Life without barriers: this is the motto, indeed the very soul, of the Halleck Creek Ranch. Its therapeutic horseback riding program and equine-assisted therapies, used by clients with a range of challenges, have been working their compassionate magic for over 38 years. The organization’s committed staff, supporters and volunteers never cease directing their creative efforts towards ongoing and long-term sustainability. This year they will be honoring Amberley Snyder by presenting her with their Silver Buckle Award during their third annual dinner and fundraiser on Nov. 20 at Rancho Nicasio. This award recognizes people who are helping others overcome obstacles to healthy, happy and productive lives.
Amberley has loved horses since she was 3 years old, though like many of the nonprofit’s clients, she depends on a wheelchair. But she was not born with physical challenges. Five years ago, when she was a recent high school graduate, a brief look away from the road to check directions resulted in a solo accident. Two days later in the hospital, one of attendant paramedics visited her and remarked, “You know Amberley, if you had been wearing your seatbelt you’d have use of your legs today.” This was something she was usually vigilant about, except for that day. The comment stung. Was her life meant to take a different turn?
Right in that moment her mother, tender to her daughter’s anguish, put her hand on Amberley’s legs. The medical team’s diagnosis had been that she would never regain any use or feeling in her legs. But she felt a little spot of feeling! Her mother’s loving touch revealed a miracle.
Many thought that because she was now a paraplegic, she would never be able to ride again. But her faith, her trust in God, and her extensive support system all strengthen her belief that “regardless of what you are told, you need to hold onto hope and faith.”
While she has understandable moments of discouragement, her determined attitude energized her. For her that meant riding, specifically barrel riding. She set goals for herself, worked with family and therapists to realize them and within months of the accident was back on her horse.
We can learn a lot from Amberley. She loves hard work, is invigorated by goals, can tweak her goals along the way, and constantly reviews her objectives each day. She has both taught herself and been taught by her parents to be a leader. She is passionate and compassionate. She focuses on what she can do, not on her limitations. She keeps her goals realistic but still challenges herself and frequently considers her options and opportunities.
Halleck Creek Ranch’s annual dinner and fundraiser, including a silent auction, starts at 6 p.m. with a V.I.P. reception followed by general admission event at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $125. Attendees can also sponsor a table or donate to Fund-A-Need.
Grace Rogers, a retired psychologist, lives in Nicasio, where she has been active in local affairs since the 1970s.