By Naya Seth and Sondra Barr
Photos courtesy of The Godspeed Project
In Cave Creek, a unique sanctuary exists where grief meets grace, and healing comes on four hooves. The Godspeed Project, a nonprofit organization, has been making waves in the community for its innovative approach to helping people navigate the challenging waters of grief through the gentle presence of horses.
It all began with a young girl named Sadie, who at just 7 years old, faced the unimaginable loss of her older brother, Chase. The impact of his sudden departure in January 2021 left Sadie and her family navigating a sea of sorrow. Despite seeking traditional therapy, it was Sadie’s encounter with a horse that marked the turning point in her journey through grief.
Sadie’s mother, Megan MacIntosh, witnessed a transformation in her daughter after she began interacting with horses. It wasn’t long before Sadie was not only riding but also forming deep, healing connections with these animals. Megan saw an opportunity to extend this healing experience to others in the community suffering from similar losses. Thus, The Godspeed Project was born, with Sadie’s resilience and newfound hope serving as the impetus.
The organization offers a non-clinical, equine-assisted grief support program led by Megan herself, a certified Grief Educator, certified trauma-informed yoga instructor, certified Equine Assisted Learning facilitator, certified somatic healing practitioner, and fellow griever. Sessions are tailor-made, allowing children and families to interact with horses in a way that feels less like therapy and more like a journey towards healing. These horses, all rescued from unfortunate circumstances, now help individuals find peace and solace as they work through their grief.
Sadie, now 10, and a fifth grader at Pinnacle Peak Preparatory in Scottsdale, is an example of the profound impact of The Godspeed Project. No longer held back by the weight of her grief, Sadie’s story is one of courage and the transformative power of connection—with horses and with one’s own emotions.
The Godspeed Project has rapidly grown, reaching many through social media and word of mouth. It offers hope to those struggling with loss, offering free sessions for children and families grappling with the death of a parent, sibling, or caregiver. Others are invited to participate on a donation basis.
For anyone touched by loss, The Godspeed Project offers not just support, but a path forward, guided by the gentle hooves of horses and the unwavering spirit of a little girl named Sadie.
For more information, visit thegodspeedproject.org.
