I never thought that I would need CATR as much as I do today.

As many of you know, I have volunteered for CATR for many years. I found great joy in helping students who are compromised on the ground, find freedom and happiness on the back of a horse. This is a joy I have known first hand through my own experience with horses over the years - a privilege made possible through the sacrifices and kindness of my parents. 

Today, my dear father, a career Air Force veteran, is riding in the CATR Veteran's Program. He is in the early stages of Alzheimer's - a disease that slowly but surely is filling his life with confusion and greater isolation. Some days are better than others, but CATR riding days are ALWAYS the best. The interaction with the wonderful volunteers, the country air and of course, the time with the horses, hearken him back to his life growing up on a farm in upstate New York. During a time in his life when things seem more difficult, he's learning something new and feeling the confidence and joy that comes with riding.  

What was once a pleasant opportunity to help my community has now become a passion. The smile on my father's face when he is riding is all the confirmation I need to know that this program has the power to enhance people's lives. 

I hope you will join me and make a gift today to support CATR. Your donations will help my father, and other veterans and children and adults with special needs experience the joy and freedom and most importantly, the heart-healing properties of horses. Many of you, my dear equestrian family in particular, have discovered for yourselves that nothing soothes the soul more than having your hands on a horse. How many tears have we shed on pony manes? How many dark days have been lightened by time with your horse? I can't even begin to count...

Thank you for your kindness~ 

Fondly, 

Debbie