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Deanna Hearn shares her journey founding Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, a sanctuary where rescued horses help heal humans through innovative wellness programs and connection-based healing. Her grandfather's gift of a difficult first horse taught her resilience that now guides her philosophy of turning life's struggles into opportunities for growth.

• Received her first horse at age 12 from her grandfather, a Korean War veteran who believed horses "bring light" during dark times
• Transitioned from running a boarding facility to founding a horse rescue after realizing she wanted more meaningful work
• Created a full-circle mission of "people helping horses heal people" that drives all programs at Lucky Orphans
• Offers diverse wellness programs including equine-assisted mental health support, yoga, breath work, and educational initiatives
• Witnessed remarkable transformations, including a suicidal teen amputee finding purpose through connection with a horse with a broken knee
• Measures a horse's value by capacity for love rather than performance abilities
• Faces ongoing challenges funding the care of 44 rescued horses, especially during economic downturns
• Planning to rebrand by removing "Horse Rescue" from the name to better reflect their broader mission
• Believes happiness comes from "listening to your own true north" rather than following others' expectations
• Encourages others to take risks: "Even if you fail, you'll never wonder what if"

Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue website: https://www.luckyorphans.org/

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