Testimonials »

Medical Professionals

Medical and other professionals attest to the value of therapeutic riding as a part of the overall health management plan for people with disabilities.

"Something about the living aspect of a horse encourages the abductor muscles to relax and the legs to then spread out wide causing the rider to sit comfortably.  It's better than laying them (the rider) on a mat and forcibly stretching the legs,"  Doctor Andrew G. King, M.D. & Professor, Department of Orthopedics, Children's Hospital, New Orleans

“I have noticed a strength in his abdominal and arm muscles that wasn't there before.”  Yvonne Sturm, RN, nurse of a New Heights rider

Riders and Parents

"When a person with disabilities rides, they feel powerful and in control.  This radiates into every area of life."  Patricia Schoen, a teacher and parent of one of our young riders

"We are constantly amazed at the difference this therapy has made in my balance and ability to walk.  I can sit high in the saddle and feel like I am in control...and that is a wonderful feeling.  I am walking with much less effort and help.  Not only has New Heights helped me physically, but more so, they have helped me spiritually."  Joe, a 66 year old rider at New Heights

"He feels freedom.  He feels independence.  He feels powerful.  He feels skilled.  In  his daily life, as much as we try to set him up for success, he often feels frustrated and less than able, less than his peers in terms of what he can accomplish.

The work that is being done for people with disabilities at New Heights is so valuable.  It means many different things to all the participants (riders, parents, volunteers, instructors…).  But the common joy is that it changes all of our lives.  My family is stronger and happier because of what Walker can do at New Heights. 
You know, you can tell a child all day, everyday that they are wonderful, but nothing builds their self-esteem like success through their own actions."  MaryAnn Haase, parent of New Heights Rider

Volunteers

"I came to volunteer because of my love for horses. I stayed because of the students. I see how much they love these wonderful animals and how much they accomplish through this program. There is nothing I do that is more rewarding."  Katie Stevenson, volunteer

“When a child with disabilities rides, they feel powerful, in control and peaceful.  This radiates into every area of life.”  Patricia Schoen, New Heights riders’s parent