Ex-soccer Star Raising Money for Abused Horse

A starved and abused horse rescued in early September is getting a new chance at life. Ex-soccer star Michelle Akers, who played for the U.S. in both the Olympics and the World Cup, is hosting a unique soccer experience fundraiser to raise money for Zoe the horse's veterinary care and other health needs.

"Oats for Zoe" offers the chance for people to meet Zoe, have breakfast with Akers and her husband, Steve Eichenblatt, at their home in Chuluota, Fla., and watch a broadcast of the U.S. women playing Nigeria in soccer.

The event takes place on Tuesday, September 18 at 7:30 a.m. and should last approximately two hours. There is only room for 50 people, and the suggested donation is $50 per person. Children are welcome to attend. Aker's and Eichenblatt's son, Cody, who is two years old, will attend the event, too.

Reservations can be made by e-mailing seichenblatt@floridalawonline.com, and donations payable to Oats For Zoe can be mailed to Page, Eichenblatt, Bernbaum & Bennett P.A., 214 E. Lucerne Circle, Orlando, FL 32801.

Zoe the horse, formerly named Sue, was rescued in early September after sheriff's deputies in Seminole County were called to a pasture in Sanford. The owner had allegedly tried to bury a horse alive. That horse could not be saved and was euthanized by a veterinarian on the scene. Zoe was found nearby and rescued.

It was reported that Zoe was not much better off than the horse that had to be euthanized. The Orlando Sentinel reported that Zoe was skin and bones, except for having a very full stomach. It is possible Zoe is pregnant, according to Lori Tankel, who played a big role in helping rescue Zoe (reported in the Orlando Sentinel).

Sources
Gary Taylor, Ex-soccer star welcomes rescued horse into new home, Orlando Sentinel, http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/volusia/orl-horses09_107sep09,0,7471364.story?coll=orl_tab01_layout

Gary Taylor, Ex-soccer star to hold fund-raiser for rescued horse, Orlando Sentinel, http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/volusia/orl-bk-horsey091407,0,7427604.story?coll=orl_tab01_layout