An Amazing Week- NSBA World Show 2021

 What an amazing week this has been! 

Oh how very different my two children are. From a very early age, Alex has had a self assurance and confidence that comes so naturally to him. He can speak to anyone from young children, to CEO's to Congressmen. He is comfortable in his own skin. He is unashamed of his "attachments" and will speak candidly about his medical problems. He is outgoing and friendly and fearless. For Maddy, on the other hand, confidence is hard to come by. She avoids speaking to people she doesn't know well, she doubts her abilities, she is "nervous" more often than not. She would prefer that I speak for her and needs extra hugs and reassurance before most things. 

Maddy's fears almost stole what she loves most in this world. Late last year she had several instances on a horse that caused her to doubt and almost stole her joy in riding. Desperate for her to find her love of riding again, I asked her Therapeutic riding Coach to do a private lesson each week where they could try and move at Maddy's pace. Starting in January, I watched as week after week Tammi poured into Maddy. I watched trust grow between them and with Hunter (a gentle giant as Tammi calls him) as their chosen horse, I watched my girl come alive. From that first lesson, Tammi and Maddy and Hunter have been a team (with Jan as their volunteer to lead Maddy when needed). I have watched Tammi nurture, assure and push when necessary. I have watched their love grow. I have seen them laugh and cry and work hard. I have watched my sweet girl push through, fear, through pain, through not feeling well with a grit and determination that is hidden beneath that shy demeanor. When Tammi first asked us to attend the NSBA World Show, my first question was whether she was ready...not physically, but emotionally. Tammi assured me she was. This week I watched my little firecracker ride beautifully. She conquered every fear and entered an arena filled with people and have the spotlight on her (her worst fear). I watched as she cried tears of pride when she placed in her first world show. I watched as she cheered on every one of her teammates. I watched her soak up the joy and love from the volunteers and staff who have loved on this child week after week. To say this week was amazing is an understatement!

Allison (Managing Director at VTC) has been there to cheer her on every step of the way

Becky is convincing Maddy it is okay to talk to people

This girl is beautiful inside and out

Sarah, one of Maddy's favorite people at VTC (and her makeup artist)

One of Maddy's favorite volunteers

Ready to Show

Ready to Go

Western Pleasure

Accepting her Medal

Tears of Pride when she got to Tammi

Western Trail

Jan, Maddy's leader since the beginning

These medals are so much more than awards...they are the representation of a little girl who has overcome so much because of the love of the staff and volunteers at Victory Therapy Center. I will be forever grateful!

Ali