Dakota began therapy at the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center when she was 3½ years old. She has a brain malformation called polymicrogyria (PMG), which affects her motor skills, speech, emotional regulation, and cognition. As a result, Dakota also has cerebral palsy and benefits from additional support to help her thrive.

When Dakota’s mom first learned about therapy through CTRC, she immediately felt it would be a perfect fit. The idea that a horse’s movement could help Dakota’s brain form new neural connections, different from those developed through traditional therapies, gave her hope. After a short time on the waitlist, Dakota began riding and quickly started making progress. Within months, she was able to stand unassisted for longer periods, her balance improved, and she became more eager to communicate with her therapist. Riding also helped her grow more confident and encouraged her to use her left side, something she had previously been hesitant to do.

Now 6½ years old, Dakota has been riding consistently for three years and looks forward to every session. “This program has offered so much to our family,” Dakota’s mom shared. “Thank you for making CTRC possible and for changing lives year after year, including Dakota’s.”