January 2023: Mark and Ethan McCollum
Mark and Ethan McCollum
Stride Ahead’s first Volunteer/Rider Team of the Month!
Dad (Mark) and Rider(Ethan) came to Stride Ahead in June 2022 following Mark’s search of the web for horseback riding programs for individuals with disabilities. Now many months later Ethan loves riding Nash and says he "feels free" when he and a fellow rider are riding tall on their horses with Instructor Abbey is always encouraging, telling them “good job!” Mark enjoys watching Ethan, who suffers from anxiety and is scared of many things. At Stride Ahead Ethan is loving the people and he is taking care of the horses with no fear.
At times TEAM Mark and Ethan work together at Stride Ahead and at other times they share their energies, skills and eagerness as they learn with other volunteers and riders. For example Mark recalls the day he worked with a Stride student and watched her respond to him while riding the horse. Mark says this gave him a feeling of doing something that was life changing. In fact Mark tells us that being with the kids and the volunteers is like being part of a family. “I love the time I get to spend with the kids and the volunteers. It gives me a feeling of peace in this crazy world we live in.”
In the past medical and other professionals have told Ethan and his parents about milestones and goals he will not achieve. His parents believe it might take Ethan longer but he can achieve anything he tries. Mark reports that Stride Ahead gives Ethan a sense of pride and he tells everyone he meets that he takes horseback riding lessons with Stride Ahead. This program has truly changed Ethan’s life. Mark adds: "Stride Ahead gives kids from all walks of life with all types of disabilities a chance to do something other kids only dream about. Seeing the students groom and care for the horses really makes them feel special and gives them a sense of responsibility.”
Mark and Ethan, so glad you're a part of Stride Ahead!!
Thank you, Mark and Ethan!
If you would like to make a donation in honor of Mark and Ethan and all of our wonderful riders and volunteers who make Stride happen, thank you.
