Upcoming community fundraiser in Redmond for orphaned foal Rocky Balboa

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- On May 13, 2026, 3 Sisters Equine Refuge in Redmond, Ore., received an orphaned foal named Rocky Balboa, who was immediately transported to Bend Equine Medical Center for critical care. Following initial life-saving efforts by Dr. Greer, a family offered their mare, Duchess, as a surrogate, providing Rocky with a new mother and hope for survival.

The foal, named Balboa after accidentally giving a volunteer a fat lip due to his weak flailing, arrived at the hospital in a far more serious condition than initially realized. Dr. Greer, the veterinarian on the case, initiated immediate life-saving measures, including fluids, a feeding tube and multiple diagnostic tests to address his severe condition. As his story spread online, Rocky garnered global support from followers.

Cyndi Davis, Founder of three Sisters Equine Refuge, noted the foal's struggle from the beginning. "Rocky has been fighting from the moment we met him," Davis said. "He had gone without proper nutrition and care for far too long. He's fighting for his life — and for every orphan foal who will need us next."

The offer of a surrogate mother came from a family whose own mare had lost her foal, presenting a "miracle" for Rocky. Dr. Greer successfully grafted Rocky to Duchess on a Sunday and the mare accepted him, pulling him close to nurse, which brought tears to onlookers. This act is helping both Rocky and the family, who are dealing with the loss of their own foal.

Rocky and Duchess are currently thriving and remain hospitalized for observation. Their story prompted three Sisters Equine Refuge to launch the 2026 Orphan Foal Fund, created to support Rocky's ongoing life-saving care and assist future orphaned foals.

In a display of local solidarity, Redmond-based Black Hat Texas BBQ and Rim Rock Tap House are hosting a community fundraising night on June 3. This event aims to rally the Central Oregon community around Rocky and the broader mission of saving orphan foals. Event highlights include 50% of all Black Hat Texas BBQ sales donated, a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Orphan Foal Fund and a silent auction.

The auction will feature items such as Rimrock Taphouse gift cards, a family-size brisket meal from Black Hat Texas BBQ and a tattoo and swag basket from Steadfast Tattoo. Live music by Dail Croome and a signature cocktail named "The Little Fighter" will also be part of the event.

Davis highlighted the community's consistent support for equines in need. "This community has always shown up for horses in need," Davis said. "Rocky's fight is inspiring people across the world — and we hope his story will help us build a sustainable fund for 2026 and beyond so we never have to say no to an orphan foal."

To support Rocky and the 2026 Orphan Foal Fund, individuals can attend the June 3 fundraiser at Rimrock Taphouse and purchase dinner from Blackhat Texas BBQ. Donations can also be made directly to the Orphan Foal Fund at 3sistersequine.org, or supporters can share Rocky's story on social media or sponsor a night of care at Bend Equine for Rocky or future foals. Every contribution helps ensure that foals receive the chance they deserve.

Three Sisters Equine Refuge is a Central Oregon nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming at-risk horses. The organization focuses on orphan foals and vulnerable equines, providing emergency response, care, rehabilitation and community education to ensure every horse has a chance at a safe, healthy life. More information is available at 3sistersequine.org.

Individuals can continue to donate directly to the Orphan Foal Fund or sponsor nights of care for Rocky and other foals needing assistance.