By Dr Anna Kennedy OBE – Guest Writer for 2Shades Magazine
There are some places that instantly remind you just how much kindness still exists in the world, and Kilmarnock Horse, Pony and Donkey Rescue in Sussex is certainly one of them.
Recently, I had the pleasure of catching up with the wonderful Carol Jackson, founder of this remarkable sanctuary, where I have proudly served as Patron since 2015. Every visit leaves me inspired, not only by the incredible work being done but by the dedication, resilience and compassion shown by Carol and her amazing team.
For more than 26 years, Carol has devoted her life to rescuing animals that have been abandoned, neglected, mistreated or simply forgotten. It is a commitment that never stops. Every single day brings new challenges, yet her determination to give vulnerable animals a second chance has never wavered.
Walking around the sanctuary is a truly humbling experience. Horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, sheep and alpacas all live peacefully together, each with their own story. Many have suffered unimaginable hardship before finding safety, while others arrive elderly, frightened or in poor health. Thanks to Carol and her volunteers, they are given exactly what every living creature deserves—care, dignity, kindness and, above all, love.
Not every animal can be rehomed. Many spend the rest of their lives at the sanctuary, where they receive the specialist care they need in a safe and nurturing environment. Watching these beautiful animals thrive after everything they have endured is incredibly moving and a reminder of the difference that compassion can make.
Like so many charities across the country, however, Kilmarnock Horse, Pony and Donkey Rescue is facing increasingly difficult times.
This year’s lack of rainfall has had a significant impact on grazing land, leaving very little natural grass for the animals. As a result, the sanctuary has had to purchase far more hay than usual, and with rising costs, the financial pressure continues to grow.
Alongside these challenges comes uncertainty surrounding the future of the land and its lease. For any charity, that uncertainty can be deeply worrying, especially when so many animals rely on the sanctuary every single day. It highlights just how vital fundraising and public support have become.
Despite everything, what always impresses me most is Carol’s unwavering spirit.
She doesn’t complain. She simply gets on with the job because the animals need her. That quiet determination is something I admire enormously. She understands that every horse, every donkey and every rescued animal depends on the sanctuary, and she never loses sight of why she began this journey over two decades ago.
Of course, Carol could never achieve all of this alone.
The sanctuary is supported by an incredible team of volunteers who generously give their time, energy and compassion. During my visit I met a lovely young woman who spends her holidays volunteering while studying to become a veterinary surgeon. Seeing young people choosing to dedicate their free time to helping vulnerable animals gives me great hope for the future. Acts of kindness like these remind us that compassion is alive and well, and that the next generation is ready to make a difference.
As many of you know through my work with Anna Kennedy Online, I have always believed that communities become stronger when people come together to support one another. Whether we are helping autistic individuals and their families, supporting vulnerable people, or caring for rescued animals, the message is exactly the same—every life matters and everyone deserves kindness, respect and the opportunity to flourish.
That is why I am so proud to be Patron of this wonderful charity.
If you are able to help, no matter how small the contribution, it really can make a world of difference. Carol is currently asking supporters to visit the Kilmarnock Horse Rescue Facebook page, as the charity’s website is being updated. There are many ways to become involved. You might choose to make a donation, volunteer your time, help with fundraising, or even adopt one of the sanctuary’s elderly residents from as little as £5 a month.
Every pound raised helps provide food, shelter, veterinary care and a secure future for these beautiful animals. Your support allows Carol and her dedicated volunteers to continue giving hope where it is needed most.
I would like to thank Carol personally for everything she has done over the past 26 years. Her kindness, resilience and unwavering commitment are truly inspiring. Every time I visit the sanctuary, I leave feeling uplifted, and I always enjoy our conversations as much as meeting the wonderful animals in her care.
It remains an honour to serve as Patron of Kilmarnock Horse, Pony and Donkey Rescue, and I hope that by sharing their story, more people will discover this very special sanctuary and help secure its future for generations to come.
Together, we really can make a difference.
2Shades Magazine 