LifeStriders Derby Days Fundraising Event
Instead of placing your bets, place your donations and be a part of the
life-changing work at LifeStriders.
Instead of placing your bets, place your donations and be a part of the
life-changing work at LifeStriders.
Greta and Stormy have taken the win at the wire with Abby and Buck running a phenomenal race in 2nd by just mere inches.
Matthew and JJ in 3rd and WHAT A RACE! It was down to the wire and all of our jockeys have run an INCREDIBLE race raising over $16,000 for LifeStriders programs and services. They have crossed the finish line and this Derby Days is one for the books as Abby and Buck and Greta and Stormy grappled for first to the very last second. Congratulations to all of our jockeys for an unforgettable race and congratulations GRETA AND STORMY our 2020 Derby Day Champions!!!!! I am always excited for my weekly riding lesson at LifeStriders. I am able to work on my balance, motor planning and following directions. It is a place where I feel excepted and have made great friends.
~ Kevin |
Melanie's Story
Melanie was born with a genetic variant which causes her to suffer from Dravet Syndrome. It’s a severe epilepsy accompanied by a host of other problems, including cognitive and developmental impairment, orthopedic issues, low muscle tone, etc. Before Melanie began riding at LifeStriders at age 5, she could not run, she walked with poor gait, belly out due to low tone, and couldn’t lift her arms above her shoulders. I remember watching her on the horse about a year and a half later, sitting up straight, high-fiving her sidewalkers across her body, rolling a ball around her waist and up and down the horse’s neck, and holding a ball on top of her helmet! She could hold her belly in, her gait had improved, and she'd learned to run shortly after she began riding. At age 9, we took her to a new neurologist: one of the top specialists in Dravet. She was pleasantly shocked to see ZERO signs of crouch gait forming. Almost all Dravet patients develop this gait/posture. I told the doctor about horseback therapy, and she said that was probably the main reason why she is so strong and straight. “Don’t stop doing that!” she told us. We don’t plan on it! I am so incredibly thankful for this wonderful place and these amazing people who have made such a huge impact on Melanie’s health. And she’s loved it since day one! 
Danica's Story
LifeStriders has been a part of our life for almost 2 years. Our 11-year-old daughter, Danica, has been horseback riding there weekly. A few months ago, she also joined the weekly social skills group. LifeStriders has definitely changed her life. Riding has given her more confidence, coordination, and independence. It is the highlight of her week and makes an impact in her attitude. We notice a difference right after riding. She suffers from high anxiety and this has helped to reduce her medication over the years. Before riding, she was afraid of dogs, but since has jumped right into riding horses and fell in love. The addition of the social skill group was a blessing. After the first session she got into the car and said, “ Mom I have friends!!” They are the sweetest and kindest group of girls/families and we are so lucky to be a part of it. The instructors are patient, dedicated and driven to help them succeed. LifeStriders is an amazing organization and we are so grateful to be involved. ~ Danica's Mom |
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Tiffany's Story
“I am a 31 year old disabled combat veteran. In 2012, I was injured in Afghanistan from a 250lb improvised explosive device. Since then, I’ve continually worked with doctors and therapists towards healing both physically and mentally. My frustration has grown since I have yet to receive the help or answers I’ve needed. I started riding last July in hopes it would help me with my mental health, but little did I know, it would help me physically as well. I’ve had 4 hip surgeries along with numerous other procedures to help with the injuries sustained in the blast. During each lesson, I’m able to get away from all the chaos in my head and just focus on my horse. In doing so, I’m able to create a bond that helps me grow not only as a rider, but overall person as well. I am also able to work on regaining my flexibility, strength work, balance, and working as a team with my horse, something I miss from the Army. Lifestriders has been an amazing outlet for me and I am forever grateful for the charitable opportunity I was given to ride there!" ~ Tiffany
Abby's Story
"The programs at Lifestriders have drastically impacted my life and made me a better person. When I first came to Lifestriders I
felt stuck in my life and looked down on myself. The staff at Lifestriders taught me to find confidence in myself and taught me
skills to challenge myself, set goals, and reach for them, both on and off the horse. There is nothing more re-energizing for my
spirit then being on a horse and having the confidence that we will work towards my goals together." ~ Abby
LifeStriders provides an innovative and unparalleled experience as the most trusted partner in psychological, physical and occupational therapies, and equine facilitated treatments.
Serving over 180 individuals with special needs each week including children, teens, adults, seniors, military veterans, and their families, LifeStriders is embraced as more than a therapy center. Our clients describe our campus as their “happy place”, their gym, their playground, and their adventure. Whether they’re in the arena or outdoors on 23 acres of fields and trails, they are able to socialize, rise above their limitations, learn to walk, talk, stand tall with friends, and make lasting life strides.
Serving over 180 individuals with special needs each week including children, teens, adults, seniors, military veterans, and their families, LifeStriders is embraced as more than a therapy center. Our clients describe our campus as their “happy place”, their gym, their playground, and their adventure. Whether they’re in the arena or outdoors on 23 acres of fields and trails, they are able to socialize, rise above their limitations, learn to walk, talk, stand tall with friends, and make lasting life strides.
COVID-19 may have much of the world standing still, but the individuals who depend on LifeStriders to help manage their special needs are till running their races, and we need your help so they can continue reaching their goals.
Support LifeStriders' mission while racing your favorite horse and rider team to the winner's circle!
From now through May 5th, 2020 when you place your donation on one horse and rider's name, that team will advance on their track below. The first team to reach the finish line on May 5th, will be named the LifeStriders' 2020 Derby Day champion.
LifeStriders is their Churchill Downs. Here is your chance to support LifeStriders "jockeys" as they run for the roses.
COVID-19 may have much of the world standing still, but the individuals who depend on LifeStriders to help manage their special needs are till running their races, and we need your help so they can continue reaching their goals.
Support LifeStriders' mission while racing your favorite horse and rider team to the winner's circle!
From now through May 5th, 2020 when you place your donation on one horse and rider's name, that team will advance on their track below. The first team to reach the finish line on May 5th, will be named the LifeStriders' 2020 Derby Day champion.
LifeStriders is their Churchill Downs. Here is your chance to support LifeStriders "jockeys" as they run for the roses.
