BEAMING Testimonials
Channon
Channon, one of our riders in a wheelchair, told us that she used to go to a nursing home and visit with residents as a way to give back to her community; however she had not done this in over a year due to depression.
She states, “BEAMING gave me the motivation and drive to start this up again. I have a purpose in my life now. BEAMING is a light for me, like a candle. If I can ride a horse, I can do a lot of other things too!” She is very proud that when she started out the season, she could only make one lap on her horse, and now with help from our staff, she has built her strength, balance, and endurance to ride up to 15 laps, steer her horse, and join group activities.
Allison
Another family brings their adult daughter from her group home to BEAMING. The father wrote, “Allison is not the only one to benefit from her lesson. As parents, my wife and I proudly observe Allison’s diligence and humor. Her success and happiness have enriched our lives immensely. The BEAMING staff is also a source of joy to us. We often remark that these loving, kind, and committed people do not have to be doing this. …My wife and I are so grateful for all your effort.”
Solara's Story
“My daughter, Solara, has William’s Syndrome. William’s Syndrome is a rare disorder, Solara has delays in speech, thinking skills, and physical abilities. She is also very trusting and outgoing which is typical with this syndrome. Solara is often looked at differently by the kids in her school. Now that Solara is horseback riding with BEAMING, she is able to connect with other girls on a much different level. Every little girl wants to ride a horse, and when they find out she can do something they don’t do, she suddenly fits in.
BEAMING has been such a holistic experience for Solara. She is physically much stronger and steady in her core. Mentally she is more solid and in control of her emotions. Emotional control is difficult for kids with Williams Syndrome. It has also helped her mature and develop confidence, and I’ve noticed that her developmental skills have really improved this past year.
Solara has wanted to learn to ride horses, but due to finances, I didn’t think it was an option. Why should I get her excited about something she wouldn’t be able to do because I couldn’t afford it? Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Now that we are with BEAMING, I will do whatever it takes to keep Solara riding those incredible horses.”
Sincerely,
Holly Tuyls, Mom of Solara Gomez
Testimonial below from a mother of one BEAMING rider:
“The benefits of BEAMING for Mark are that he can connect to something and keep his attention on something for more than 10 minutes. I’ve never seen him smile like when he is on his horse; to see the excitement in his face-it’s pure joy! He uses sign language to communicate, and has never requested any thing other than food in the past. At home he has started requesting to go to BEAMING and ride. That’s huge for us! For me personally as a Mom, I get to see him enjoy something, follow directions and be able to participate in something, almost like normal. It’s what every parent wants for their child.”
Shannon
