Braeden has come a long way. When he first began riding at Fieldstone Farm, he struggled to stay focused and often couldn’t make it through a full 45-minute lesson.

Over time, Braeden began to work through the obstacles that come with autism and attention deficit disorder. He learned to follow instructions, to communicate more effectively with his instructor and fellow students, and eventually to walk and trot his horse around the arena with a volunteer by his side. Then came the day he was ready to ride on his own — a milestone his instructor, Winni, remembers well.

As his volunteer gently unclipped the lead rope from the bridle, Braeden took control. With reins in hand, heels down, core engaged and shoulders tall, he confidently guided his horse around the arena!

Everyone watched – Winni, the volunteers and his classmates who had seen his journey unfold over many months immediately felt a surge of pride. But it was the smile on Braeden’s face that said it all. He was so proud of himself and he felt such a sense of accomplishment.

He carries that confidence with him far beyond the barn every week.

“I’ve always loved seeing Braeden smile in class but these days that smile has much more meaning. It’s not just because he loves horses, it’s because he’s so proud of his accomplishments.” Winni, Braeden’s Instructor.