Hope & Healing for Diablo

Written on 05/11/2025
Nisha Thomas

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Healing Hands and a Hopeful Heart—Thank You for Helping Diablo

I cannot begin to express how thankful and appreciative I am for the incredible care and healing that Shelayne Fico has brought to my beloved horse, Diablo, a 20-year-old Friesian cross gelding. After suffering a tendon injury running in a wet pasture, Diablo was faced with a long and uncertain recovery, as we know horses can be horses. Thanks to Shelayne’s red light therapy and holistic approach, his swelling significantly reduced, and over the course of several months, his lameness has progressively improved. Even after re-injuring himself twice, she remained faithful in her support, helping him recover again, though there is some scar tissue, his progress is undeniable.

What stands out the most is how much Diablo genuinely enjoys his sessions with her. In the beginning, it was harder for him to stand still as his injury made it hard for him to bear weight, and couldn’t even stand for the farrier. He absolutely loves the scents of her essential oils (I think peppermint might be his favorite), and his stomach is definitely the way to his heart. He loves getting treats, and it’s clear she always keeps the animal’s well-being at the heart of everything she does. Shelayne is not only highly skilled but one of the sweetest, most compassionate people I’ve met. Diablo isn’t always the most patient horse; he can be a bit nosy and mischievous. I’m so grateful for her healing hands, her heart, and the hope she’s given us in seeing Diablo return to a place where he can be comfortable, happy, and as healthy as possible. Diablo has even learned what her car looks like and will come in from the pasture to the gate. This speaks the love and friendship that has developed overtime. 

Thank you, Shelayne, for everything you’ve done for Diablo. We are forever thankful for you.