Testimonials

Gavin

My son, Gavin, has been part of the Brady Therapeutic Riding program since he was 4 years old (he’s now 6). Gavin is on the autism spectrum and his time with Sarah and her team have been wonderful. He has grown so much starting afraid to get on the pony to now looking forward to riding all week. Sarah has a wonderful connection with the kids and has never held back with Gavin due to his developmental disabilities pushing him in the best way possible. Gavin’s confidence progressing from riding the pony to being on a full size horse has been transformational and a joy to watch. He loves it!

We couldn’t be more grateful to be part of of the community and I can’t express how much this means to our family.

chase

My son, Chase (age 9) with a Phelan-McDermid Syndrome diagnosis & Autism, started Brady Riding therapy 2 years ago and it was the best therapy that improved his posture, core strength, sensory issues (before Brady he would never wear anything on his head let alone a tight helmet and would chew on non-food items), self-confidence and sense of calmness. Without Sarah & Hugh Meakin, Chase would not have the discipline he has today on his horse (Honey). We are so appreciative of this team and can’t imagine all the improvements without this OT exercise that has worked on his hypotonia (low-muscle tone) & sensory issues. Thank you, Brady Riding Therapy!!!

TEAGAN

Teagan has multiple disabilities including a severe form of treatment resistant epilepsy. When we first looked into therapeutic riding programs, we were told by another organization that they didn’t feel comfortable taking on a child like Teagan unless she could go 6 months seizure free. We were deeply disappointed and discouraged, because it is unlikely that Teagan will ever get to experience that kind of freedom from seizures. In hindsight, I am now thankful that we were turned away, because it gave us the opportunity to find the Brady Therapeutic Riding Program, which welcomed Teagan with open arms and saddles! And comparing the two programs, Brady provides an unmatched experience for Teagan and our entire family.

We have seen Teagan absolutely blossom during her time with the Meakins, their volunteers, and the darling horses at Brady. 

Our family is so grateful for this wonderful program, and for the incredible spirit Sarah Meakin infuses into the entire experience. Brady Therapeutic Riding program truly sees our special needs children as ABLE. And they make the experience for the entire family delightful.

Spending the morning or afternoon riding on the trails and in the arena with the Brady program is such a treat. It is therapeutic for the entire family, which is not something you come across very often in the special needs world. From the beautiful, calming outdoor scenery at the zoo, the delightful hospitality of tea, snacks, and charming british discourse with Hugh, to seeing your special needs child be fully supported, accepted and thriving, and to building lasting friendships and community with the other families and volunteers we get to meet along the way - Brady provides a program of unmatched value, and has a lasting impact on all those it touches.