Photojournalist (http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/). For those in the Philadelphia area, I hope you get a chance to tune in. Lets hope they put the content on their site.

Kenike

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:49 PM

Well, now I'm crying again....that was beautiful! Thanks, eggbut

relit my candle...#1173 in 14 countries.

No news is good news....

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:54 PM

Update 276: New Bolton's Update: Barbaro's condition unchanged (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update7-19.htm) confirms what we have heard today:

Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson reports that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro remains in stable condition with good vital signs today. "Barbaro spends several hours a day in a sling, which he has adapted to very well," said Dr. Richardson.
Slings, which were originally designed for rescuing horses, are now common in the treatment of horses with conditions that include neurological problems or muscular skeletal injuries. They have been in use for many years for long-term management of a horse's movement. "We have a lot of experience in using slings for equine support," said Dr. Richardson. "In Barbaro's case, it is a part-time aid that we use to increase his comfort level."

Sports Illustrated is running a story: Natural treasure Barbaro's grace and fighting spirit has touched us all (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/phil_taylor/07/19/barbaro/) that tries to explain our passion for Bobby (we have seen similar articles lately I think, but they are great nonetheless), an excerpt:

But maybe that's the point. Barbaro isn't human, so he exhibits none of the human failings that disappoint us in our athletes and coaches. He never put his hoof in his mouth like Ozzie Guillen, or fell in love with himself like Terrell Owens. He never held out for more money, stiffed us for an autograph, tangled with the authorities or coasted when he should have been playing hard. In fact, he gave all of himself, competing

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 02:59 PM

From that wonderful article Alex mentioned in the above post: (SI.com)

But mostly it is because we know that Barbaro deserved better than this. Competitors who perform so valiantly and so well are supposed to be rewarded, not saddled with life-threatening injury. If there was ever an athlete who had earned a better fate, it is Barbaro. Despite the current optimism from the medical team treating him, there is still no guarantee that this will end well for him.
So don't think you're odd for caring this much about a horse, or for crossing your fingers or saying a little prayer the next time he crosses your mind. Like a horse in full gallop, his mane flying in the wind, it's the most natural thing in the world.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 05:04 PM

Group *barba* has 1,209 candles from 14 countries!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 05:33 PM

Continued thanks to Alex & Tim~

Update 277: Kathy Anderson just called. She is running late (she has a couple more horses to see before she can get to NBC) but wanted me to know that Dr. Scott Palmer visited Bobby today. He is a vet from New Jersey Equine and had not seen Barbaro since the Preakness. Kathy said that Dr. Palmer was pleased with Bobby, he felt he was bright and comfortable.
Bernie, from Kennett Florist left this comment:

Alie, Steve, and I just got back from NBC and spoke with Dr. Sweeney, the nursing & office staff and the mood there was really happy. He's doing well and they REALLY appreciates the goodie baskets and chocolates and cookies. They told us that Bobby LOVES the carrots & horsey treats. Dr. Sweeney said to us as she was holding the door for us, "He's having another good day."

didgery

Jul. 19, 2006, 05:33 PM

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 05:38 PM

didgery~
Way back, when the Barbaro incident occured, there was talk about his potential breeding soundness, and what you cited above is exactly what I remember being in several articles.

I'd leave it as stated.

Katy Watts

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:15 PM

I really did hold my tongue for a long time, but it's really bugging me. I know I am fixated on horses with laminitis associated with insulin resistance, and this case is about too much weight on a good foot, and TB's tend to be more insulin sensitive, but.....
Stress, surgery, infection, can all CAUSE transitory insulin resistance. No one knows the mechanism by which insulin resistance causes laminitis, but as the owner of 2 insulin resistant, chronically laminitic ponies, I am going NUTS hearing about feeding this horse peppermints and fruit and carrots, and fresh grass and all these treats. It would SURELY set off mine into a laminitis attack. Has anyone tested his insulin/glucose levels lately? Yes, the horse needs to eat but there are a LOT safer sources of calories than peppermints and carrots. Why do we think sugary treats are good for sick horses?
Katy

Oakleigh

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:15 PM

ivy62

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:23 PM

Like a horse in full gallop, his mane flying in the wind, it's the most natural thing in the world.
__________________
If anyone remembers Ruffian they said she woke from the anesthesia like she was running, subsequently the euthanized her to run free without reins to hold her back and no competitors to race just to run wild as she always wanted to do. The idea that she is buried in the infield at Belmont facing the finish line is just were she belongs and very appropriate.
I hope that Barbaro's fate is a different one and he runs like the wind for us to see not just imagine.....
Jingles from Ny

lizathenag

Jul. 19, 2006, 06:46 PM

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/phil_taylor/07/19/barbaro/

I haven't figured out how to post pieces of writing without doing copywrite violations!

annikak

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:11 PM

I think that says it all in the msnbc article. Thanks everyone for the links- they are great-
Keep at it you great horse you!

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:14 PM

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/phil_taylor/07/19/barbaro/

I haven't figured out how to post pieces of writing without doing copywrite violations!

The ethically correct way to cut and paste others copyrighted work is to quote a portion of thier writings or article and provide a link. In this way you provide proper credit and traffic to whatever website that is hosting the original work.

Here is an example of your article:

Natural treasure
Barbaro's grace and fighting spirit has touched us all

You are not alone. The rest of us feel it too -- the need to stop what we're doing and pay attention, at least for a moment, every time we hear Barbaro's name in a news report or see it in a headline.

There is something about this horse and his fight for life that touches us. Every update brings either a sense of dread, that the end has arrived, or of relief, that he just might survive after all.

It surprises you a bit, doesn't it? That you care this much? After all, you really don't know Barbaro. You may be one of the millions of sports fans who had never heard of him before he won the Kentucky Derby in May. Or maybe you first became aware of him when he snapped his right hind leg two weeks later in the Preakness, which led to the laminitis, the painful tissue inflammation that now threatens his life.

.... snip ....

to read the rest of the article visit http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/phil_taylor/07/19/barbaro/

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:14 PM

From Alex:

Update 278: Kathy Anderson called again after her visit to Bobby (7:20 pm). She concurs with what we have heard today. She did provide some insight into Bobby's current routine. As she was leaving, Bobby was being prepared to leave his sling. Basically it seems he spends about 12 hours in his sling and 12 hours out of his sling. When he leaves his sling he tends to sniff around his stall, prepare himself, and then lay down for about five hours. Before they release Bobby from the sling, the staff spend some time preparing the stall with extra straw etc.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:20 PM

For those interested in Barbaro treats:
This was posted earlier:

............Bernie, from Kennett Florist left this comment:

Alie, Steve, and I just got back from NBC and spoke with Dr. Sweeney, the nursing & office staff and the mood there was really happy. He's doing well and they REALLY appreciates the goodie baskets and chocolates and cookies. They told us that Bobby LOVES the carrots & horsey treats. Dr. Sweeney said to us as she was holding the door for us, "He's having another good day."..............

Cartier

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:25 PM

Virginia Bred
Thank you so much for all your posts. We’ve appreciated being able to follow Barbaro’s progress… but I’ve gotta admit, like Oakleigh, we too thought that you were out there each morning meeting Mike on the riding path … jotting down thoughts and impressions.

So, I guess I should be saying, "thank you" for your contributions and a HUGE "Thank you" to whomever you are/were quoting. :)

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:34 PM

Cartier, I only wish I was that close!

As posted a page back:

This just sent to me through e-mail by my buddy, Alex! (Thanks so much, Alex)

"randee, thanks for posting our reports, i have followed your posts as
VB! its great to spread the word! cheers, alex"

I decided to include this on this COTH thread I started several months ago to assure all readers I have the permission of the author, owner, etc. of the Tim Woolley site. I had received a couple of PM's suggesting I wasn't giving credit, etc. and in fact I had been. I have been in regular contact with Fair Hill, and wanted to assure any posters that I do, indeed have "permission" to share the word about this amazing and wonderful and courageous horse.

