CHINCOTEAGUE, Va.- Chincoteague ponies are more than animals on this island, they're like family and loved by many. But many of these ponies have been battling a fungus-like disease called swamp cancer, which leaves lesions on the body and may result in death.

So far, seven ponies have been infected with swamp cancer, and one named Essie has died. During a surgery to assess the swamp cancer, officials said her infection was far too gone.

"It's been tough," said Denise Bowden, a spokesperson for the Chincoteague Fire Company, which cares for the ponies. "They belong to our heart and we're going to do everything we can to make sure they're healthy."

Officials say they're not sure where the cancer came from, but think it may have come from the marshlands where the ponies often graze. The Chincoteague Fire Company plans on bringing in biologists to test the plants and grass in the area to see of this is the case.

So far, three ponies have had surgery, and additional surgeries for the other infected horses have been scheduled.

People in the area say they're sad to see the horses go through such a tough time, as they're a vital part of their community.

"I was very surprised to hear about it. I actually hadn't been aware of this disease. I of course googled it. The Chincoteague Fire Department, I believe, has a good hand on it," Irene Smith said.

Others like Janet Hoey said, "I was happy the vets caught it in time, you know, and helped the rest of the herd, that's a great thing to do."

But even in the midst of turmoil, good can still come from a bad situation.

"Losing Essie yesterday was pretty tough but a new foal was spotted and it's what we call a "medicine hat," which means he's got a brown toboggan looking mark on his head and two beautiful blue eyes."

People on the island are rejoicing for the new pony, and hope all others recover quickly.