Second Chances:
A Story of Love, Faith and Rescue
Fredrick G. Marengo
It was March 28, 1998; Fred and Susan had just celebrated their wedding in the Village of Lexington after Fred had served twenty-nine years on the St. Clair Shores Police Department, retiring as Deputy Chief of Police. Fred longed to return to his home town far away from the hussle and bustle of the city. Susan was eager to be a country girl and the kids were eager to explore the beaches and woods.
A new home was just completed which was nestled in the woods surrounded by wildlife. Susan immediately was absorbed into the small town culture; the kids liked their new school and classmates, spending time with “herds” instead of gangs.
Fred continued teaching law enforcement tactics around the state for a period of time until the nickering of horses replaced the sharp report of gunfire.
Although clueless about about the care and raising of horses, the family rescued two that were headed to auction. One horse was injured and the other was old. Fred found a place to temporarily board them, not realizing that this would only be the beginning of horse rescues. His love and determination would drive him to gain the knowledge and ability to provide for their care.
His horses were rescued amid the pangs of hunger, mistrust, and fear as Fred armed only with his love and determination earned their trust and love. The “non-horse trainer” was filled with pride and joy with his accomplishments, amazing his friends and garnering their respect.
“Happiness in Paradise” came to a screeching halt when Fred’s kidneys failed, which was only the beginning of the medical crisis the family would face. He fought his way through three years of kidney dialysis, a quadruple heart bypass, a sub-dural hematoma (blood clot on the brain), and finally a kidney transplant which saved the lives of his two of his donors as well as his own. Month after month, year after year, the fight was on and no one was ready to give up.
You will laugh at the antics, shed a tear at the pain, and be amazed to see how the horses were instrumental in helping beat the odds against Fred’s survival. You will have a front row seat to witness triumph and tragedy.
This first time author has written a book that gives you a glimpse into his soul. You will not want the book to end.
About the Author
Fred Marengo was born and raised in Lexington, Michigan. It is still the quaint village nestled along the shores of Lake Huron that represents the best of “Small Town America”.
Fred was Student Body President during his Senior Year at Croswell-Lexington High School, as well as editor-in-chief of the school newspaper. He had received an award for “feature writing” while attending Michigan State University.
Fred enlisted in the United States Marine Corps for a six year obligation returning home to join the St. Clair Shores Police Department where he served for twenty nine years, retiring as Deputy Chief of Police.
Governor John Engler of the State of Michigan personnally read and presented Fred with a State of Michigan Resolution, honoring him for his numerous accomplishments upon his retirement during the 1998 Annual Crime Stoppers Dinner.
Fred retired after twenty nine years of service returning to his roots with his wife Susan and children Shannon and Adam. Fred fell in love with horses. This is the story of the love of horses and a personal struggle to survive.
Visit the author's website at http://www.fredmarengo.com
Specifications
Format: 5.5" x 8.5" perfect bound paperback on acid-free creme paper; gloss laminate cover
Pages: 230
Illustrations: Photographs of the horses and people that live and help assist at Happy Horse Ranch
Published: May, 2011
ISBN 13: 978-0-9830827-0-5
LCCN: 2011930456
Price: $18.95
Reviews
“Fred Marengo’s book is earthy, smart, and engaging. As you read about rescuing these big, lovable, hairy characters it warms your heart and gets you to wondering who’s doing the rescuing.”
‑‑ Fr. Rick Schark, Trinity Episcopal Church, Lexington, Michigan
“Not since BLACK BEAUTY have I enjoyed a book about horses so much. Fred Marengo’s tale of rescue, caring and love for these magnificent animals…and his own story of survival…is compelling, enjoyable and true. The story of the Happy Horse Ranch and its residents will warm your heart. I didn’t want to put it down. You won’t either. Enjoy!”
- Richard Liblong, Author of Answering the Call to Duty and Michigan State University Communications Alumnus of the Year for 2008
"My daughter surprised me with your book for Mothers Day after I had mentioned it to her... It touched my heart and I wanted to share it with her. We are both "horse lovers" and all other animals as well. I am normally not a book reader. I love short stories and such, but I have to tell you it didn't take me long to finish your book. Thank you so much for sharing your life story and for all you have done to help save life. I enjoyed every page. It was a wonderful story and I'm sure it still goes on!
- A happy reader
Interviews
July 21, 2011 interview that author Fred Marengo had with Paul Miller of station 1380 AM WPHM in Port Huron, Michigan
This product was added to our catalog on Wednesday 01 June, 2011.