Cartier

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:44 PM

Virginia Bred,

As we can all see… this thread is huge, the interest in Barbaro is huge. In your PM to me you mentioned that you had posted early on that you had “given credit to Tim Woolley's racing Blog.” That is wonderful… :yes: I guess I didn’t see that post (there are over 1000) and had the impression over time that you were actually speaking with Mike. It’s no big deal… bottom line here is that I appreciate the information you have posted (irrespective of where it is coming from). SO again, thank you for your contribution… and (again), thank you to others who have made it possible to follow this story. :)

Cubs

Jul. 19, 2006, 07:52 PM

Wait until next year!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:11 PM

From Bloodhorse.com
'We're in a Marathon,' Says Barbaro's Vet
The Associated Press
Date Posted: 7/19/2006 6:54:50 PM
Last Updated: 7/19/2006 7:28:36 PM

By DAN GELSTON
AP Sports Writer
Day to day, for six straight days now, the reports on Barbaro have been good. Good vitals, good attitude, stable.
Dr. Dean Richardson is looking way beyond those daily updates, however.
"His condition is not likely to change really fast any time soon," said Richardson, the chief surgeon attending the Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner at the New Bolton Center. "We're in a marathon at this point.
"The issue is months, not days," he said Wednesday. "He has a long, long way to go."
As most racing fans know, the 3-year-old colt is recovering from a shattered right hind leg, which broke in three places shortly after the start of the Preakness (gr. I) on May 20, and severe laminitis in his left hind leg.
During a press conference last week, Richardson said the horse's prognosis for recovery was "poor," especially since most of the left rear hoof was cut away because of the often-fatal disease.
That hasn't changed.
"I'd be laughed out of the profession if I said this horse's prognosis is anything but poor," he said during a brief telephone interview from the center.
Richardson said Barbaro's condition shouldn't take any sudden turns -- for better or worse -- because it takes a long time to recover from laminitis.
"It is possible he could have a bad night, but it could be just a bad hour and we wouldn't go crazy about that," Richardson said.
He also said the shattered right hind leg, reconstructed with pins and plates, is "going in the right direction."
"Every day I'm encouraged," Richardson said. "No one wants to quit on this horse. No one wants him to suffer."
Casts on the horse's hind legs were changed Monday, and Richardson said the left one will be changed often so the laminitis can be treated. So far, he likes the way the hoof is healing.
"It looked as healthy as you could have expected it to look. I was very pleased," he said. "If you're not used to looking at that sort of thing, it might not look healthy."
Barbaro needs to regrow that hoof if he is to have any shot of walking -- albeit with a hitch in his gait. That might not happen until early next year, if at all.
"We're still talking months, many, many months," Richardson said. "We're talking about six-plus months, as far as how long to go if he grows one. The next few weeks, that's very important."

http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=34498

lisann

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:26 PM

It makes me cry....and hope.....and pray.....God willing, I will someday breed a TB mare to a pasture and breeding shed sound Barbaro.

Ghazzu

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:28 PM

evenstar

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:38 PM

Thanks, Ghazzu. I was just at a loss how to answer that.

Seal Harbor

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:45 PM

I hope Barbaro recovers just like everyone here hopes he does.
I don't know how much money was spent thus far for his recovery, but that's his owner's business. Let's say the amount is approaching the million dollar mark. Or maybe just a half a million. I can't help thinking how many winter coats that could buy the homeless, the needy or elderly. I could be wrong about this. Maybe there isn't a lessson here. Just a thought.

It's not a million. Veterinary care is much cheaper than human medicine. Dr Richardson had stated early on that it would be in the tens of thousands to get him well again barring complications not the hundreds of thousands.

So should they never buy another race horse or breed another? Since Dynaformer's stud fee is not cheap, and some yearlings sell for $500K, and keeping them in training is REALLY expensive and nominating for races is really expensive, maybe they can give it all to the homeless or elderly instead is that what you are suggesting? It's their money, it's their horse, they should be allowed to do what they please for the horse that has given them and us so much. With the tax bracket the Jackson's are in they probably already DO give to more charities than any of us. It's not public money they are using it's their own.

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:51 PM

Thanks for the updates VB, on Barbaro's condition. Big hugs and positive thoughts for him, his owner and trainer. But, I have to tell you I am now totally confused. Are you going to Fair Hill every day to get the info on Barbaro? I was thinking that you spoke with Michael Matz daily. A couple of posts on the last few pages make it sound like you aren't at Fair Hill. Can you please explain?

Oakleigh

Here is how the chain of events happen that result in VB posting updates on COTH.

Early each morning Dr. Dean Richardson calls Michael Matz and updates him of Barbaro's condition. Tim Woolley Racing Stable train horses at the same facility as Michael Matz (Fair Hill) and Tim or Alex who works for Tim track down Michael Matz every morning and get an updated report from him. Tim or Alex then call the report into an internet volunteer who immediately posts it on their site at www.timwoolleyracing.com.

VB cuts and pastes Tim and Alex's reports on this thread on COTH.

There was a news report on a local station that tells the story of how www.timwoolleyracing.com got started and the huge upsurge in internet traffic since the daily updates were included since Barbaro's injury. To find out more about Tim Woolley and their incredible efforts to get the news to Barbaro's fans immediately upon their finding out from Michael Matz each morning and throughout the day visit this site and watch the video! http://wjz.com/local/local_story_199150343.html

And Tim Woolley loves traffic to his website (that is why he had Alex design it) and it has LOTS of Great Barbaro pics, video's and all of the comments left by visitors since Barbaro's injury. You can leave comments or your thanks to them there as well... www.timwoolleyracing.com

Link to Tim Woolley Racing video: http://wjz.com/local/local_story_199150343.html

Laurel&HollyFarm

Jul. 19, 2006, 08:59 PM

I hope Barbaro recovers just like everyone here hopes he does.
I don't know how much money was spent thus far for his recovery, but that's his owner's business. Let's say the amount is approaching the million dollar mark. Or maybe just a half a million. I can't help thinking how many winter coats that could buy the homeless, the needy or elderly. I could be wrong about this. Maybe there isn't a lessson here. Just a thought.

Sorry, to be so offended by your remarks but:

First he is a horse not a human and as expensive as vet care seems to those of us that need it, it is no where near the expense of providing the same type of care for humans.

Second, we are on a horse board not a shelter for homeless, needy or elderly humans. We choose to have animals and we have a responsibility for their well being. Animals don't have a choice to take care of themselves, humans do. I will not get into a discussion of how humans end up homeless or needy, they can make choices for themselves, animals can not.

The Jacksons brought Barbaro into this world and they are doing everything they can by him which should be applauded not criticised in my opinion.

Please PM me if you would like to discuss futher as I don't want to take away from this thread that provides information on the wellfare of this very special horse.

Off my soap box for the moment.

mairzeadoats

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:01 PM

VirginiaBred

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:04 PM

DMK

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:08 PM

I hope Barbaro recovers just like everyone here hopes he does.
I don't know how much money was spent thus far for his recovery, but that's his owner's business. Let's say the amount is approaching the million dollar mark. Or maybe just a half a million. I can't help thinking how many winter coats that could buy the homeless, the needy or elderly. I could be wrong about this. Maybe there isn't a lessson here. Just a thought.
As others have noted, it is no where near a million. Even human beings with catastrophic injuries requiring months of intensive hospitalization rarely come close to that figure. Horses? Not likely.

