More than ten years ago when Luke's interest in swimming and soccer waned, I was on the hunt for weekend fun. While his brother's schedule was filled with positions on a variety of sports teams, Luke was spending the majority of his free time indoors.

Not content to let that become the norm, concerned that his life would be further insulated and as a result, too lonesome, I searched for an activity that Luke could claim as his own.

Finding the right brand of fun to suit his interests that would accommodate his specific needs proved to be challenging. Ultimately my inquiries led me to Pegasus Therapeutic Riding. Personally not an avid horse person, my reasoning was that Luke had a special connection with animals and this particular program was for kids with special needs. What's more, while riding they were receiving therapy; each exercise tailored to the individual's specific need all in the guise of fun!

The rest is history. More than eight years later, Luke is becoming quite an accomplished equestrian and groomsman. New doors have opened future opportunities as a life working in a barn is a reality should he make that choice.

Perhaps most moving of all is that the emotional benefits have been as extraordinary as the physical ones. The horse is the great equalizer; when riding Luke is liberated from any differences that may otherwise plague him. The smile on his face reflects the happiness in his heart, a result of his affection and connection with the horses, the outstanding, caring and supportive instructors and volunteers, and his own sense of pride in how far he has come.

As if that weren't enough to keep this mother in gratitude, eyewitness to how his life has become enriched in such a profound way, he now has an additional network of friends through Pegasus. Observing his personal community grow with so many wonderful and special people continues to mitigate any isolation that was the fabric of Luke's life for too many years.

When we cheer him on in the annual Pegasus Horse Show it is through tears and wonder at who he has become: "Our Jockey".

Cognizant that Pegasus is one of many wonderful programs, we invite you to share ones that have given you and your special person hours of recreational bliss!

We'd be thrilled to add your submission to our Recreational Directory. For guidance we've included Pegasus Therapeutic Riding as our first listing because the Pegasus family is forever embedded in our hearts.

Kindly contact us at Recreation@Lambdoodle.com with this pertinent information: Program Name, Mission, Location, Website Link and a brief explanation of your heartfelt experience. I'm confident that soon our directory will be overflowing with fabulous organizations that include our special members in the greatest equalizer of all: FUN!