Introduction
Last night, after a fulfilling workout, I set out for a refreshing swim following an exhausting day caring for my 13 rescue animals. However, my plans took an unexpected turn when I found myself stranded in a rough area of Poughkeepsie; it was a place plagued by the shadows of addiction and despair. As I sat helplessly, faced with lurking threats from the streets, I called the police for assistance. Fortunately, a friendly local towing company quickly arrived, rescuing me and my four therapy dogs, bringing us to safety at their shop.
Countywide Towing
(845) 485-1715
Despite the turmoil, the towing team’s kindness turned a dire situation around—they not only towed my news van but also drove us home at 1 AM, and even stopped to get my dog’s bones !!! Their warmth and kindness shined upon the darkness we had faced. In fact, we’re now on our way to becoming friends.
This morning, as I reflected on that experience, I was reminded of the ranch I am building upstate, dedicated to helping people navigate their mental health challenges—grief and anxiety, in particular—through the healing power of my rescue horses. The community surrounding that ranch brims with compassionate, like-minded individuals who genuinely care for both humanity and animals. Together, we rescue and nurture all beings in need.
Additionally, I’ve developed a heart warming family at the Neurodivergent news team, comprised of talented young adults with disabilities and their peer allies who have often felt sidelined by society and the workforce. Over the past five years, we’ve fostered an environment where these incredible individuals can collaborate, share, and uplift one another. They’ve created a vibrant family, one they didn’t realize they were missing—especially during weekends, holidays, and meaningful events.
Throughout my life, I’ve committed myself to building communities—starting from my years working in pediatric oncology at Columbia University, where I connected with families grappling with cancer. Those relationships still hold deep significance for me. I am now dedicated to going all the way to my work with my incredible news team at Autisticana, and now, my new venture at CATS Ranch ( Connect.Aspire.Transform.Succeed)established in memory of my beloved sister Catherine, who passed away last year, leaving behind four boys under the age of ten. I never thought I could walk through this pain, but this foundation I have developed in her name has supported me through this heart wrenching grief and always will .
“ Living in and on purpose” has been my way of life since I was a child.
The community I’ve nurtured in my 50s has been profoundly fulfilling; it offers solace and connection for those who may feel isolated.
For anyone who feels alone or disconnected, I urge you to take that first step. Look around you and appreciate the beauty within our world. In times when people often shy away from each other, cherish the kindness of those who do reach out. Make the effort to build communities, as I did at Woodstock stables, the home of CATS , and my Newsmakers.
It’s through these connections that you will find extraordinary people with intentions that resonate with your own.
This holiday season, if you find yourself feeling isolated, I invite you to take steps towards building your community, or reach out to me at CATS Ranch program at Woodstock stables in Dover Plains, New York.
Come spend some time with our beautiful horses and beloved rescue animals—you are not alone on this journey.
As I always say, “We are stronger as a team than we are alone.”
“I want to thank all the people that I have met along the path of resilience that have supported me in the past two years of trauma and grief. For living in and on purpose is the only way to be ….
Blessings and Gratitude for a beautiful holiday season.
Dr. Christine Grimaldi
Www.fuelholisticenrichmentcenter.org
Www.catsranch.org
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