Tobin, diagnosed with epilepsy, is six years old and has been a Shea Center adaptive riding client for a year. Adaptive riding lessons develop horseback riding skills in individuals with disabilities and aim for each client to reach their highest level of independence in mounted and non-mounted equine activities.

According to Erica, Tobin’s mom, when she began at the Center, Tobin was hesitant and not very comfortable with what was expected of her. Since starting at Shea, Tobin has become more willing to engage in new or uncomfortable situations. She doesn’t like wearing a helmet or tight shoes, but now realizes that to ride, she must. Tobin’s instructor, Mari, comments, “Tobin has shown tremendous growth in this area. She has gone from refusing to wear the helmet to getting it on and allowing me to secure it on her head. This is huge progress!

Today, Tobin has a big smile and is excited to visit The Shea Center each week and see her sidewalker, Howard. She loves telling her parents about her horse, Artex, and various activities.

Erica remarks, “Since starting at The Shea Center, we have seen growth in Tobin’s self-confidence and willingness to persevere through tasks that she finds challenging. Fine motor skills have been difficult for Tobin. With the combination of occupational therapy and working on fine motor strength while riding, we have seen her fine motor skills improve significantly, in addition to her desire to try more activities.”

Mari states, “As instructors, we work on making riding a comfortable and fun activity for our clients. When Tobin started at The Shea Center, holding her reins with “thumbs up” was difficult. She started with reins that have a loop attachment, making it easy to later transition to properly holding the reins. Tobin now holds her reins “thumbs-up” with zero issues and is always ready to ride! I am so proud of the growth Tobin has accomplished thus far in her riding!”

Erica continues, “When you have a child with any diagnosis, you worry about how they will be able to participate in typical children’s activities and how that diagnosis will affect their day-to-day life. The Shea Center has shown our family that Tobin can join in all sorts of activities with the proper support.

“We are so thankful for all the encouragement Tobin has received since starting at The Shea Center and know she is learning valuable lessons she will carry with her for the rest of her life.”