But here's a medical dollar factoid. The vast majority of healthcare dollars are spent on aging people in the final months of their life, even though one of the absolute truths is that when we are old we die, regardless of what anyone does to try and change that fact. "Nobody gets out alive" is a medical truth.

If we were to speak pragmatically and without passion on the subject of end of life care, there's enough money to make one hell of a dent in dire poverty right there (think "billions"). But we speak to this subject as the wives, husbands, daughter, sons and grandchildren of such people, and I don't think anyone begrudges those decisions we make in conjunction with our family members (at least as it relates to ending world hunger). The Jacksons deserve equal respect in this regard.

Just a thought.

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 09:49 PM

Well, adventurebeach got some of that right, but failed to relay about the e-mails and other personal posts I get that she doesn't know about (cause they're to me, not for the entire viewing area) so she is second guessing.

Not sure why adventurebeach felt compelled to answer a question that was directed to me, anyway.
I had answered Oakleigh already, not that adventurebeach (or anyone else) needed to know that!

I did, in fact copy and past from an e-mail to me from Alex (who writes on Tim's site), encouraging me to pass on the posts here on COTH (not that I needed to share that, either) due to Adventurebeaches persistant comments.

This thread is for factual updates and insider information, as I posted several months ago. Please leave it to that.

I answered the question because readers are obviously confused as who is the actual writer of the updates posted daily and you didn't clarify the situation when directly asked about it.

My message to you in a private pm was to consider giving full credit with their full name with a full link (including www. so it can be clicked upon and a reader can visit their site) when you cut and pasted his words verbatim. This is proper protocol and internet etiquette throughout the world on the web and would have been very beneficial to Tim Woolley Racing... and a very nice thing to do.

I think all of us should give credit where credit is due and when we cut and paste what others have written or is copyrighted on their websites provide a link back to them.

Boston Chicken

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:16 PM

I am just thrilled to get the updates. FWIW, it's always been clear to me where the information is coming from.

THANK YOU, VB!!!!!!

Levi's owner

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:19 PM

Thank you Virginia Bred! All of your updates have been keeping me informed.

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:25 PM

I also have GREATLY appreciated VB's efforts and immediate posts whenever she finds anything of interest on any website with info on Barbaro! I told her that privately...

however, I still think it is IMPORTANT that we as members of COTH and grateful friends of Tim Woolley Racing give them full credit and link when anything is cut and pasted from their site!

I hope everyone understands that I am not attacking VB or suggesting in anyway that she slow down in cutting and pasting the updates! I am sure Alex and Tim want her to continue to do so as well...but as a courtesy it should be perfectly clear who wrote the updates and a link given immediately thereafter in the future.

There are new people visiting this thread everyday and they will not easily figure it out...heck, we have two regular posters who just posted that they believed the updates were being reported in the first person by VB.

Susan P

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:27 PM

VB, for whatever it's worth, my farm is just over 5 minutes from the training center if you need anything done in person. I often go to Prizzio's for food. I'm just a few miles away. My house is still in the West Grove zip code so I'm driving to my farm daily for my horses (waiting for the hubby to reduce properties by selling this house and building on the farm) so my point is, if you need something picked up or delivered there let me know. Send an email, my PM box is full. Barnmom45@aol.com I know my way around the training center, I've hauled a friend's horse there to breeze. My neighbor trains there too.

2Dogs

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:32 PM

thank you VB!

and as a MD, one can only second guess how dollars should be spent on any " last chance" situation. In the human version, the most dollars in any health care system are spent in the last 6 months of life - that is for our two legged friends. Want to fuss - have at it.
here's the thing - the owners are paying for this and they have the right to spend every last dollar they own to do so.

excowgirlie

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:45 PM

Laurel&HollyFarm

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:52 PM

I have never had a question where the updates were coming from. You have been very up front from the start and reinterated several times. I was a bit confused until recently that it was Alex that was the main voice and not Tim :yes:. Now all is straight in my universe :D.

tradewind

Jul. 19, 2006, 10:55 PM

adventurebeachetc..everyone here knew where the updates were coming from..and many of us have been to the web site of tim's on our own..i think you being the self appointed police of this thread and taking away from its main purpose indicates that you need to get a life...and leave this thread alone...sorry to be harsh but that is the way i feel about it...and please dont lecture me about common courtesy in regards to the web..my husband is a computer game designer and was once a vice pres at AOL

Utah

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:11 PM

Second tradewind. Geez Louise...
Thank you, VB, I check a couple of times a day AND go visit Tim's site (as a result of links posted by VB!) frequently, love the pics.

Arguments could be made money-wise comparing both end of life and BEGINNING of life care- ever seen a NICU bill for a 24 week infant? Or the money hospitals eat taking care of ...oh never mind, not the place for this debate. This care is costing FAR less than it would in the human world. Millions, hahaha

gubbyz

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:26 PM

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:36 PM

I figured out a long way back the VB was posting from Tim's website along with bloodhorse and every tidbit of info available, consolidating it for us and posting, and I never assumed she was taking credit for anything, just being nice enough to pass all the information along to us...something she didnt have to do, and I hope nobody is being negative about her intentions...VB please continue to do so, I , along with lots of others, greatly appreciate it..also I hope we dont fuel the fire to the poster who wrote about the money spent on bobbys treatment...any animal lover with the means would do so...lets not diverge away from the original intention of this thread, which is to keep us all updated on his conditions, where ever the sources originate..thanks again VB!!

Thats my point... people were having to "figure it out" as there was no actual link as there links to almost every other cut and paste from other sites.

Nothing negative...just a suggestion that I thought would be a nice gesture for the writers of the updates.

adventurebeachetc..everyone here knew where the updates were coming from..and many of us have been to the web site of tim's on our own..i think you being the self appointed police of this thread and taking away from its main purpose indicates that you need to get a life...and leave this thread alone...sorry to be harsh but that is the way i feel about it...and please dont lecture me about common courtesy in regards to the web..my husband is a computer game designer and was once a vice pres at AOL

Maybe you are right everyone on this thread knows how to find Tim Woolley Racing without a link (except Oakleigh and Cartier!) and knew that Tim Woolley and Alex were the authors of the updates. In the coming months we will have thousands of more visitors to this thread and maybe they will instantly figure it out too without a clear credit and link!

Again, this is not an attack on VB...it was a simple suggestion and it all of the Computer and Internet Miss Manners out there will tell you it is the right thing to do!

By the way, I think that is great that your husband is a game designer and used to work for AOL! My daughter is sophmore at Ringling School of Art and is an Animation major, my son is law student at UF, my sister sits on the Supreme Court of Georgia and a friend of mine was the CEO of Ultima Online ;) ... but I still think giving a link to Tim's site when he is quoted would be nice.

adventurebeachponies

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:41 PM

Yea, thanks VB, because of you I do not have to search all different places to get updates, I can just come here. Adventurebeachponies, if you do not want to start anything, then back off and let us enjoy everything VB has done so far. Who cares where it comes from as long as we get it. And I do not think VB was taking any credit for any of it. Now back to Barbaro.....

OK... I am being misunderstood here.

I am NOT suggesting that VB is TAKING credit undeservedly! I am suggesting that when she or anyone else cuts and pastes from anyone's site that a link should be given back to the site that it came from... thats all.

And I am perfectly willing to stop defending and explaining my position if everyone wants to drop the subject and talk about Barbaro.

VB can link or not link as she chooses as her posting style is her decision alone... and again, I want to emphasis that I do enjoy and appreciate her updates as much as anyone and I have told her this many times in the past and recently. It has been wonderful having one place to go and have all things Barbaro together under one thread and she has put a great deal of time and effort into this as we all know.

Freebird!

