FROM OUR RIDERS AND THEIR FAMILIES...

“Jenna has gained so much physical strength and confidence, as well as developing her social skills, during the last 18 months at Healing Reins.   Your generosity truly makes it possible for families to help their children and loved ones.”

Jef, Susie & Jenna C

“I am so happy I get to ride horses at Healing Reins.  I get around in a wheelchair, so riding horses allows me much more freedom.  I look forward to each Thursday so I can climb up on the horse and feel the accomplishment of horseback riding.  I feel free and much more independent when I ride.”

Josh S.

“My Mom calls me her “beautiful butterfly,” because the doctors told her when I was born that I would be locked in a cocoon—unable to smile, talk or do anything.  But at 6 months old I began to laugh and slowly emerge from the cocoon.  Now, as an adult, I have been riding Levi at Healing Reins for about a year, even though I was scared at the thought of it at first.  But if it weren’t for Healing Reins and its very special people who helped me overcome my fears, this butterfly could not have spread her wings to fly!  So my thanks to all of you!  And to my wonderful horse, Levi, “I love you!”

Ambie C.

“Alan and I had a great time visiting Pansy and seeing her in action!  We both got a little soggy eyed (my hubby is a worse cry baby than me!) when we watched Tiffany switch from Foxy to Pansy and finally find the courage to get on board and ride her around the arena.  That was the most touching and moving thing we’ve seen in a long, long time.  It’s very profound and uplifting to think that that little exercise might have a positive, confidence-building impact on that young girl’s life.  We were so impressed with your trainer…what incredible kindness, patience and compassion she has!

We are so happy that Pansy is enjoying an active, full life and is making a positive difference in people’s lives.  We both love her and miss her but the good that she is doing with Healing Reins far outweighs our selfish thoughts.

Thanks for letting us visit and for giving Pansy such a valuable job.

Have a great weekend!”

Tamara

The Healing Reins program has benefited my body and my brain in a way no other rehab program has. My relationship with my horse has given me confidence in my walking and the courage to try other activities. My horse and I respond to each other’s feelings in our serious work, as well as our laughter. That has benefited my spirit.

Each person at Healing Reins, who has worked with me, has understood my situation and has known how to help me in unique ways in my recovery. From the time I was a child, I loved horses, but after my stroke, I thought I would never be able to ride again. I am very grateful to be able to be in the program.

Ann G.

“I want to do it myself.”  If you are around when Neisa Gilbert-Gray rides, you will often hear from her that favorite phrase.  Her other favorite phrase:  “I would like to ride all of the horses.”  So far, she has worked her way through three; Deigo, Joker, and Levi.  Having ridden at Healing Reins since September of 2005, Neisa does not let any of her physical or cognitive challenges get in the way of her all-time favorite equine activity.  Within two sessions Neisa was trotting in 2-point and began posting.  It is Incredible to think that when she began, her body would only allow for sitting in the saddle and minimally steering her horse in the correct direction.  Now, Neisa is capable of carrying out up to four tasks after being challenged with even one when she first joined our riding family.  A bonus for our instructors:  new volunteers will be trained thoroughly as Neisa takes them through the procedures, making sure that they are paying attention to each detail. 

As a 5th grader at High Lakes Elementary, she also sings in her school choir.  Tuesday is her favorite day since she has both choir and riding.  Mary Lou Patterson, her foster mother says that Neisa can hardly contain herself Tuesday mornings as her ultimate activities of the week approach.

During this last summer Neisa underwent some major surgery.  This has set her back a bit with her riding, although her determination and positive outlook was not lost to her surgery.  Since birth, Neisa has had challenges that have threatened her survival and just being a kid, so she is more than willing to work at regaining her strength and balance.  Her flashing smile is always at hand, especially when she asks her horse to trot. Neisa, you go girl!