Liam’s Story
Written by Liam’s parents, Pete and Lee Caraher
“Liam was an Adaptive Riding client at NCEFT from September 2008 until we moved to Wisconsin in July of 2019. Liam has a developmental disability that includes a speech delay and hypotonia (low muscle tone). We were always looking for opportunities to build muscle tone in his upper body, and over time, his weekly riding at NCEFT started to improve his strength and coordination.
As he physically improved, we also recognized personal strengths emerging, including his growing confidence and ability to interact with adults and other clients. Riding a 1,000 pound horse was no problem for Liam! After several years of riding, Liam began to volunteer for NCEFT’s Veterans Programs, showing lots of love and acceptance of people who had an injury or sickness. Not only did Liam learn how to ride at NCEFT, but he also learned how to be a light for people who needed a little extra help and support. NCEFT has allowed Liam to be who he is now: a man who doesn’t recognize he has a disability, and somebody who cares for others.
NCEFT provides children and adults with disabilities a special place where they can grow as riders and as humans in their community. NCEFT is about inclusion where everyone is welcome–whatever their needs may be. Thank you NCEFT for all you have done for Liam and our entire family.”
Learn more about NCEFT’s horses here.