Jul. 19, 2006, 11:47 PM

adventurebeachetc..everyone here knew where the updates were coming from..

As stated above, no they didn't.

and many of us have been to the web site of tim's on our own..i think you being the self appointed police of this thread and taking away from its main purpose indicates that you need to get a life...and leave this thread alone...sorry to be harsh but that is the way i feel about it...

Wow, that IS kinda harsh...of course not near as harsh as the PM I received not long after I first posted a link to Tim's website, not long ago....

and please dont lecture me about common courtesy in regards to the web..my husband is a computer game designer and was once a vice pres at AOL

Man, where's the bowing down smilie when you need it....

For what it's worth, I don't think ABP was trying to pick on anyone - the way I read it, she was just trying to give credit, where credit was due - which is the same thing I was aiming for when I first posted the link to Tim's site. Now, back to Barbaro.....

I'm EBO

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:31 AM

Hahaha--At first, I thought that VB was ALEX! And I thought, "Wow, she must be some kind of rider to exercise all those horses and post the updates, too." I knew the info was coming from Tim's, but I was muddled as to the method of getting it to us.

I assumed that VB/Alex was female, so was sort of surprised when I saw Alex up on Randy. :lol: I thought, "Wow, that's some set of shoulders! She must be a swimmer, too."

Finally, finally I figured out that VB was transmitting to us from Alex (and that explained the shoulders).

Regardless, I'm very happy to have such good updates. Glad to have a good laugh at myself. Glad that our B-boy seems to be so comfortable. Extremely glad that the Jacksons have enough money to treat Barbaro, and agree whatshername ought to find a forum which specializes in downtrodden two-leggers if spending such sums on a horse upsets her.

tma

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:06 AM

While this is my first post here on COTH, I have been following the reports here on Barbaro for many many weeks now. VB, thank you so very much for your dedication!

Regarding the cost of treating Barbaro, I will share a little story; there is a horse next door to us that in Sept of 2004 somehow smashed a rear P-1 into nine pieces, and dislocated that fetlock joint....overnight, in his paddock.

There was nowhere left to apply a plate where Barbaro has the ones he has to reconstruct the bone and to fuse the joint. In the case of this horse, an "external device" along with casts had to be employed to give the area (with a number of pins and so on) any chance to heal/fuse.

The owners do not have the financial resources available that the owners of Barbaro have.

But now, almost two years (several procedures, many casts, special shoes and over six months' hospitalization) later, this horse is playing in his paddock, clearly enjoys his gentle walks about the property with his "pet humans", and being the king of his domain. :) He clearly has adapted to his limitations, and is enjoying life. There still is some way to go, but he's come a very long way.

Now, almost two years later, the financial cost to the owners stands between $20,000 and $25,000.

Fancy

Jul. 20, 2006, 03:47 AM

Thank you, VB, for this thread. :) I appreciate not having to run everywhere to find information. And I appreciate even more that many other people have also contributed links. This is the best single source of information about Bobby I know of.

I wonder if the hospitalization costs for Bobby's leg will ever approach the purse he won at the Kentucky Derby? Anybody remember what his cut of the $2mil was? Should cover the hospital fees nicely, wouldn't you think? Yes, I think the Jacksons can afford to write the checks to New Bolton.

:yes: :yes:

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 06:22 AM

For what's it's worth (one last time), Alex at Tim Woolley racing, said himself in an e-mail to me, that he has been following my postings and knew me as VB, and he had no problem with the way I was presenting them. I figured if the author was happy, so was I. Thank everyone for nice comments. On with Barbaro!!!

Thanks Alex & Tim:

Update 279: Dean Richardson was interviewed yesterday (wednesday) for this article in the Bloodhorse (and no doubt other media): 'We're in a Marathon,' Says Barbaro's Vet (http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=34498), the following are Dean's quotes:

Dr. Dean Richardson is looking way beyond those daily updates, however.
"His condition is not likely to change really fast any time soon," said Richardson, the chief surgeon attending the Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner at the New Bolton Center. "We're in a marathon at this point.
"The issue is months, not days," he said Wednesday. "He has a long, long way to go."

and

"I'd be laughed out of the profession if I said this horse's prognosis is anything but poor," he said during a brief telephone interview from the center.
Richardson said Barbaro's condition shouldn't take any sudden turns -- for better or worse -- because it takes a long time to recover from laminitis.
"It is possible he could have a bad night, but it could be just a bad hour and we wouldn't go crazy about that," Richardson said.

and

"Every day I'm encouraged," Richardson said. "No one wants to quit on this horse. No one wants him to suffer."
Casts on the horse's hind legs were changed Monday, and Richardson said the left one will be changed often so the laminitis can be treated. So far, he likes the way the hoof is healing.
"It looked as healthy as you could have expected it to look. I was very pleased," he said. "If you're not used to looking at that sort of thing, it might not look healthy."

and

"We're still talking months, many, many months," Richardson said. "We're talking about six-plus months, as far as how long to go if he grows one. The next few weeks, that's very important."

Mike Schuh, the reporter for our WJZ (http://wjz.com/local/local_story_199150343.html) piece left this comment:

My email is: schuhm@wjz.com With Alex and Tim as my subjects... how could I go wrong? With Fair Hill at dawn as the back drop... every image was more beautiful than the next. As a storyteller, everything lined up... from the weather (hot & dry), to Alex & Tim's schedule (flexible), to the right photographer (Joel Eagle) and the right video editor (Paula Gage). I'm sorry Barbaro was hurt... though I'm glad to have made the acquaintence of such cool guys as Alex, Tim, & Michael.
Thanks for your kind words about our news piece.
M i k e

And finally, for those that can watch, don't forget Sabina Pierce will be on Philly's NBC10 at 10 AM today, discussing her photopgrahs of Barbaro.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 06:42 AM

Just in from Alex:

Update 280: Barbaro had another comfortable night last night (wednesday). Saw Michael Matz at 6:35 this morning (thursday) as I was walking to the racetrack. He had just heard from Dr. Richardson.
updated thursday 7:00 am

Thanks again to Alex & Tim!

Fred

Jul. 20, 2006, 07:09 AM

just checking in and sending my most positive thoughts and prayers.
Every night and morning I light a candle for Bobby.
The first time, my (non-horsey but horse loving ) DH asked what's this? I told him, and now he is often the one to light the candle.

Susan P

Jul. 20, 2006, 07:09 AM

Happy Anniversary on July 14th

:D

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 07:13 AM

Oh, cool! Yup. I sure did! :)

ivy62

Jul. 20, 2006, 07:20 AM

I have faith that Barbaro has the deep conviction to win this race, my horse has been dealing with some serious issues and he refused to give up, so did I and he is doing well...It has taken the better part of three years. No he was not always comfortable but we perservered through it and so on. Some people even told me to euthanize him! So people need to leave these decisions to the powers to be and know that most of us if we had the money would do the same. but do not forget he is covered by insurance too so I am sure they are absorbing a lot of the cost.
Still jingling for Barbaro.....

J. Turner

Jul. 20, 2006, 07:38 AM

Someone above mentioned the cost of 24-week preemie. Well, Malcolm was 26 weeks, but had most of the problems of a 24 weeker. He stayed in the NICU/PICU for 5 months. The unadjusted hospital bill was $640,000. Our insurance negotiated it down to $400K+. However, that doesn't include "independent contractors", a thing you sign whenever you go to the hospital for services - anesthesia, doctors, radiology, etc. The NICU doctors were employed by Pediatrix and were $1500/day. I'm currently getting a tally so we know how close he is to his lifetime cap of 1 million. Luckily for us, any baby in Georgia under 2 lbs. 10 oz is considered disabled and qualifies for SSI Disability and therefore Medicaid so they picked up the 20% deductible. We would've been financially ruined without that.

