Amelia is an adorable four-year-old preparing to start transitional kindergarten next fall. On her first birthday, she experienced cardiac and respiratory arrest, triggering a genetic activation event that led to her diagnosis of a rare and progressive condition known as Unknown Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). In addition, doctors identified several related conditions, including Pulmonary Fibrosis, Non-Cardiac Pulmonary Edema, Epilepsy, and a KCNQ1 gene mutation (Short QT), all linked to her cardiac arrest. As a result, Amelia depends on oxygen therapy and will eventually require a lung transplant.

Spending so much time in doctors’ offices and hospitals, Amelia’s parents sought therapy outside of a clinical setting. Through their military social worker and medical team, they discovered The Shea Center—a place that has since become a source of joy and motivation for Amelia.

At times, her challenges feel overwhelming, making it difficult to keep fighting. But riding at The Shea Center has reignited her spirit. The moment she arrives, her face lights up with joy and excitement.

Recently, she proudly stood on Boog’s back during a physical therapy session utilizing hippotherapy. Her physical therapist, Caitlin Wands, shares, “Amelia is making progress in all areas. In particular, she’s improving her endurance and strength, maintaining different positions on her horse, Boog, and building the cardiovascular stamina to take our mini horse, Mac n Cheese, or our facility dog, Tex, for a walk at the end of her session. She’s also gaining confidence in navigating uneven terrain and new environments.”

“In just four short months, Amelia has grown so much stronger,” says her mother, Brittany. “Her posture, reflexes, and confidence have all improved. She’s braver, proud of herself, and most importantly, her mental drive has returned. This feels like a second chance.”

Read and support Amelia’s Drive to Ride story here.