The joy and pleasure that horseback riding brings to my daughter, Erin, who is six, and is afflicted with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, brings me even greater pleasure, as her mom.

Unfortunately, the simplest tasks are so difficult for Erin, due to the physical limitations of her muscles, yet she does not get discouraged. You won’t meet too many six year olds’ with her sense of determination. But to witness her laughter and her excitement while she is riding; I choke up every time. Erin is not aware that she is participating in yet another therapeutic session to assist her with her balance, core stability, and muscle strengthening, as well as increasing her confidence.  Erin is simply having a great time.

When Erin started her horse riding therapy, I had no idea what she would be participating in, and I had no idea what to expect. I had no concept of the fun she would be having, I had no prior knowledge that Erin’s leg muscles, while riding, would actually be mimicking real steps – steps that Erin has never taken on her own.  Yet, Erin’s legs have “walked” while riding “Pidge or Swoozie,” two horses who she now considers her friends, and who are her friends. 

Erin loves horseback riding, but in addition, to the riding and the fun, it is the staff at 4STEP that enhances the riders’ experience. The instructors, the volunteers, they care and they care sincerely and genuinely for these kids, our children. For the staff at 4STEP, it is all about the opportunities they can give to these children who are so unnecessarily and unfairly dealing with physical or mental limitations. They see the potential in these children and truly want to bring out their best or simply let them be who are they are.  The 4STEP staff recognizes the different abilities in each one of their clients and will maximize each rider's experience. This is a talented group.

When Erin and I leave from her riding session, she doesn’t stop talking about the great time she’s had and she wants to know exactly when we will be going back. And I, Erin’s mom, feel like I’ve just given the world to my daughter.

God is such the obvious common factor at 4STEP. His presence is absolutely everywhere, which contributes to the success of the program, the staff, and the accomplishments of the riders.