Malcolm's surgery to correct his trachea so he can be decannulated (trach taken out), along with pre-op tests, etc. and follow ups for a year, will probably be in excess of $150,000. We wanted to go out of state, to Cincinnati Children's because the best surgeon in the world is there, but GA Medicaid doens't want to pick up the 20% even though our insurance approved it. 20% of 200,000 is what? 40K? That's about what Barbaro's bill might start out. That's not too bad in my mind. I just wish we had 40K to go to Cinci! If I had it, I'd do it for my horse and obviously my child.

I was reading a pdf file on how GA was trying to cut down on Medicaid and other state paid costs. Millions in Georgia alone are spent on preventable trips to the ER by children with respiratory attacks (like asthma). An ER visit is so expensive. Most of these kids are poor. Some of the parents smoke at home. Some can't get the kids to regular doctor visits. Some don't bring them. Some do. But much money could be saved with preventative care - making sure they have meds, a nebulizer w/ neb drugs, less expensive walk-in clinics.

Another interesting thing I found out at WIC, states bid on baby formula contracts. Millions and millions of dollars at stake. Probably half of formula dollars from WIC. Now healthcare does promote breastfeeding, but can you imagine the tax dollar savings if everyone who could breastfeed, or at least pump, did. None of the girls at the high school who have babies (that I know personally) breastfed. I know of people who have breastfed, get the WIC vouchers and sell the formula.

The Jacksons are on the board at New Bolton, I believe. They are extremely philanthropic. I read somewhere on Tim and Alex's board that instead of gifts, money could be diverted into the Barbaro fund or the fund for Mike Rea, an exercise rider from Fair Hill who had a terrible accident. I'm sure the Jacksons would agree. I bet the staff at NBC wouldn't mind the occassional treat tray, though! The vet techs and nurses sure deserve it.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 08:26 AM

HORSE RACING http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/sports/horse_racing/15079215.htm

Barbaro's ultimate prognosis to take 'months, not days'

ASSOCIATED PRESS

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. - Day to day, for six straight days now, the reports on Barbaro have been good. Good vitals, good attitude, stable. Dr. Dean Richardson is looking way beyond those daily updates, however.
"His condition is not likely to change really fast any time soon," said Richardson, the chief surgeon attending the Kentucky Derby winner at the New Bolton Center. "We're in a marathon at this point. The issue is months, not days."
The 3-year-old is recovering from a shattered right hind leg, which broke in three places shortly after the start of the Preakness on May 20, and severe laminitis in his left hind leg.
"I'd be laughed out of the profession if I said this horse's prognosis is anything but poor," he said during a brief telephone interview from the center.
Richardson said Barbaro's condition shouldn't take any sudden turns -- for better or worse -- because it takes a long time to recover from laminitis.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 08:31 AM

Barbaro devotees offer gifts, good wishes to injured horse

Kentucky Derby winner remains stable as vets monitor progress
By Sandra McKee
sun Reporter
Originally published July 20, 2006

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. // If love heals, Barbaro is getting exactly what he needs.

Multiple doses arrive every day for the Kentucky Derby winner, who is trying to recover from a shattered right rear leg and laminitis in his rear left foot, which has so far cost him 80 percent of his hoof and could possibly cost him his life.
Yesterday, in just the latest example of devotion to the horse, Carol Baccanari traveled about 135 miles hoping to get a chance to see Barbaro.

"I thought, maybe, if I put my hand on him he would get better," Baccanari said. "I'm praying for a miracle."

Meanwhile, at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, Dr. Dean Richardson yesterday reported Barbaro had another good night and remains in stable condition with good vital signs. It was his sixth consecutive positive report card.
Richardson, chief of surgery at New Bolton, said Barbaro is helped by the sling he wears several hours each day.

"He has adapted very well to the sling," Richardson said. "We have a lot of experience in using slings for equine support. In Barbaro's case, it is a part-time aid that we use to increase his comfort level."

Keeping Barbaro comfortable while he attempts to regrow his hoof and mend his broken leg is the most important aspect of his treatment at the moment.

Dr. Kathleen Anderson, Barbaro's personal veterinarian during his racing days, gets a daily morning update. She said she has been encouraged by what she has heard, although Barbaro faces an additional six months at the hospital.

"That's the most disappointing part for all concerned," Anderson said last evening. "A broken leg is almost healed now. He would have become more ambulatory and been able to go to a field and rest. Now, it's six more months. No one thought he would be hospitalized eight months."

Anderson said the three most important questions facing Barbaro now are:

• Will he get laminitis in another foot - the front or even the broken rear right one?

• Can his comfort level be maintained through the months it will take to attempt to regrow his hoof - which is like a human waiting for a lost fingernail to grow out?

• How long will the regrowing of the hoof actually take?

"But, absolutely, other horses have done it," she said. "You just don't read about it because they're not famous. But it is definitely a doable process, and it is far less unusual than the 27 screws that put his right leg back together."

Anderson also said the report earlier this week that the fusion of the pastern was unchanged was actually an encouraging report.

"It meant there was no infection," she said. "If there was an ongoing infection, it would have deteriorated."

While the medical team is doing its part with the 3-year-old in the intensive care unit, Barbaro's supporters are doing theirs here and elsewhere.

Yesterday, Baccanari got up early in her home in Pittston, near Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and drove to the King of Prussia Mall to meet her cousin Sam, who then drove her the rest of the way to Kennett Square.

"I want to see Barbaro," she said to Kathy Freeborn at the reception desk, and was very disappointed when told she could not.
"I've come an awful long way just to see him," Baccanari said.

Hospital executive director Corinne Sweeney came to console her.
"He's giving himself the best chance he can," Sweeney said. "He's resting in his sling and he's sleeping."

Since Barbaro's May 20 injury in the Preakness Stakes, Baccanari said her emotions have gone from feeling sorry for the horse to admiring his courage.

"My mother always said animals are like people, but they can't talk," she said. "Which is why I was so happy when I read about his jockey [Edgar Prado] visiting him and how Barbaro put his head on his shoulder and fell asleep. I think that visit meant a lot to Barbaro. ... He hadn't been forgotten."
In Vero Beach, Fla., Joy Markert, 62, is a receptionist in the state's Economic Self-Sufficiency Department. Every day after work, she spends hours in the local Hallmark store reading get-well and thinking-of-you cards, searching for the right ones for Barbaro.

Markert has been sending two and three cards a week since Barbaro's injury and has found remarkably fitting ones.

"No hurry, no rush, no hustle, no race ... just set yourself a leisurely pace ... and feel better soon!" said one. "Roses are red. Violets are neat ... Just can't wait until you're back on your feet!" said another. All of them are signed with love.

It isn't that Markert is a pushover for animals, or even for causes. She has no pets, is not a horse racing fan, and contributes only to Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Statue of Liberty. But she watches the Triple Crown races, "And when that horse was injured, it was just so upsetting," she said. "I intend to send him cards until he's better. I hope he does get better."

Markert and Baccanari are not alone. At Kennett Flowers, where the sign in the front yard says, "We all love you Barbaro," the staff has been overwhelmed.

"In the summer, I usually have six to eight people working. But last Friday I had 10 and today I had eight, but had to call in two more who were on standby," said Alie Berstler, who owns the shop with her husband, Stephen.

Since Barbaro's crisis last week, Berstler has used more than 150 pounds of carrots, 300-plus apples, 120 pears, a case of grapes and just about bought out the local stores' supplies of peppermints and gingersnaps.

Orders have ranged from $25 for the smallest vase of flowers up to $180 plus delivery for four dozen red roses.

