So often in life when we find something we are passionate about, we dwell inside its existing realms, rather than envisioning new ways to pursue it. Yet on occasion, our experiences allow us to dream of something new and expand the industry.
Ashlyn Batten is a young woman who has done just that. After years of dedicating her time in service at various therapeutic riding programs, and accumulating the necessary credentials for the field, she co-founded Moonbeams and Miracles with her dear friend Sherri Moore.
Moonbeams and Miracles is a therapeutic riding program with specialty programs such as interactive vaulting and has located its niche as a form of social outlet for teens in Pitt County and beyond.
The story behind its name speaks to the sincere heart of its creators, and their commitment to horses, faith, and bettering the lives of others.
Just before the start of COVID, one of their beloved horses, Ollie, had fallen ill to a mysterious illness. Two other horses had died and he was fighting for his life as this sickness baffled regional vets. Ashlyn and Sherri stayed in the barn around the clock to monitor his symptoms, and Sherri awoke to discover the full moon had a perfect cross across the middle of it, which she pointed out to Ashlyn.
Both girls had never seen anything like it, and Ashlyn remembers suddenly feeling like everything was going to be okay. Although Ollie continued declining, a kind vet at NCSU allowed her some time with him, and Ollie placed his head in her arms for hours. Taking the strength and love he felt from his companion, Ollie made a miraculous recovery, and the name of their new business was born.
Today, the barn offers a clean and pleasant atmosphere to welcome participants with all different abilities. From groundwork to horse care to saddle time, catering to the needs of each individual is a special talent of Ashlyn and Sherri, and they’ve done so through creating special lead ropes for those with hand struggles, and alternative ways of communicating commands to horses for those who are nonverbal.
Horses are well equipped to adapt and listen to the individual and at Moonbeams and Miracles, each child gets to experience that love.
For more information, visit www.moonbeammiracles.org or you can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/moonbeammiracles
The community is also invited to an Open House and Family Fun Day on Saturday, October 23 from 12-4 in Grimesland, NC. It will include unicorn photos, pony painting experiences, pony poop bingo, and bobbing for apples. There will also be bbq plates for sale.
