Hana's Testimonial

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My name is Hannah Goode and I am 10 years old. I started riding horses with PARD in 2011. I was born with Down Syndrome. Having Down Syndrome means I have to work a lot harder than other kids my age to do the same things. Sometimes, this makes it difficult to keep up with them.

When I came to PARD, I had never ridden a horse before, but I loved animals, so I wanted to give it a try. PARD has helped me to gain confidence in myself and work on my speech and social skills too. It is also a great way to strengthen my muscles and keep fit. I get to play a lot of games on my horse and last year I even started to trot!

The volunteers at PARD are great! They are always happy and friendly and they know a lot about the horses. I look forward to going every week. They encouraged me to try horses hows, and I have won two ribbons. Everyone was really proud of me.

This year, I am hoping to learn more about grooming and getting the horses ready for the people to ride. One day I want to learn to jump with my horse in the horse show, but that will take a lot of practice.

​When I grow up, I want to volunteer at PARD and lead the horses.

​– Hannah
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PARD's Charitable Registration No. 11909 1759 RR0001

PARD Therapeutic Riding operates on the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg, covered by the Williams Treaties. We honour the enduring presence of the Anishinaabeg, including Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, and Alderville First Nation, and recognize the stewardship of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Turtle Island.
We are grateful for the opportunity to gather, learn, and ride on this land. As an organization dedicated to accessibility, wellness, and community, we recognize that reconciliation requires more than words. We commit to ongoing learning, listening to Indigenous voices, and aligning our values of inclusion and care with the principles of truth and reconciliation.