"To these people, we are almost like a touchstone," said Rachell Germain, who takes many of the phone orders at Kennett Flowers. "They just want someone to talk to about their feelings for Barbaro. They're just passionate about this horse. A lady the other day cried for 35 minutes, just trying to get her order out."

sandra.mckee@baltsun.com (http://www.baltimoresun.com/about/bal-reporterfeedback,0,4526743.htmlstory?recipient=san dra.mckee@baltsun.com)

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 08:35 AM

Barbaro remains stable, but gains spring in step
By DAN GELSTON
Associated Press

Barbaro has a little spring in his sling.
The Kentucky Derby winner squirms in his own safety device, like a child trying to break free from a jumper, and he even sits on his damaged hind legs, the way dogs do when they beg for treats.
Those are encouraging signs for sure for the ailing 3-year-old colt. But the odds of Barbaro's full recovery from a severe case of laminitis and a reconstructed right hind leg are really no better than they were a week ago.
"It is important for people to understand this is not a 'routine' laminitis," Dr. Dean Richardson said Monday in a statement. "The care involved in treating a hoof with this degree of compromise is complex."
Barbaro's condition was stable Monday, his vital signs, appetite ("usual voracious style") and heart rate were normal after another comfortable night.
"We will continue to manage his pain successfully, and he is alert," Richardson said.
He said the fiberglass cast on the horse's left foot will be changed so the hoof can be treated and watched for signs of infection. Because of laminitis, a painful and often-fatal condition, 80 percent of the hoof wall was removed last week.
The cast on the colt's right hind leg — shattered shortly after the start of the Preakness Stakes on May 20 — has been changed at least four times in the last two weeks.
Through it all, Barbaro has acted downright frisky and seemed to finally figure out how to handle his confinement in intensive care at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals.
"He has learned how to adapt his posture to the sling so he can benefit from the most comfort," said Dr. Kathleen Anderson, Barbaro's attending vet when the horse was racing and stabled in trainer Michael Matz's barn at the Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Md.
"He's learning how to almost dog sit, which is good because it takes the weight off the front legs, which is, of course, our next great concern," she told The Associated Press.
Anderson left a mid-afternoon visit feeling good about the way the colt looked, though she noted that the prognosis for his recovery was still not encouraging.
"The reality is, you have to say poor at this point in time," she said. "It doesn't mean it's hopeless and I think that's the big difference."
Nearly everyone who has visited Barbaro during the past week has said the same things about his appearance: He looks bright-eyed and alert.
Anderson smiled when she described Barbaro's activity in his sling, which has been fitted to prevent sudden movements and allows him to shift his weight from side to side. The main goal is comfort.
"He was using it similar to a jolly jumper," she said. "He was almost doing like children do when they're bored, they do the jolly jumper where they kind of boing around the stall. He was boinging, boinging around the stall a little bit."
Those seemingly never-ending deliveries of apples, carrots and peppermints from fans don't seem to be going to waste, given the reports of his hearty appetite. Kennett Florist makes several deliveries a day to the hospital, its vans overflowing with roses and gourmet baskets sent from well-wishers.
"It's been very good for business, but it's been very time consuming," store owner Alie Berstler said. "These people are very, very upset."
Berstler said one fan ordered four dozen roses at a time, and estimates she has probably delivered more than 400 roses, 300 apples and 150 pounds of carrots since late last week.

www.chron.com

sporthorsefilly

Jul. 20, 2006, 08:49 AM

Thanks so much to VB and Tim for keeping us all up to date. It is the first thing I check in the morning. Great Work, deeply appreciated. :)

If there is to be a miracle, then Barbaro is working hard at it. What a fabulous job NBC is doing. While Barbaro has restful nights, I sincerely wonder if Dean Richardson has any restful nights. The weight of this recovery has to be taking its toll, especially with everyone wanting a daily report.

Big thanks to all those who help care for Barbaro, at NBC; and to his owners, trainers, exercise people and jockey for their continued love and support. This really means a great deal to everyone, especially Barbaro.

We have all been down this road, one way or another, with a horse we cared for, and we truly hope that this time the miracle will happen.

Go Barbaro!

carlo213

Jul. 20, 2006, 09:00 AM

I come to this site numerous times/day for updates on Bobby.
The insider information has been priceless.
Also love reading comments from all his supporters.
Even though I am sympathetic to others financial woes concerning medical bills
let us remember this site is for BARBARO and for all of us who care about this marvelous horse, the Jacksons and Michael Matz.
Without VB, Tim, & Alex we would all be in the dark and only receiving bits of info. through the media.
I thank ALL of them for taking the time to share with us all that they know.
Please keep up the GOOD work !!

Let's all keep lighting candles, and jingling for Bobby.
And let us support each other through this site - we all have a common thread -
our love of horses - and Barbaro has brought us together.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:00 AM

From Alex/Tim~

Update 281: Excellent article from the Baltimore Sun: Barbaro devotees offer gifts, good wishes to injured horse (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/horseracing/bal-sp.barbaro20jul20,0,1143194.story?page=1&coll=bal-sports-horse), which quotes Kathy Anderson (one of our great sources):

Dr. Kathleen Anderson, Barbaro's personal veterinarian during his racing days, gets a daily morning update. She said she has been encouraged by what she has heard, although Barbaro faces an additional six months at the hospital.
"That's the most disappointing part for all concerned," Anderson said last evening. "A broken leg is almost healed now. He would have become more ambulatory and been able to go to a field and rest. Now, it's six more months. No one thought he would be hospitalized eight months."
Anderson said the three most important questions facing Barbaro now are:
*Will he get laminitis in another foot - the front or even the broken rear right one?
* Can his comfort level be maintained through the months it will take to attempt to regrow his hoof - which is like a human waiting for a lost fingernail to grow out?
* How long will the regrowing of the hoof actually take?
"But, absolutely, other horses have done it," she said. "You just don't read about it because they're not famous. But it is definitely a doable process, and it is far less unusual than the 27 screws that put his right leg back together."
Anderson also said the report earlier this week that the fusion of the pastern was unchanged was actually an encouraging report.
"It meant there was no infection," she said. "If there was an ongoing infection, it would have deteriorated."

The article also covers other ground, a great read. The New York Post cited this site again today in its daily Barbaro update (thanks Ed Fountaine). The Bloodhorse is in Fair Hill today (I think that's what Peter told me).
A few of us are getting together early evening at the Whip (http://thewhiptavern.com/), so I really appreciate the contribution, it will be well spent. Peter and Kim (Brette), myself, Tim (and perhaps Penny), Kathy Anderson (possibly), Sabrina (photog, possibly) and others will be there. Will report back the fun we have!

Spoilsport

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:11 AM

Thanks again, VB (and everyone), for the updates. I know the odds are still against him, but I've been doing a little happy boinging myself after reading these last reports :lol: ! Just to hear that he's so smart and still playful is good news. Boing, Big Boy!

cidbad

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:26 AM

Adventurebeachponies, I found when you started posting it caused me to become confused as I did not know where you were getting your updates from. I found it particularly disturbing when you said Virginiabred "must be sleeping in". I believe you posted just so you could beat out Virginiabred. She has had prompt and accurate updates and has given credit where credit is due. If you were so worried about Virginiabred not giving credit to people why did you wait till page 57 to bring it up? Why is it that every major thread always has someone looking to turn it into a train wreck? I think it would be best if you either start another thread or just view this one. In reading your posts they do come across in a very negative and condescending tone towards Virginiabred. She has tried to keep this off the public forum by sending you and others PM to answer their questions directly. For this I give her credit. I have followed this thread since Virginiabred started it. Please for the sake of others take your opinions to her directly with PM's or just drop it. This thread is for people concerned and thinking of Barbaro not for cheap shots and personal attacks which is the way this topic is starting to go. Do everyone a favor and follow the updates, ask questions if you need to but don't ruin this for the many others of us who just want to know how he is doing and are interested in reading the many articles out there that have been written about him and wish him well.

