Chincoteague Mayor injured in Spring Pony Roundup

By Linda Cicoira

Chincoteague Mayor Denise P. Bowden received hundreds of prayers, love, hugs, and other well-wishes after the town volunteer fire company’s Facebook page announced that she, their president, was “severely injured letting the southern herd out of the coral” Friday during the Spring Roundup of the famous ponies.

“Her leg was badly injured and required her to be taken to Baltimore to Shock Trauma (unit) where she underwent surgery,” the announcement stated. “Thankfully, it seems that part went well, but (she will) still (have) a very, very, long recovery. We hope you will join us in wishing her a safe and speedy recovery!”

In no time, the prayers started coming in from across the country and as far away as Australia.

Yvonne Jagger, a New Yorker who loves to vacation on Chincoteague, wrote, “Praying for you Denise. I am so sorry you were so badly injured doing what you love so much. You know there are so many people on the island and scattered all over the Eastern Seaboard and beyond who are praying for your speedy recovery. 

“If you know equine, you know that anything can happen in an instant, whether a horse is green, experienced, trained, untrained, domestic or feral, it doesn’t matter,” Nora Hoffman, of Pennsylvania, wrote on Bowden’s Facebook page. “You can prepare and plan, but life still happens. The pony community, far and wide, is rallying behind Denise and her long road to recovery. Please continue to pray for this wonderful lady who does so much for Chincoteague!”

     Gayle Drewer Shaw, of Craddockville, wrote, “I have been praying for you, Denise, ever since I heard this bad news. I am sorry this happened. Prayers for complete healing and for the pain you are enduring … Lots of love coming your way!”

Tim Brooks, of Ohio, wrote, “Without question, prayers for her and all of the fire company. May she recover rapidly. Please keep us updated. God bless.”

Of course, islanders are rooting for Bowden. Leighann King, of Chincoteague, wrote, “Sending lots of hugs, encouragement, and prayers. We think the world of you Denise.”

    Native Beverly Jester wrote, “Sending prayers and lots of good juju your way. Hope you have a smooth recovery process and comfort throughout. Sorry to hear about this. Lotta love around ya, gal!”

“I want to sincerely thank the incredible Cowboys and Cowgirls who rushed to my side and took care of me until the ambulance arrived, the amazing paramedics who cared for me en route to the hospital, the medical team at TidalHealth, and the outstanding staff at Baltimore Shock Trauma. I’m also deeply grateful to my wonderful family and friends for the overwhelming love and prayers, including Facebook friends I’ve never met and those who’ve been at my bedside,” said Bowden. “My distal femur was sheared off, but the surgery went well — I now have plates, pins, and the works. Physical therapy has already begun, and I’m hopeful to return to our beloved island soon. My Mama Duck arrives tomorrow, and I’m surrounded by dear people as I begin a long road to recovery. With all the love and prayers, I know I’ll get there. I may not be able to update often, but please know that I feel your support, and I will never be able to thank you enough for the kindness shown to me and my family.”

Despite the turmoil and cool temperatures, two foals were born and the ponies were vaccinated, dewormed, and returned to the wild. Onward to the 100th Annual Pony Swim in July.