Leo, age 5, was diagnosed with autism at three. He has been through all the clinical therapies, but his favorite is occupational therapy utilizing hippotherapy at The Shea Center. Leo is motivated to play and engage in activities on the horse that help him build his...
Luca was born with a bright light inside of him and a contagious excitement for life. He was very expressive and used gestures to communicate what he wanted or needed during the first two years of his life. When he was two and not saying any words, the pediatrician...
Why we love him: Paul volunteers all day on Thursdays, working down at the barn in the mornings, keeping the crossties swept, tack put away, and helping out wherever needed. In the afternoons, he leads and sidewalks in lessons. Paul is always upbeat and calm. During...
Seven-year-old second-grade twins Ellie and Liz have been Shea Center clients for a year. With the onset of the pandemic, the girls began to be anxious about their surroundings by not feeling safe, not wanting to play outside, or being afraid of bugs and so forth. For...
Why we love her: Claire always shows up on time with a smile and a great attitude. She can lead any of our program horses. Path to the Shea Center: “One summer I took horseback riding lessons at Sycamore Trails Stables and saw the Shea Center next door. I researched...
Our Annual Drive to Ride fundraising campaign supports rider financial aid, horse care, and priority programs. This year our fundraising goal is $275,000 and we need your help. Drive to Ride is a unique fundraiser that happens all online which allows for anyone to...
Randi Shannahan grew up in rural West Texas and received her Bachelor of Science degree with Honors in Animal Science with an equine concentration from Texas Tech University. While in college, she volunteered at the Texas Tech Therapeutic Riding Center and became a...
Why we love her: Oakley is very social and curious, gentle and kind with her riders. With her flashy coloring and long, expressive ears, she is the supermodel of the barn. Years of service: Oakley came to The Shea Center in January 2020, and was working through her...
Why we love her: Pascale has been a dedicated sidewalker and helps in the barn. She recently earned her horse leading certification. Path to The Shea Center: Pascale had been a long-time volunteer for local non-profits, including the local chapter of the American Red...
Lana is six years old and loves coming to her occupational therapy treatments using equine movement at The Shea Center! A client for just four months, she is making great progress. Lana was reaching all her milestones until at age 1, she began to regress. She...