Horse Illustrated Magazine

In honor of the extraordinary efforts of globe-trotting surgeons, Louisiana State University veterinarians and technicians, a determined team of horse owners, and a remarkable 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine dedicated “The Lexi Suite” in the Equine Intensive Care Unit at the school’s large animal hospital on May 17.

The Lexi Suite, a special equine care unit, was named in honor of Lexius (Lexi), owned by Ms. Julie Calzone and Mr. Robert Gardes. Lexi is the Dutch mare who presented LSU with the opportunity to cure uveitis in North America through a procedure known as a vitrectomy. The surgery is rarely performed and was unprecedented at LSU. Uveitis is a painful eye disease that can lead to blindness.

The dedication was attended by horse enthusiasts from around the state, and members of the faculty and staff of LSU’s Equine Health Studies Program.

“The event is a celebration of Lexi’s journey and the remarkable efforts of all that were involved in her recovery, and a formal recognition of the incredible philanthropic support that has been demonstrated by her owners, both in their willingness to implement ‘The Lexi Fund,’ and in additional private support, as well,” said Dr. Eric Storey, Lexi’s first ophthalmologist at LSU.

“The Lexi Fund” was implemented earlier this year to dedicate financial resources toward clinical service, scientific investigation and educational endeavors in the field of equine ophthalmology.

“Both Bob and I feel very strongly that Lexi called all the shots, including picking Dr. Storey and LSU,” Julie Calzone said. “We knew we simply had to stand by her while she led the way for a new life and new eye sight, not only for herself but for other horses in North America. She is a very special horse, and we all are fortunate that she chose us. If it weren’t for Dr. Storey and LSU, none of this would have been possible.”

Read about additional uveitis research.