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About Courage Reins Farm
Courage Reins Farm was created to foster hope and courage in the lives of children. To our knowledge, Courage Reins Farm is the only not for profit organization of its type in Washington State. What makes it unique is that some of the horses living on the farm have been rescued from hardship and neglect. In turn, we are unique to the children we serve.
Unlike traditional therapeutic riding centers, all children who come to Courage Reins Farm are experiencing cancer or loss in their lives. Children are given private lessons best suited to their individual needs. Instead of being lost in a group, children receive individual support and attention from volunteers who share in their private tears and personal victories.
About Miriam
Thank you for taking a moment to read about my dream, Courage Reins Farm.
I have served as a registered nurse for over 25 years. I began my career in Oncology, then transferred to the Emergency Department where I worked for the next 18 years. From there I worked as a school nurse where I felt very fortunate to spend all day with children. In 2007 I returned to the public sector where I am currently working as a Hospice nurse.
My own life has been touched by cancer with the loss of my dad in 1999.
Seeing people of all ages battle with life threatening illness and watching their families stand by them has had a significant impact on me as a nurse, parent and family member. I understand the emotional impact from every perspective, as a caretaker, nurturer and daughter.
When my dad was ill, I would spend time with my daughters' horses. They were always willing to listen and to love. I watched the horses become my daughters' best friends as they grew into beautiful young women. I witnessed the strength and courage they gave my daughters on a daily basis.
After reading an article about Covenant Farm in Maryland, which offers equestrian activities for children with life threatening illnesses, my purpose in life became very clear. Courage Reins Farm now welcomes children from ages 3 to 18, whether it is themselves or a family member who is experiencing cancer.
Courage Reins Farm is here for children to work through the emotional cycles of their grief or loss. Horses can provide a kind of oasis - a resting place, where they can turn for momentary relief from the intense feelings. However, this oasis is not a place, but a living being, connecting them to life and accompanying them as they explore their changed lives. As they work through the cycles of the grieving process, children can turn from their sadness and focus their attention on the horse allowing them to find rest from the journey, food for the soul and courage to go on.
I hope you can come and meet our horses, brush them, love them, ride them and enjoy a moment of peace in the country.
Sincerely,
Miriam Ahearn, RN
President, Courage Reins Farm
My horse's feet are as swift as rolling thunder,
He carries me away from all my fears,
And when the world threatens to fall asunder,
His mane is there to wipe away my tears.
Bonnie Lewis
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