Jess

Jess’ world changed forever when she was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that left her unable to move from the waist down. After being told that she might never walk again, Jess, an equestrian and Main Stay volunteer, determinedly returned to Main Stay; this time in a wheelchair, no longer a volunteer, but now a rider.

She knew that the power of the horse would help her find her way back. Fellow teen volunteers were by her side to lend their physical and emotional support. Her body weak from the disease and its treatments, Jess was exhausted after her first ride, but each week she bravely returned. And each week her core and legs became stronger through riding and the rhythmic movement of the horse. Gaining the strength to ride independently–first at the walk, then at the trot and eventually the canter.

Jess stopped by the farm this fall to say goodbye before leaving to begin her first year of college. She paused as she left the barn and turned and waved—and then walked to her car with only the assistance of her cane.