Call me a mother in denial…call me whatever you want.  I am a mother who is hurting.  

My daughter (who just happens to have autism and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) has been horseback riding for six years. She has the ability to post, trot and gallop. She is beginning to learn the art of jumping and enjoys every minute of the sport. Her riding capability is above most of the girls her age.  

This month, I have been calling riding centers to find out where she should continue her riding lessons. Within this process, I am required to submit my child’s medical profile. I have called upon three riding centers; and have been rejected by all three due to my daughter’s autism diagnosis. The first two rejections bounced right off my shoulders. Today, the third one crucified my heart.  

My child is a skilled and knowledgeable rider. Due to her medical diagnosis, she will not be able to participate in several riding programs. Discrimination…fears? I do not have the energy to fight these battles; but I am very disappointed in the assumptions of my child’s abilities.

I will continue to support my children and seek those who also support their abilities!