Kayden’s journey of healing: how Nexus Equine and a special horse changed her life

When Rita Hoch opened Nexus Equine in 2016, she never imagined it would have the impact that it had on Kayden Harrison.

“She had hip surgery at age two, she had back surgery in (20)21,” said Carrisa Harris, Kayden’s mother.

To say that 12-year-old Kayden has had a rough start to life would be an understatement.

“She has systemic JIA, which affects her organs and her joints. Rashes, fevers, comes with arthritis,” said Harrison.

She’s been in hospitals all over the country, dealing with challenges no child could possibly understand.

“So she has severely hypoplastic RCA, right coronary artery, with perfusion deficits,” said Harrison.

Through all the challenges, Kayden found her relief in horses

“Some days are harder than others to get out of bed, but horses are always her motivation,” said Harrison.

She is in her happy place with horses. She shows horses competitively and even volunteers at Nexus Equine.

“We are an organization that addresses animal welfare issues,” said Hoch, founder and president of Nexus Animals.

They quickly noticed Kayden’s love for horses, especially Denver, a horse born with challenges of his own.

“He was born with some congenital abnormalities of his legs, and we were able to give him surgery,” said Hoch.

The two were seemingly inseparable

“She’s like whoever gets him is going to be so lucky, little did she know,” said Harrison.

Little did Kayden know that behind the scenes Nexus was planning the surprise of her life.

“Kayden, I am so happy to tell you that your wish has come true, and Denver is your very own horse,” said Amanda Stump, development manager with Nexus Animals.

Denver is now her horse free of charge. The family will make the hour-long trek multiple times a week, allowing Kayden to spend as much time as she wants with Denver. 

“I just couldn’t stop crying, I was so excited for her because she needs this,” said Harrison.

Plenty of tears and smiles as Kayden and Denver heal each other.

“From the start when I saw him, I knew he was the perfect horse for me,” said Kayden.

For information about Nexus and to support animals like Denver, visit their website www.nexusanimals.org