Andrea's Story

I'm Andrea and I'm part of the Free Rein family. In the spring of 2010, I was asked to be a speaker at an assistive technology class at Eastern Washington University. The speaker after me was Sandy Jones, who is the founder of Free Rein Therapeutic Riding. I was introduced to Sandy after her presentation and I started riding in June of that year.

I have cerebral palsy and am confined to a wheelchair. Sitting up straight is very hard for me. The movement of riding a horse stimulates and strengthens my muscles, enabling me to sit up with just the support of my side walkers. It has made my neck and back stronger, and has improved my flexibility. I am more independent and I can do more for myself around my house.

There are so many things about riding that I love. Grasping the reins is amazing. It is so cool to be in charge of the horse's movements. It feels like I'm driving a car! Riding is so much different that using my wheelchair. It makes me feel in control and free. After I am done riding, I am in a great mood and can hardly wait for my next riding adventure!

In 2014, I was inspired to write a book titled Free Rein-In' with Chester about my riding experiences. Chester was a very special horse to me. I was able to ride Chester for several years until he retired. You can read more about my riding experience in my book!

Here are some of things my mom says about Free Rein: "It has been fun watching our daughter ride horses over the years. We are so proud of how successful and independent it makes her feel. Sometimes she is totally exhausted at the end of her riding session, but she still has a huge smile on her face. We thank the instructors and volunteers for helping Andrea to experience horseback riding." 

Your support will help cover classes, instructor certifications, volunteer training, and horse care - everything that makes Free Rein's programs possible. 

Even a small gift goes a long way: $30 helps welcome a new volunteer (or two!), $75 funds a full class for one special rider, and $125 covers a month of hay for one of the heroes in the herd. 

Please join me in reaching our goal and making a real difference in the lives of all involved!