We have had the privilege of getting to know Shelley Anckner and having her come out to our Colorado dude ranch the past few weeks to ride horse.  She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago.  Her doctors told her to get back on a horse!  Horses are very good therapy for many people, but especially for those with Parkinson’s.  Riding horse helps with balance and strength.  Since riding one day a week for the past two weeks, Shelley feels her balance and strength is already greatly improving!  She actually feels more stable and comfortable riding horses than walking.  Great job Poncho!  Please read Shelley’s story below:

“I am a 60 year old woman who used to ride. I rode from when I was 10 til about 35, when raising children and going to school took precedence. A few years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease as well as both osteo arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in my hips and lower spine. As soon as we were able to get all my meds stabilized, one of my docs suggested I get back on a horse. Vanity and fear took over. What if I couldn’t ride anymore? What if it hurt and what if it caused injury? The doc said you already have PD, what’s it going to do? I waited a couple of years and then found Tarryall.

Now I ride every week. Any sense of power that I lost due to illness and fear I have gained back twofold. I cannot suggest a better form of therapy for those needed.  Also, although there are many stables closer to where I live, Kevin makes me feel comfortable and not disabled. It has been a joy to be there and I hope I can continue during the summer, maybe even exercising those horses that don’t get enough.  Thank you everyone at Tarryall for all your help and confidence in me!”

I would like to say thank you to Shelley for her courage and for sharing her story with us!  What an inspiration!