You never forget your first time riding a horse. The intimidation as you approached the animal, staggered by its unbelievable size. The slow-eyed look it gave you in return, watching you and determining what kind of rider you’d be. Your slow ascent onto its back, pulling yourself up by the stirrup as you swung a leg over the saddle. The feel of the reins in your hand.
And then finally, the freedom. The wind on your face as animal and human move as one, your movements synchronized as the exhilaration of your mount’s incredible speed takes over.
It’s a moment that can change lives.
Few people know just how significant that change can be, but Jennifer Long and Tom Richardson know. As program director for Moss Creek Stables Equine Assisted Program, Long combines extensive experience as a Special Olympics coach with a deep respect for those with disabilities.
“I have some people show up who have autism, some who are blind, some who are confined to wheelchairs … but when they get out of the car, they’re so excited to be a part of this program,” Long said.
Pete Boise begins tacking Wish as he gets ready for a fun morning of riding at Moss Creek Equestrian Center.
The genesis of the equine program came about when Long moved back to the area and was trying to get back into working with horses, something she’d done since she was a kid.
Owner of Moss Creek Equestrian Center Tom Richardson and daughter Hayley attend to the barn’s seven-month-old filly.
“I was just calling around because I wanted to start riding. I have two kids, so sometimes I just need a little ‘me’ time,” she said with a laugh. “Tom was the only person who called me back. He made me feel like I was part of the family.”
Long was in the ideal spot to help Richardson launch a program that helps 20 riders of various abilities experience the healing touch of a horse.
Ian Kody gives Chunky some affection after the warm-up.
“We started out small, with eight riders at first, and did a lot of ground work,” Richardson said. “Those same riders are still with us, and they have progressed so much, from ‘I can’t do this’ to ‘I did this.’”
The goal for the coming year is to expand that core group of riders to 30, although Long imagines they could as many as 50 with the right resources. Helping them find those resources is the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which lists the Moss Creek Stables Equine Assisted Program among its many deserving programs.
Jacob Boise bridling his horse, Maggie, with the nose latch.
“Therapy is expensive,” Long said. “I want to grow this program, but only as long as people don’t have to pay for it.”
While they accept children into the program, Long has seen how many programs for youth already exist in the area and tries to reserve her spots for adults.
“There is a huge population of people with special needs locally. But once they get out of school and turn 18, a lot of the programs dry up,” Richardson said. “We love the children, but this is the need we’re trying to fill.”
It’s an effort that makes a world of difference to their riders. Through the equine program, these students are discovering a wider world beyond their own disabilities and perspectives.
“Horses can hear a heartbeat from three to four feet away. That’s why they always say that a horse can tell if you’re nervous or edgy,” Long said. “Once (our riders) get on the horse, it just makes them so happy. It’s cliché to say it’s a gift, but they give you the tightest hugs after they’re done riding. They show up knowing that their day is going to turn around and they’re going to have fun.”
To give a gift to your neighbors and help create those moments of happiness, consider donating to the Moss Creek Stables Equine Assisted Program. Visit cf-lowcountry.org and click “donate now.”
Jacob and Maggie get ready for the next exercise while Alex Mallard looks on.
Ian Kody works on steering Chunky through the blocks while Janice Casey and Jennifer Long look on for safety.