Susan P

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:28 AM

The Whip is such a busy place. I've eaten there twice when it was still quiet, for lunch. Great atmosphere, the food is quite different, I guess it's very British. It's quite a change from the old Springfield Deli which was a verrrry interesting place too. :lol: (a little different atmosphere)

I think it's good luck to you if you can find a parking space or get into the door. I've been past there at night and people are parked everywhere. They're going to need a second story.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:38 AM

Per Alex/Tim:

Update 282: Kennett Florist left the following comment this morning:

Good morning everyone!
Alie and I just delivered a breakfast bonanza from Dunkin Donuts to the staff of NBC. We weren't even finished loading up the table that one of the doctors had set up for us before there was a stampede! (of people, not horses) The card from the gigantic basket that contained donuts, munchkins, muffins & coffee (among other goodies) was signed "FROM OUR FAMILY AT TIM WOOLLEY RACING SITE WHO LOVES BOBBY AND THOSE WHO CARE FOR HIM" but sent by a lovely TW member in KS whose name remains anonymous. ;)
Our news of Bobby is the same as everyone else's- another comfortable night. Go Bobby! Steve and Alie plan to go up this afternoon to check in with the staff about updates.
~Bernie

I just caught Sabina (http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/Barbaro.htm) on NBC10. Very cool. She clearly loves this horse, and is more enamoured by him than the human stars she has photographed! She mentioned Bobby gets a bath each saturday, he has a big aura, there's a brightness in his eyes, he's got grace, he has adapted well to his needs (sling) and he has a big will to live. These comments were interespersed throughout the interview. I hope it becomes available online, it was terrific!

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:49 AM

For those who may want to use Kennett Florist:

www.kennettflorist.net

Freebird!

Jul. 20, 2006, 10:52 AM

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:31 AM

Thanks Tim & Alex:

Update 283: New Bolton Center's press release for today: Barbaro remains stable (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update7-20.htm):

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro remains in stable condition after another restful night according to Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson. "His vital signs are good and his attitude remains positive," said Dr. Richardson. "He slept well and is comfortable this morning."

monstrpony

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:33 AM

While Barbaro has restful nights, I sincerely wonder if Dean Richardson has any restful nights. The weight of this recovery has to be taking its toll, especially with everyone wanting a daily report.

Go Barbaro!

Maybe we should all pitch in and get Dr. Richardson a hammock, styled after Barbaro's sling, to help him get some rest :D

Seriously, you're right, Barbaro isn't the only one under stress at this point. I can't stop admiring how well everyone associated with this is bearing up, at least publicly. It's inspiring to watch.

Susan P

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:35 AM

Please, let's drop all of the negative stuff on this thread, please, please. We are supportive here, and Barbaro needs our positive attitudes. Let's just forget the rest now.

Everyone who views this thread must care about Bobby and VB is a gem to come here everyday and share her valuable information so we don't spend extra time searching.

"Can't we all just get along?" :D

certifiedgirl

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:35 AM

Could someone give me the name of the trf fund drive? There are several mentioned on the website, and I'd like to donate to the one with matching funds by the Murell people.

Thanks.

Sorry it took me so long to get this info, but for anyone interested I emailed and got this answer from TRF:

"Karen,

Thank you for writing. This matching fund drive is for the Forego Fund for horse care and rescue costs. You can designate the “Murrell Foundation Matching Gift”. Thank you, Diana"

Susan P

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:38 AM

I think we should get him a adult sized Johnny Jump Up. My 30 year old son had the baby version when they first came out and I was afraid he was going to hit his head on the door frame. :lol:

Maybe we should all pitch in and get Dr. Richardson a hammock, styled after Barbaro's sling, to help him get some rest :D

Seriously, you're right, Barbaro isn't the only one under stress at this point. I can't stop admiring how well everyone associated with this is bearing up, at least publicly. It's inspiring to watch.

Spoilsport

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:52 AM

I think we should get him a adult sized Johnny Jump Up.

Wouldn't it be hilarious to send him something on behalf on the COTH BB :winkgrin: :lol: ?

Susan P

Jul. 20, 2006, 11:55 AM

Wouldn't it be hilarious to send him something on behalf on the COTH BB :winkgrin: :lol: ?

:lol: Ha ha, I use New Bolton for my vets, I know we can get it to him, it would be a riot. Surely we can get one made up. BOING!

Davignport

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:06 PM

I think all of us here on the COTH BB appreciate all the information that is being passed along to keep us updated on Bobby's condition. I know I visit Tim Wooley's site quite often and am amazed at what he has on there regarding Barbaro. What a great thing for him to do as this horse has touched everyone in such a special way. We are all in this together and many, many thanks go out to those who are getting the updates. VB, Adventurebeachponies and Tim Wooley - we APPRECIATE ALL THE EFFORTS. We need to keep the positive thoughts going. Hang in there Bobby - we all love you.

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:12 PM

Alex's been busy!!!!!!!

Update 284: Sabina Louise Pierce, Barbaro's Penn photographer (who was just on NBC10) sent me this e-mail describing her visit to Bobby yesterday (wednesday). She gave me permission to reproduce it below:

I got to see "Big B" as I like to call him, yesterday, I call him that as he is so larger than life, in spirit and in personality. He was in his sling when I came in and he was bobbing around a little sitting back like a dog..It was too dark in his stall so I couldn't get a shot of it as much as I would have liked too. He had his face in a fan that is fastened to his door, and even though the ICU is air conditioned and cool, he seemed to be enjoying the breeze. The lights were off in his stall with just some natural light filtering in from the back window so it made tough for photos, but I tried my best. I had come in with Dr. Raker, and Dr. Palmer to photograph them for Penn's alumni magazine.. Dr. Raker was very pleased to see Barbaro as he had not seen him since the week after the accident. He was happy to see him in high spirits, and full of emotion, being a typical stallion.. He smiled a lot, and said Big B was really bright in his eye. It was good to hear from such an expert!
Barbaro let us enter his stall for a few shots, exacting his toll of carrots and sweets that we all were glad to give him.. He is funny, he has so much to choose from with all the treats coming from admirers that he is fickle, one minute wanting a green peppermint, the next a sugar cube, and then a few baby carrots.. I always try to have something in my pocket for him being so patient with me, but with his wide array of tastes these days, I found myself begging through the door for something different to wet his appetite. He humored us all putting his ears up for a few seconds as I coaxed him with my kind words and snaps of the shutter and he enjoyed being scratched behind his ears and under his forelock. He seems to know me and my camera, even though I'm not an everyday visitor, and will let me enter his stall willingly these days with out too much of a threat of a peck.. which Dr. Raker pointed out to me any emotion, a threat of a nip, or a sweet nuzzle is positive. It shows he is full of plenty of life for the good fight. After I left Barbaro yesterday, I went for a ride on my mare and she was ancy to run.. I let her go on an open stretch and she ran like the wind.. Well, as fast as her little quarter horse feet could take us gaining speed until her body was in a full stretch. I cheered her on. Afterwards, as we walked it off, I could only imagine what it would have been like to have been on Barbaro.
Cheers, Sabina

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:16 PM

What an amazing post Update 284 was. It made me cry.

Indy

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:29 PM

That's a very good update!
What a fighter...what a clown :)

FirstCry

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:32 PM

What an amazing post Update 284 was. It made me cry.

