05/21/2026
Got You Day- March 4th 2025
Elm Creek Nebraska
BLM Holding Facility
The day we picked Cupid.
I believe he picked ME before we ever crossed paths.
Dreams of Cupid.
Cupid is a 2022 Augusta Mountain BLM Mustang.
Cupid has been through a journey battling neurological symptoms, which were confirmed by Dr Janicek at Salado Equine in August of 2025 via x-ray. C2 & C3 are affected.
Cupid was seen again last week to check his neck and progress. Cupid went from knocking on deaths door, to living a relatively healthy lifestyle and learning lots.
This morning while Annika and I were cleaning up from last night’s storm, Cupid laid down relatively close and was flat out. When he sat up his ears were still perky.
It was slightly alarming and unusual behavior. He was also laying on road base, rather than sand, dirt or grass.
We both took note. But ears were perky, eyes even, no pain face. So maybe just a fluke.
A few minutes later he walked into Jupiter’s stall and started kicking it with his front feet. Very very unusual.
I decided to halter him and bring him to the grass round pen to observe.
He immediately laid down.
This is when we went into action getting meds on board, calling the vet, calling my friend Jackie, calling my husband {in that order}, as we hooked up the trailer and hit the road.
The Vet Team was alerted on handling needs and approach. As well as medical background and my wishes.
Cupid was walked in by a vet tech, who was perfect for him.
Dr. Youngblood conducted her assessment, including temp, gut sounds, ultrasound, respirations, heart rate, & lab work. We agreed to pass on the tubing and re**al for Cupid’s comfort. His diagnosis was clear, and a hospitalization was necessary.
Cupid recieved a Catheter, which was sewn in place, for his IV. And placed in his stall.
Cupid was fantastic, and must have felt safe with everyone who handled him.
We are hoping and praying he clears his ileal impaction by tomorrow.
Based on his previous medical condition I am not considering extreme measures/surgery. The overnight stay and treatment is $2000.00. This boy has been quite the medical journey the past 15 month.
I will not be updated on his progress til after 10 am Thursday morning, tomorrow. These folks have a lot of horses in their hospital, and their hands full.
I am available if there is an emergency, however, the sad reality is that an emergency would likely end with him being Put To Sleep.
Before we left I brushed him. Shined him up. Cleaned his feet. And as always, since the beginning our stars aligning- prayed for him.
Cupid is smart. Sensitive. Beautiful. Athletic. Happy with his herd. And loved.
Cupid is apart of my non-profit, The Sanctuary, INC, along with Sophie and Nova.
If you feel inclined to help with his bills or the mission of my program, please consider a tax deductible donation.
My PayPal is giving me a hard time, but my Venmo works. I will email your receipt if you choose to donate. -Marie #2788
We are hoping for the best for this guy, it’s been on my heart to write a book about our journey together, which has been a miraculous story about healing. I do believe Cupid was asking me to help him today, which resulted in his quick hospitalization. Without this ASK he may have died at home or been too far along to save at the vet.
If you’ve made it this far, thanks for supporting me with your time 🖤
