Arthur M. is a happy nine-year-old who sits up straight riding his favorite horse, Shaw, with a big smile on his face.  It hasn’t always been this way.

Arthur came to The Shea Center at age four with a diagnosis of autism.  His mother, Claudia, explains that at the time, Arthur was barely talking, very unsteady, and had weak core muscles.

Over time, Arthur’s muscles have become much stronger, his speech has developed, and his coordination has improved to the point that he can run!  Claudia says that horseback riding has also increased Arthur’s body awareness and built his self-confidence and social skills.

Arthur’s riding (almost six years later) has evolved to the point that he no longer requires sidewalkers and is able to ride off lead.

Arthur loves animals and enjoys talking to his horse.  He’s proud of his riding accomplishments and would someday like to be a rancher.  In addition to riding horses, Arthur also enjoys skiing and swimming.