It was too serious, back-to-back car accidents that caused Neda DeMayo to ask herself “What if I won the lotto… What if I had all the money I ever needed – what would I do with my life?” Posing that question resulted in Neda’s decision to leave her career as a costume designer and wardrobe stylist and create Return to Freedom, a non-profit that provides safe haven for relocated wild horses and burros. Protecting horses was a long-deferred dream from Neda’s childhood. Once she decided to pursue her goal, Neda conducted three years of research and planning, as well as “plenty of second-guessing”. Once the sanctuary was operational, Neda encountered various challenges and even prayed that the desire be taken away from her. “But my passion drove me forward.”
Now, 13 years later, she encourages others to “just get started” with their unfulfilled goals. “I think when it’s a dream that won’t go away, you owe it to yourself to pursue it and be committed.” She says: “As challenging as it is – and it’s the biggest challenge I’ve ever had – it’s the most rewarding experience of my life.”
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