TITLE: Honoring the Stars and Strides Stables Therapeutic Riding Center in Weatherford.

SUMMARY: Honoring the Stars and Strides Stables Therapeutic Riding Center in Weatherford.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Stars and Strides Stables Therapeutic Riding Center in Weatherford has enriched the lives of children and adults with disabilities by giving them the opportunity to experience the myriad benefits of horseback riding; and WHEREAS, The nonprofit organization was founded in 2012 by owners David and Teresa Miller, whose daughter, Courtney, was born with Kabuki syndrome, a condition associated with various physical and cognitive differences; the Millers enrolled Courtney in equine-assisted therapy when she was nine years old and were impressed with the impact it had on both her health and self-esteem; Ms. Miller, who earned certification as an equine therapy instructor through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, was inspired to open a facility of her own in Parker County; the organization has since grown from serving two clients to approximately 50 clients per week, and it has added a number of experienced former show horses to its stables; and WHEREAS, Stars and Strides provides equine-assisted therapy to children and adults with a variety of different disabilities, and it now includes a Protectors Program for veterans and first responders who are recovering from post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic injury; all riders are encouraged to begin riding independently as soon and as safely as possible, and with the help of caring guidance and instruction, young clients often exceed their parents' expectations with what they can accomplish; some of the program's students have gone on to compete in equestrian shows for riders with special needs, as well as in open shows for riders of all ability levels; and WHEREAS, In just seven years, Stars and Strides Stables has contributed to the health, happiness, and well-being of many individuals and gained a well-deserved reputation for excellence, and David and Teresa Miller may take great pride in the outstanding program they have built; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby honor the Stars and Strides Stables Therapeutic Riding Center for the beneficial service it offers to people with disabilities and extend to David and Teresa Miller sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Stars and Strides as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. King of Parker Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1457 was adopted by the House on May 10, 2019, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House