This month’s Mission Moment is all about Presley Parham and her incredible skills demonstrated in therapeutic riding during the past 6-week session. Presley has been coming to Midland Children’s Rehabilitation Center for 7 years, and has been part of our therapeutic riding group since 2014. You’ve probably seen her perform at our Rodeo Play Day in previous years, but this year Assistant Barn Manager Laura Buzbee wanted to praise how far Presley has come.
During this previous session, Presley has been showing true horsemanship by walking and trotting independently around the arena and doing 6-step show patterns. Presley’s condition requires her to use crutches at all times, but she is leading her horse independently around the arena on a regular basis. This is truly significant because of her diagnosis of hypotonia, a condition that results in low muscle tone and weakened muscle strength. She is one of the most advanced riders Laura has seen in the program, and we are so proud of how far she has come!
As with all of the professional services offered at MCRC, our equine therapy services have such a positive impact on so many levels. The inner light that shines through when our students succeed impacts far beyond the student—family, neighbors, teachers, and all who interact with these children can feel the joy kindled from the pride and accomplishments they see.
