Our Stories and Testimonials

~Ivy Hill has so many stories to share.~

“It’s Tuesday afternoon and I am in the parents’ lobby watching my son’s riding lesson. I have to check in with myself and make sure it’s actually Tuesday, because even on Monday morning sometimes he wakes up and asks, “Is it Ivy Hill tonight?””

My son is named Julian and he's a very sweet and caring boy according to everyone who meets him. He's six years old right now, but when he was four we found out he has Type 1 Diabetes and is on the autism spectrum. For our family, 2022 made 2020 look easy!

If you're like me and your child has disabilities as well as different abilities then you will understand firsthand what I am about to say. I watch Julian sitting atop his trusty steed Bradley who is short, furry, cute and ever so reliable and safe like all the wonderful horses and ponies of Ivy Hill. Julian's lessons are such a peaceful time for me. A chance to come up for air during a long chain of often overwhelming moments. I notice my breathing has slowed and my shoulders relaxing. For a half hour, Julian can hold the reins on his own life. With his teacher and volunteers close by his side his mind and body work together to balance in the saddle. Horses traditionally represent freedom, power, independence. All things moms and dads wish for their children. When your child has special needs those things seem so much further out of reach. Just like autism is on a spectrum, so too are the child's potential to develop into an independent adult. I love Ivy Hill, because as I stand here watching my son steering Bradley around the rainbow colored cones I feel a sense of peace and reassurance.

In a few moments, I'll watch as his teacher Erin helps him put his feet back on the ground. Then I'll smile because he'll give Bradley a big pat and thank him. It wasn't that long ago that Julian was too anxious to touch an animal, but now it's another activity of joy he has and I feel hope. Suddenly, he comes bursting into the lobby like a mustang with all the wild abandon of a young boy. We say our goodbyes to Erin now that I've got him wrangled and heading towards the exit. Worry quickly floods my brain as I gently grasp his shirt as well as the hope I felt just a moment ago. How quickly my shoulders tense as I wonder if Julian will be able to function as an independent adult? How is he going to manage his diabetes care? I worry about his sensitive nature in this crazy world we all call home. But, as we pull down the drive I am leaving with a gift. The wonderful memories we create each week. I smile again and remind myself of Julian's giggles as he trotted around the ring. And once again he is just a six year old boy. Horses only live in the moment and I can too! Thank you Ivy Hill. May you always stay blessed!

—Ivy Hill Parent

“I went from not walking well to walking well. It helped me when I was really sad. It also. helped with my confidence and self-esteem. I have a chance to volunteer and I have met wonderful people and amazing horses at Ivy Hill!”

— Ivy Hill Rider

“After trying many different activities we finally feel we have found the right fit for our son, Braeden. Ash is so incredibly kind, full of energy and demonstrates a wealth of coping strategies, along with the horses. Braeden’s confidence and riding abilities have grown since starting Ivy Hill riding lessons. Erin and the entire Ivy Hill staff are positive, friendly, and passionate about their riders and the families they serve. Thank You Ivy Hill! ”

— Parent of Ivy Hill Rider

“One year before the polio vaccine was available, my father, my brother and I all contracted polio. I was 5 years old. We were quarantined in a Philadelphia hospital for several weeks with rooms next to each other and glass separating us. My father used to tap on the glass to let us know he was there. We all survived but our lives were forever changed. My father could never run again, but, strangely, the virus symmetrically affected his legs so he could walk without limping. Unfortunately, my brother’s left side was greatly affected. His leg withered and he walked with a noticeable limp for the rest of his life. I was the lucky one. My neck and shoulders were affected but the virus did not reach my chest and lungs. If it had I would have been put in an “iron lung.” and probably would not have lived.

How did we overcome this life changing event? We received wonderful care, intensive therapy, confidence building, love from family and friends, and determination that we could improve our lives. This is exactly what the Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center provides its riders.
A sense that, “you can do it!” Ivy Hill’s equine centered therapy helps children, young adults, adults and seniors with a myriad of different physical, emotional, behavior and social disorders improve their lives. We are not these individuals only therapists but we help those who need help gain confidence, feel part of something, experience first hand a connection between human and horse, gain friendships and feel love in a place where they fit in.

I am forever grateful for those who helped my father, my brother and me regain some control of our lives. We hope you will support Ivy Hill as this wonderful place does the same for a new generation of individuals.”

— Allen Steere

“Ivy Hill has been a home to us for the past 6 or so years. The staff and instructors are amazing and personable. My daughter with Down Syndrome (with low muscle tone) has grown in strength and confidence through riding...when we walk in we are greeted with friendly smiles and hellos. We are known by our names and treated like family.”

— Ivy Hill parent