Denise Lee, a lifelong horse enthusiast from Ashington, West Sussex, was able to fulfill her final wish of being reunited with ponies, thanks to a community appeal organized by her daughter. Lee, who had volunteered with the Riding for the Disabled Association, was receiving end-of-life care at St Barnabas House hospice when she expressed her desire to touch a horse again and experience their distinct scent.
Her daughter, Joanne, reached out through local Facebook groups, and the plea was seen by Kerry Saunders, who offered to bring two Shetland ponies to the hospice. Hospice staff facilitated the visit by moving Lee's bed to a courtyard, allowing her to interact with the animals. The emotional reunion, which took place on Friday, August 14, was witnessed by Lee's family, including her granddaughters.
"The horses walked round the corner and there wasn't a dry eye in the place," Joanne recounted, describing the moment as "the most special memory." She added that the visit provided a "spark of joy" during an emotionally challenging time, as her mother passed away the following Sunday.
Saunders described Lee's reaction as her face "just lit up" as she was able to stroke the ponies and feel their breath. "They put their heads on her bed," Saunders added. The ponies also visited another patient at the hospice. This significant event occurred on what Joanne described as the last day her mother was fully conscious, marking a poignant and cherished final experience.