Isaiah’s Story: Reclaiming Joy One Step at a Time
At 11 years old, Isaiah’s world was a small, dark place. He was afraid to go outside, terrified of bugs, and hesitant to try the simplest childhood joys like riding a bike or playing catch. His father’s emotional and physical abuse had eroded his self-worth, leaving him too scared to live a normal childhood.
When A Child’s Light first spoke to Isaiah’s mom, it was clear that traditional therapy might not reach him—he struggled to express himself. That’s when we introduced the idea of equine therapy. Horses, with their quiet strength and non-judgmental presence, have a way of helping children heal without needing words.
The first step was small: visiting the horses at Thorncroft. Isaiah didn’t have to ride or do anything that felt overwhelming. He brushed them, fed them, and cared for them. For the first time in a long time, he wasn’t afraid. Slowly, he opened up.
Within months, the boy who couldn’t bear to go outside was riding these magnificent animals with a smile on his face. His confidence grew, and it began to show in every area of his life. At school, he no longer needed an aide to sit with him at lunch. Isaiah—who once hid away—now chooses where to sit and who to sit with. Some days, he eats with friends. Other days, he sits alone—not because he has to, but because he wants to.
It’s hard to believe this is the same boy who once couldn’t see his own worth. In just over a year of therapy, Isaiah’s fears have given way to freedom. He rides bikes, he plays ball, and he’s no longer afraid to explore the world around him.
His mom says he’s a different child. We say he’s finally found himself again
