Victoria

A letter from Victoria’s parents

Victoria is a beautiful 15 year old who has faced many health challenges over the past 8 years. Victoria was first diagnosed with a brain blockage and seizure disorder in 2006. She was hospitalized in May 2008 to manage and monitor her seizure disorder. In 2011 she was diagnosed with Scoliosis which caused Moderate Lung Disease. Victoria had a spine fusion surgery on May 2012 at Shriners Hospital for Children. Enduring a 7 hour surgery, titanium rods and bolts were attached to Victoria’s whole spine. Victoria’s recovery was grueling.

Her spine surgeon first cleared her to ride horses in November 2013 through the Shriners – Forward Stride Physical Therapy Program. The 3-week program was an introduction to riding and offered the moral and physical support required of a Shriners patient. It was through this program that Victoria got requited with her love for horses. Through the loving support of the instructors and staff members at Forward Stride, Victoria quickly built up her courage and strength to ride weekly at Forward Stride.

Victoria beams every time she sees her favorite horse, Harley. When riding him, it seems as if all her aliments dissipate! The program offers Victoria the loving encouragement required for her to regain control of her life in a therapeutic, loving environment while giving her the encouragement to combat not only her daily fears and back pain but also her stress and anxiety. We are in awe of the great advancement Victoria has made thus far.

We appreciate all that Forward Stride and Shriners Hospital for Children has done for our precious child. We look forward to our continued partnership with both outstanding Non-Profit Organizations as Victoria continues to heal and progress.

Thank you,

Tanya and Jaider Quintero