A Story of Healing and Hope: Inspired by Charlie When I look back at the beginning of Taking The Lead, I think of Charlie. Charlie was more than just a horse—he was a teacher, a healer, and the heart of this journey. It was with him that I first saw the magic of how horses could transform lives, offering peace, connection, and a sense of purpose to children and adults with disabilities. I remember a child who struggled with severe anxiety and communication challenges. They couldn’t find the words to express themselves, but when they met Charlie, something extraordinary happened. With each gentle step, Charlie encouraged the child to trust, to engage, and, eventually, to speak. It was in that quiet moment, when the child whispered their first words to Charlie, that I knew I had to use my gifts to create a space where moments like this could happen every day. This is why I founded Taking The Lead. I’ve always believed that everyone has the potential to grow, to heal, and to find confidence within themselves. Through therapeutic riding and occupational therapy on horseback, we’ve seen children take their first steps toward independence, adults discover focus and balance they thought they’d lost, and families come together with a renewed sense of hope. Charlie may no longer walk these fields, but his spirit is in every part of our work. When I see a child giggle during their session, or an adult achieve a goal they thought was impossible, I imagine Charlie looking down, proud of the lives we are changing together. This journey hasn’t been without challenges, but every day, I am inspired by the incredible courage of the people who come to us. They remind me why I started this endeavor. It’s not just about therapy or horses—it’s about creating a place where people can truly feel seen, understood, and celebrated. Charlie taught me that healing isn’t a straight line. It’s a partnership, a journey of trust and patience. And because of him, I am honored to use my gifts to help others discover their own strength. Charlie’s legacy lives on in the work we do, and I know he would be so proud of the lives we continue to transform—together.