Eighteen months ago, when Cherie first arrived at her local RDA group, she wasn’t sure what would be possible.

Even getting on or off a horse felt uncertain. But the reassurance she received from the instructor that day stayed with her, giving her the confidence to give it a try. It marked the beginning of a journey that would slowly begin to change her life.

Before joining RDA, Cherie’s world had become very limited. She struggled physically and had lost much of her independence, describing a time when she “couldn’t drive… couldn’t walk properly… couldn’t do anything.”

Alongside that came a loss of confidence and a sense that life had become difficult to enjoy.

Through regular sessions at RDA, that began to shift.

“My life started to become colourful”

With the support of volunteers and the calm, welcoming environment at RDA, Cherie gradually began to rebuild her strength and confidence.

Now, Mondays have taken on a new meaning.

“Every Monday, I come to life,” she says. Having that routine and knowing she will be supported each week has given her something to look forward to again.

The atmosphere plays a big part in that. From the volunteers to the ponies, Cherie describes it as feeling like “a big warm hug,” where everyone is welcoming and encouraging.

As her confidence has grown, so has her independence. One of the moments that stands out most to her has been being able to drive again something she once thought she might not regain.

“I’m stronger… I’ve got more zest for life,” she says.

The impact has also been felt at home. Her husband, Dave, has watched that change week by week and describes how much it has meant to see Cherie enjoying life again.

For both of them, it has brought a renewed sense of energy and positivity, with Dave simply describing it as feeling like they are “living again.”

For Cherie, the difference goes beyond physical progress. It has helped her feel like herself again – able to take part in life and to contribute in ways that once felt out of reach.

“I feel like I can do things that I couldn’t do before… I can share things, I can contribute to life,” she says.

Cherie’s story reflects the impact RDA can have, helping people rebuild confidence, regain independence and reconnect with a sense of purpose.

With the support of volunteers, donors and local communities, RDA groups across the country continue to provide these opportunities for participants and their families.