On September 6, 2022, my husband and I welcomed a beautiful daughter into the world. We named her Anna Roan Brown. She lived just shy of two hours. There are really no words to express the pain of losing a child.
The nurse put this beautiful baby on my chest, and in less than two hours, her heart stopped beating. How do you cope with something like that?
My pastor at the time, who was with me through it all, told me, “You need to spend time with your horses. Do the things you love.” It was the most loving and practical advice, and I’m so grateful for it. I didn’t lack faith in getting through the trial; I needed an outlet. Or, more, a space that brought me joy.
I not only did what he said; I ended up opening a non-profit to open that door for other people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to be around horses.
Horses have always been a source of peace for me, and I know that is true for so many people. But not everyone has been blessed in the way I have been to have that opportunity.
Fast forward a few years, and Anna Roan Ministries is in its 3rd year, and I feel so privileged. Horses for Hope is our one big fundraiser a year to raise money for our mission, which is paying for riding lessons and equine experiences for those who can’t afford them, while inspiring hope and faith in Jesus.
I want God to get the glory here, not the horses. He’s the one who blesses us with these beautiful creatures. Because he is the giver of gifts. From the very breath we breathe to each and every day of our lives, no matter how good or bad. Yes, every second I held my daughter was a gift.
I can’t see it any other way because look at the good that’s come from that tiny life that I held for 112 minutes.
I see and experience it over and over at Horses for Hope. So many come together to support our cause, to give back, to be part of something bigger than themselves. It’s all so much. It’s humbling and honoring to be a part of it. Even surreal.
If you came and were a part of our event in any way, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You don’t know—heck, I don’t even fully know—the impact we make in people’s lives.
I tell myself that it’s not my job to know. I obey, I plant seeds, I love, and trust the rest with God.
But the part I do get to see? Wow, what joy!
The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. – Psalm 118:24
Written by: Rachel Brown, founder of Anna Roan Ministries
It was such a lovely event and I feel truly blessed to have been a part of it!
oh , rachel i cant think god and u for the blessings and the opportunities . My dream since i was alittle girl finally came true and the life it gave my daughter . There been sooo much i dont even know where to start or say , but thank you . We have got to be blessed since the very first one and love to help and be a part of the growing blessing . I have thousands of pictures and to look back on the pictures of kynley for sooo little to know six still going 💕🌟