Annsley was born on June 20, 2008. She was born with a heart condition called Cardiac Pulmonary Stenosis. She struggled to eat due to significant reflux. For the first six months of her life, we were in and out of the hospital multiple times. In November 2008, we completed genetic testing. An
nsley was diagnosed with a chromosomal deletion on chromosome 3p. We were told there were very few people in the world with this deletion and they were not sure what to expect.
Annsley has struggled with speech, gross motor, fine motor, and developmental delays throughout her life. A few years ago, I was looking for something for Annsley to be involved in other than traditional therapy. A friend suggested I look into therapeutic riding. We were not sure how Annsley would respond. She has severe anxiety, but she was excited when we came to visit Hope.
Annsley has been riding at Hope Horses for eight years and she loves it! We call it her “Happy Place”. She has learned so much and amazes us with her progress. Riding at Hope Horses has helped improve her core strength, balance, and flexibility. We have also seen improvement in her focus and attention to task. Annsley is now able to ride her horse independently and has a goal to work on her trotting skills.
Not only does Annsley love riding, but she adores the instructors and volunteers at Hope Horses. She knows everyone by name and loves to give them her famous hugs. Hope is a place where Annsley feels included. A place where she feels safe, loved, and a part of the family! We are so thankful for Hope Horses, and what this program has meant to Annsley and our family.
— Annsley’s Mom
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