This is an account of Dortha Souers’ heartwarming journey beginning in January 1984 at the Orange County Riding Center, as The Shea Center was named then, told by her daughter, Cynthia White.

“At 61, Mom embraced horseback riding, becoming the oldest individual the Center served then. Apparently, riding a horse had been a lifelong dream for Mom, a revelation that surprised me, given our lack of exposure to horses.

“I don’t remember how I discovered the Orange County Riding Center, but the experience profoundly impacted Mom’s life. Mom had been an elementary school teacher but retired in her late 50’s due to multiple sclerosis. Confined to a wheelchair, she found support and strength through this unexpected experience.

“The volunteers at the Center were so welcoming and loving. They worked hard to keep Mom safe and ensured she felt important, improving her self-confidence.

“Getting onto the horse and riding had positive physical effects. Mom’s balance and arm strength improved measurably, enabling her to wheel her wheelchair for longer distances and further increase her self-assurance.

“A particularly memorable moment was Mom’s participation in the Swallows Day Parade; she was so proud and excited. I still have the video of the CBS broadcast.

“We learned that Ebony, the horse Mom rode who was donated to the Center, had once been Hoss Cartwright’s horse on the TV show Bonanza, which we all thought was super cool.

“In April 1984, Mom’s first granddaughter, Kristin, visited at 1.5 years old. She was allowed to sit on Ebony, and Mom was so happy to share the experience with her.

“The benefits Mom received at the Orange County Riding Center allowed her to pursue a passion for volunteering to teach reading to elementary school children.

“Mom’s time at the Center was one of courage and joy. She bravely accomplished her lifelong dream of riding a horse. These photos clearly show Mom’s happiness, delight, and sense of accomplishment, along with some of the people who helped Mom’s dream come true.”