Ditto:sadsmile:

ponymom64

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:36 PM

VB - again I wanted to thank you for all your hard work keeping us updated on Barbaro. If it weren't for you, many of us would not have one place to go to get these updates. I am sorry for some of the mean spirited remarks that I have recently read here - I hope that you will not allow a few snarky posters to bother you. I, for one, am grateful for your efforts on behalf of this great horse.

flshgordon

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:37 PM

That last update made me teasr up as well!!!:sadsmile: :sadsmile:

But then I got back to thinking of him in his Johnny Jump up and I am all smiles again....that is the cutest image in my head!:winkgrin:

melliebay Aefvue Farms Chesapeake Bay

Jul. 20, 2006, 12:54 PM

Thanks, VB for all the updates!

ABP, keep your negativity to yourself, as it's not wanted here.

Duffy

Jul. 20, 2006, 01:01 PM

Wow - some people!!!:eek:

Anyway, this is one of the first places I come to when online, and check it as frequently as I can. Others look to me for information as well and I'm able to give it, thanks to VB's connections and her timely postings. THANK YOU, VB!!!! :yes:

Onward...

More jingles for Bobby, you boinging boy!!!

2hsmommy

Jul. 20, 2006, 01:06 PM

VB, you've got a heart of gold to continue this! Snarky posters leave it alone. This thread is for updates and good well wishes.

Thank you again VB! Prayers and jingles for Barbaro continue :)

eggbutt

Jul. 20, 2006, 01:16 PM

Just lit two more candles....super thanks for the 284 update! It was wonderful!

I wonder if I'll still be able to hear how Bobby's doing 6 months from now when he's home and out of the hospital? I've grown so attached to him and, like others, come to this forum first thing every morning and several times throughout the day to check on him. Once he's back home I will miss the frequent updates on his continued progress.....see, just trying to think forward and imagine him happy in his pasture, gimpy or not, enjoying life in the winter sunshine.

Thank you Virginiabred and all others for all the positive updates. I am learning to skip over the negative personal ones and focus only on the posts that pertain to Team Barbaro!!!

Kenike

Jul. 20, 2006, 01:29 PM

Wow, I can't believe it's been a week since we heard that word! Each little step forward is such a great thing...

VB, I'm also in great thanks to the work you've done. I fell into the snarky poster's hands in the last set of them, but we don't need to let them ruin it for now. We're all very aware, and we're all jingling like mad

Go Barbaro! My candle is still lit :)

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:01 PM

I don't know if anyone else caught this. Last Friday, Barbaro received a post on the UPenn website from a very important person. I 've pasted the post here:

************************************************** ****************************************

"Dear Barbaro, I made an agreement with God last night. If you recover from this, I will literally eat my 10 gallon cowboy hat - right on national television. This is no joke. Our nation needs you.
George W. Bush, 60; Washington, DC, USA "

http://www.vet.upenn.edu/barbaro/messageboard.php

Cindeye

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:02 PM

Giant CA sized jingles continue for Barbaro and the entire team supporting his recovery.

I read this thread every day and have posted on it only once or twice...BUT, now I feel compelled to post...WOULD EVERYONE PLEASE QUIT. I had to wade through 3 pages of bitching until I could get the update.

VB - you're an amazing resource and I truly appreciate all you've done to keep us all updated. Out here in CA, it's Barb-a-what? Thankfully, I have this thread to keep me updated.

Fancy

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:05 PM

eggbutt

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:07 PM

"Dear Barbaro, I made an agreement with God last night. If you recover from this, I will literally eat my 10 gallon cowboy hat - right on national television. This is no joke. Our nation needs you.
George W. Bush, 60; Washington, DC, USA "

Really? Seriously??? Now I have one more reason to prayer harder for Bobby to recover!!! Of course, let's define "recover" since we'll never live long enough the see the hat eaten even if Bobby lives to a ripe old age! Can you imagine the spin that will be put on that one??!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:08 PM

Yup. Link provided...........................

summerhorse

Jul. 20, 2006, 02:09 PM

Could some of you with more info about or knowledge of Barbaro's potential future soundness read this passage and tell me if it sounds accurate to me? It was copied from Barbaro's Wikipedia entry and it seems to make a rather large presumption (that Barbaro will be able to cover a great many mares when he recovers) and also to cast a critical eye on the Jacksons' motives.

"Future value

If Barbaro recovers, the injury should not prevent him from breeding, and his value as a stud will probably be very high, provided the injury itself is not traced to a heritable predisposition.[11] Owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson have all the possibilities covered with insurance policies on both Barbaro's life and on his stallion potential, but the horse's earnings at stud are likely to be significantly higher than the payout of either policy. [12]"

I'm not "in the know" enough to edit Barbaro's article myself but I thought someone here might have a more balanced view with which to replace this passage. The beauty of Wikipedia lies therein!

Actually it is probably correct. IF he recovers the bones should be fine, the hoof should be fine and he should be able to cover a normal book of mares (say 100 not the abnormal coolmore books) and at a guess of say $75,000 a pop that's $7.5 million in ONE YEAR. (He might start out as "low" as $40,000 but I doubt it with his pedigree AND being America's sweetheart). Even if he only lived a few years and had complications or another break (a la Hoist The Flag, Boitron, etc) that's $37.5 million in 5 years. 75 million in 10 years assuming he is any good. NO idea what if any fertility insurance they might have though, I think that usually requires a horse to actually be heading TO stud to get a policy. But his life insurance policy would be substantial but not at the coverage he would have if he was recovered and having a stallion deal set up. And certainly nothing compared to his potential if he ends up being a GOOD stallion.

The hard part is GETTING him there. Some horses recover only partway and they do have endless problems (Exbourne) and have to be put down within a few years. But if he recovers fully the leg won't be pretty but it should be functional. There are TONS of breeding TBs out there with fusions. Tons with laminities and/or founder too I guess if you want to get technical. And they don't have NBC taking care of them...

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 03:05 PM

Thanks Alex/Tim:

Update 285: You can catch Sabina's NBC10 piece, it is now online (http://www.nbc10.com/index.html).

Fancy

Jul. 20, 2006, 03:17 PM

I read this thread every day and have posted on it only once or twice...BUT, now I feel compelled to post...WOULD EVERYONE PLEASE QUIT. I had to wade through 3 pages of bitching until I could get the update.

Amen! :sadsmile: I come here for updates--please take your complaints to a different thread. Thankyouverymuch. :yes:

VirginiaBred

Jul. 20, 2006, 03:58 PM

Thanks to Tim & Alex:

Update 286: A couple of comments have cited more sources for Barbaro pictures, the sources are: Deborah Tracy-Kral (http://www.quarterpole.com/gallery/album52?page=1) and Turfangels.com (http://www.turfangels.com/gallery/search.php?searchstring=Barbaro). The following story was left in the comments, I truly hope it does not offend anyone, I thought it was heartwarming:

Last evening a friend and I were on our usual Wednesday evening ride. He had his grandson with him which was unusual. This boy was a knotheaded little cowboy in every sense... riding a little one eyed pony that we got a couple of years ago from people that didn't need a horse in the first place. For that matter, all of our horses came and still come form places like that. But anyway, sometime around 7, Cam asked his Pa, "ain't it time to pray for Barbaro?" This embarrased his Pa I could tell, and took him aback as we had never even discussed Barbaro. I spoke up and told him yes sir,it is. We dismounted and bowed and prayed for Bobby. Two old knotheads and one young one ....and three horses that shouldn't be around anymore. Barbaro has indeed touched many many lives and we are so grateful. Daily prayers and best wishes and prayers from the Gates of Eden Farms.

Posted by: David at July 20, 2006 04:53 PM
OK, off to The Whip. I think it will be a good turn out, and I am hoping it includes people who may have visited Bobby today so I can provide an update later.