Testimonials
Alyssa
On March 15, 2019, Alyssa was just 11 years old when she first sat on a horse at TEC. Leading up to this were lonely days and a shrinking world with the walls closing in. Enter the power of horses, enter the world of TEC. Healing would begin through the powerful legs of a faithful friend carrying her through a green field. This was a friend before whom it didn’t matter how you looked, it didn’t matter your ability, it only matters that you loved. Sorrows are halved and joys are doubled as you navigate the arena on your faithful friend.
Your friend teaches you that every movement matters. Your friend teaches you that you how you feel inside really matters, for they can feel it too. Your faithful and strong friend teaches you that it is OK to have a bad day, for they will be here for you no matter what. Eventually, you’ll sit a little taller, lift your eyes a little higher, and begin to shine with a hope that despite your apparent disabilities even they will find themselves receding into the backdrop of the arena, absorbed by the sights and sounds and smells of the horses.
The tangible benefits of therapeutic riding cannot all be pointed to or named, but many can. Acceptance, solidarity, power, companionship, challenge, growth, and physical conditioning are just a few to name. Alyssa sits taller walks with greater confidence, and has found a place with the horses where she too can excel. Beyond the horses she has an instructor and volunteers that for her have formed a new community. This is her playground now. She doesn’t have to fret over whether she’ll be picked last or forgotten all together, for she is always first here, always included, always wanted and valued.
The power of horses there’s no other way to explain it.
– Alyssa parents, Lee and Sylvia
From Alyssa,
Emma
“We were very lucky. The first time we did it, we were able to secure a grant to just try it out… she loved it so much and we saw so many wonderful benefits for her that we’re like, oh whatever we need to do, we’re gonna keep going…It’s also just been wonderful, she’s a little shy, but when she’s on that horse she’s not shy at all. She sits up straighter, she looks older in a moment. She grows on that horse. It’s been a lot of help too… Going through this has also been physical therapy for her. She started balancing better, getting more strength in her hands and legs, it helped her catch up on the development she missed out on at first.
Lisette M. – Mother of Emma, Rider
Jeffrey
“Jeffrey has Angelman’s Syndrome and we’re part of a research of natural history project at Children’s and one of the recommendations was THIS! Some people with Angelman’s lose their ability to walk, so we were so excited to know that he does this already. Small little thing that comes with this, he never wore hats as a little kid. You have to wear your helmet. And that’s his sign for horseback riding.”
Ann D. – Mother of Jeffrey, Rider
Michael
“We moved to Massachusetts and my son has autism, and the first resource we found was Therapeutic Equestrian Center. They received us with open hands and we were able to get him in classes, which was the first activity that he did. The teachers, the volunteers, the center is so welcoming. As a child with disabilities, he’s been able to enjoy this therapy that is fundamental for children with disabilities…. We need these centers for these children… The therapy helps them balance their body, know where they are. They love animals and this, neurologically and physically, is very good for them.”
Sandra W. – Mother of Michael, Rider