By Amy Howe
Eighteen-year-old Stasha Hackler of Liberal, Missouri, has faced a journey filled with challenges since her health took a dramatic turn at just nine years old.
Diagnosed with Essential Thrombocythemia (ET), a rare blood disorder, and Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH), Stasha’s life has been far from ordinary. Despite these obstacles, she has found strength and joy in an unexpected passion—working with and showing Gypsy Vanner horses. Her mother, Shauna Hackler, recalls how their lives changed overnight.
“Stasha had a pretty healthy childhood until one night when she became very sick. We thought it was appendicitis, but after a series of tests, doctors diagnosed her with pancreatitis, a condition they’d never seen in a child her age.
From there, our journey began—Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, Denver, New York City, St. Louis and Springfield became our new reality.
” A Rare and Complex Battle Living with Essential Thrombocythemia, a condition typically seen in people over 60, has been a daunting challenge for Stasha and her family.
“It’s so rare that even Children’s Mercy hadn’t seen it before. That’s why she was sent to Denver,” Shauna explains. Stasha’s condition requires constant monitoring, with eye exams every eight weeks to ensure no pressure on her brain from IIH. A VP shunt, placed during emergency brain surgery, has helped manage the condition but not without complications, including two revisions.
“It’s heartbreaking as parents to see her deal with pain and uncertainty,” Shauna shares. “But Stasha amazes us with her resilience and positivity.”
Finding Joy in Gypsy Vanner Horses
In 2021, during a visit to the Missouri State Fair, Stasha discovered Gypsy Vanner horses. Known for their striking beauty and gentle temperament, these horses captured her heart.
“We knew someone with a yearling, and after the fair, we started attending shows. Stasha showed that yearling for them and formed an amazing connection. We eventually bought the horse, and that’s how it all began,” Shauna says. Working with the horses has given Stasha a sense of purpose.
“I’ve learned so much from YouTube videos and other resources to train my horses,” Stasha says. Her bond with the animals is evident in her dedication and understanding of their personalities. “One of my horses loves trail classes, while another doesn’t care for them. I’ve even trained one to lay down. And they all love popcorn!”
Strength and Smiles and the Future
Despite her health struggles, Stasha’s positivity shines through at every show. “No matter her placement, she always comes out smiling and tells her horse, ‘Good job,’” Shauna says. Her attitude and willingness to help others have made her a beloved figure in the show community.
“Stasha has made so many friends at the shows. She’s not a stranger to anyone, and her spirit inspires others,” Shauna shares. Stasha dreams of building a life centered around her passion for Gypsy Vanner horses. “I want to train horses, show them for other people and one day have my own small Gypsy farm,” she says.
A Life Rewritten
From battling rare health conditions to shining in the ring with her beloved horses, Stasha Hackler’s journey is one of resilience, courage and determination. Her story reminds us that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, joy can be found in the most unexpected places.
As Shauna says, “Watching her with the horses, seeing her smile and knowing she’s found her purpose makes all the struggles worth it.”
For those inspired by her story and wanting more information on how to support Stasha, you can reach out at [email protected]