36 SIDELINES NOVEMBER 2014
FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
Riding Center,” said Sissy DeMaria, founder and president of Give
a Buck for Special Equestrians. “Give a Buck is such a simple way
for the equine community to give back for all of the joys that horses
have brought to our lives. We’re so very grateful to our sponsor,
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Florida and look forward to expanding our reach throughout North
Carolina.”
Miika Rolett, executive director of ATRC, says the money will be
spent on riding equipment, scholarships for the center’s riders and
the care of the horses who carry such treasured riders like Aidan on
their backs each day. Given that ATRC provides therapeutic riding
to people from all over Western North Carolina, including residents
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donations will ensure that dozens of riders can continue to receive
the therapy they love.
ATRC is accredited by PATH International to provide therapeutic
riding programs to individuals living with a variety of medical
conditions. The center’s programs have helped riders with
developmental delays, cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments, autism,
head injury and strokes to improve their balance, muscle tone,
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“When Aidan had to take two seasons off from riding because of
the seizures he suffered, he was tormented,” said Aidan’s mother,
Mindy Hauser. “He has formed such a special bond with the horses
at ATRC and they really have helped in his physical and mental
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the horse started acting peculiar just minutes before Aidan had a
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looking out for Aidan.”
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therapeutic riding at ATRC has made on their children. For instance,
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hyperactivity disorder, but has improved his ability to maintain focus
and empathize with his friends and classmates as a result of riding
at ATRC. Although they must drive 25 miles to bring Jasper to his
weekly riding session, his parents say that it’s well worth the effort
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“Jasper connects with the animals and realizes that they all have
distinct personalities,” said Leo Peters, Jasper’s father. “He has been
riding at ATRC for about three years now, and we continue to be
impressed by ATRC’s staff and their dedication to the families who
ride there.”
Above: Miika Rolett helps a young
rider with the reins at Appalachian
Therapeutic Riding Center.
Photo courtesy of Miika Rolett
Below:
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horse at Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center.
Photo by Mindy Hauser
