06/29/2025
A multitude of stories have been gathered, each requiring hours to share. I am passionate about sharing stories of our students' accomplishments, milestones, and goals. Last week, while observing Jack start his work at the barn, his story resonated with me. It is one of numerous stories. Witnessing his transformation into a remarkable young man is a true blessing. Jack’s Journey with Horses
A Story of Growth, Connection, and the Healing Power of Horses
This is the story of Jack—a boy who’s extraordinary 11-year journey with horses began when he was just five years old. It’s a story of patience, resilience, and the unspoken bond between a boy and his horse.
It all started on a school field trip to the barn. Jack came with his classmates to meet the horses, brush them, feed them, and enjoy the day. All the children were laughing, smiling, and fully engaged—except Jack.
You see, Jack has autism. Unfamiliar places and overwhelming sensory input often trigger intense reactions. On most days, the sights, sounds, and smells become too much for him. He cried uncontrollably and eventually got sick to his stomach. His mother’s face said everything—how much she longed for her son to experience the world, to try something new, but in that moment, it simply wasn’t possible.
Gently, I asked his mom if I could hold him and bring him over to one of our horses, Dandy. Her eyes filled with hesitation.
“He may throw up on you,” she warned.
“I’ll take that chance,” I said.
To our surprise, Jack—still crying—allowed me to hold him. And as we approached Dandy, something extraordinary happened. Jack stopped crying… and he began to sing.
It’s a moment I will never forget. As I walked Jack and his mom back to the group, I quietly told her, “I can’t wait to see Jack here again. He’s going to do amazing things.”
But then, silence. Week after week, I hoped to see them return. I whispered quiet prayers that Jack’s journey with horses would continue. Months passed. Nothing.
Until a year later.
I was giving a presentation at a physical therapy office when a woman stood up and began sharing her story—about her son Jack and his unexpected connection with our horses. My heart leapt.
“It’s you,” I said. “It’s Jack.”
Life hadn’t been ready the year before. But now, it was. Jack was coming back—to begin his journey at RideAbility.
The day he returned, I asked his mom what her goal was for his first session.
“For him not to throw up or have a meltdown,” she said.
“What helps him feel safe?” I asked.
“His stroller,” she replied.
So, we rolled Jack into the arena, carefully placed a helmet on his head—an enormous sensory challenge on its own—and lifted him onto Dandy.
And just like before… Jack started singing.
From that day on, his bond with his horse grew. Every Saturday morning, Jack eagerly mounted Dandy, his face lighting up with smiles and songs. Gradually, we added grooming, feeding, and groundwork. He became an essential part of the barn community.
Then one day, the impossible happened.
Jack spoke.
The boy who once did not speak at all said his first word in the arena:
“Horse.”
Tears filled our eyes. It was pure joy.
As Jack’s confidence grew, he began learning mounted exercises. At first, he needed assistance, but soon he was riding nearly independently with less support—listening, following directions, gently stroking Dandy each time we paused. His calm, his focus, his growth, it was breathtaking.
We introduced steering: “This way,” “That way.”
Simple commands: “Go,” “Whoa.”
Jack began saying the words with intention.
Over time, Jack’s world expanded. On horseback, he worked on counting, identifying animals, learning letters, making music in the sensory area, and even playing basketball. The horse became his safe place—his bridge to learning and joy.
When he competed in his first horse show, he radiated pride. The boy who once struggled to stay regulated now beamed with confidence. He wasn’t just riding—he was thriving.
Jack’s autism never defined him. It revealed his unique gifts—his perseverance, his kindness, his beautiful connection to animals.
Fast forward ten years.
Why share Jack’s story now?
Because that little boy is now a teenager. And this summer, something incredible happened—Jack began working at the barn.
He’s taking on real responsibilities: cleaning and stacking water buckets, delivering alfalfa for the horses’ lunch, completing his tasks from start to finish. He knows when it’s a riding day, and he knows when it’s a work day—and he shows up for both with the same pride and determination.
Jack now follows instructions, works alongside others, and carries himself with a quiet confidence. He’s caring for the very horses that care for him.
Witnessing this transformation—from a little boy in a stroller struggling with meltdowns to a capable young man giving back to his barn—is one of the most powerful experiences of my life.
Our horses change lives. But the deep, magical bond they build with our students—that is where the true magic lives.
Walking alongside Jack on this journey has been one of the greatest blessings I’ve ever known. His story is a beautiful reminder to all of us:
It is not disability, it is ABILITY. Our students can do it, they will do it, they can succeed.
Thank you, Jack, for changing our lives, for teaching us patience, and for bringing your singing to our world.❤️❤️❤️
