“I am 21 years old and have been riding at Ivy Hill since 2003 when I was 14 years old. When I first started riding I was a little bit afraid of the horses because they are so big. When I was learning how to groom them I was afraid to pick up their hoofs and when I brushed them I thought they might kick me. When I was riding on a horse I was always afraid I would fall off.

My instructors kept encouraging me to keep trying and wouldn’t let me quit. Sometimes they still push me to do things (especially Megan!) when I am afraid and think its something I can’t do. Last summer Megan wanted me to start cantering and I was really makes me because before I know it I can do something I never thought I could.

Therapeutic riding has helped me to get stronger too. I have some weakness on my left side and since starting riding you can’t even tell my left leg is weaker. I have learned how to control the horse with my left hand even though it is very weak. I really like being in the home shows, going to Thorncroft and especially getting to go to Penn State for Special Olympics in June. It’s really fun. One year I qualified for the Devon Horse Show and that was really exciting. I have lots of friends at the barn and I really like seeing everyone at my lessons. Most importantly, therapeutic horseback riding has taught me to believe in myself and to keep trying to achieve new goals. I used to be very quiet and shy and it has helped me to come out of my shell. I have grown into a beautiful, confident, young woman. (My mom made me say that!) Thank you Ivy Hill for helping me to become the best I can be. ”