In Redmond, Oregon, the community is coming together to support Rocky Balboa, an orphaned foal who has captured hearts both locally and globally. On May 13, 2026, Rocky was brought to the 3 Sisters Equine Refuge and then transferred to Bend Equine Medical Center for urgent care. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Greer and a local family offering their mare, Duchess, as a surrogate, Rocky is now thriving.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
The story of Rocky and Duchess has inspired the 3 Sisters Equine Refuge to launch the 2026 Orphan Foal Fund, which aims to provide ongoing care for Rocky and future orphaned foals. To support this initiative, Redmond-based businesses Black Hat Texas BBQ and Rim Rock Tap House are hosting a fundraising event on June 3. The event will feature a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction, and live music by Dail Croome, with 50% of Black Hat Texas BBQ sales going to the fund.
Items up for auction include gift cards, a family-size brisket meal, and a tattoo and swag basket. A signature cocktail, “The Little Fighter,” will also be available, celebrating Rocky’s resilience. Cyndi Davis, founder of 3 Sisters Equine Refuge, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, highlighting the importance of ensuring every foal has a chance at a healthy life.
How to Help
Individuals can support Rocky and the Orphan Foal Fund by attending the fundraiser, making direct donations at 3sistersequine.org, or sponsoring a night of care at Bend Equine Medical Center. Sharing Rocky’s story on social media also helps raise awareness and support for the cause.
The 3 Sisters Equine Refuge is committed to rescuing and rehabilitating at-risk horses, focusing on orphan foals and vulnerable equines. Their efforts include emergency response, care, and community education to ensure every horse has a chance at a safe, healthy life.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.