How True Friends Helped me Conqur Another Fear

At the age of 7, I attempted to ride a horse and failed.  And when I say that I failed, what I really mean is I’m lucky I wasn’t seriously injured.  In fact, I felt like a cowgirl doing tricks at the World’s Toughest Rodeo would be an understatement.  The horse I was on took off running and I had lost complete control and I found myself holding on for dear life...on the underside of the horse!  I swore that I’d never get on a horse again, until the following summer when a friend begged me to go horseback riding with her.  I told her that it was something I couldn’t do, but she had so much faith in me and assured me that I would succeed the second time around.  So, I faced my fear and got back on the animal only to find myself on the underside once again as it galloped down the dirt path.  As terrifying as this was, I soon learned to tell the story with much laughter, but I knew that I would NEVER ride again. No matter what!!!  Or so I thought.

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking to the staff at True Friends, a camp whose mission is to “provide life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities.”  While I was honored to share my message of trust, positivity and gaining a better appreciation for the little things in life, they were able to help me overcome my fear of horses!  

Prior to taking the stage, I met with their True Strides staff (Shari, Linda, Kim) who assisted me with a one hour horse therapy session.  They were incredibly patient, friendly, supportive and just as excited to help me face my fear as I was to overcome it!   I not only got on the horse, but I did so without hesitation simply because I knew that these wonderful woman would keep me safe.  Thanks to the staff at True Friends, Riding Kal was an amazing experience that I soon won’t forget.  


It’s no surprise that adults and children come from all over the United States to experience the magic of True Friends!  I encourage you to check it out; maybe it’s just what you need to put an extra smile on your face this summer. 
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