Testimonials

Alyssa with her friend, Pic.

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,