Mercedes' Road to RDA Nationals
Donation protected
Mercedes was born with Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy and Autism. The doctors said she would never walk or talk. However, through her sheer tenacity of spirit and her fierce determination, Mercedes has achieved more that anyone thought possible.
Mercedes began riding at the age of 3 at the recommendation of her physiotherapist. The movement of the horse activated muscles and movement that Mercedes' body could not trigger by itself. It has been a remarkable journey with miracles occurring physically, intellectually and emotionally. She walks, talks, interacts and excels at everything she attempts.
Mercedes attended the Riding for the Disabled Association National Dressage Competition two years ago and won her class. It was a dream come true for her and the beginning of a journey towards Para Equestrian competition. Mercedes has since been classified for Para Equestrian and trains daily to achieve her goal of competing Nationally and Internationally with with Paralympics in her sights.
Mercedes was chosen to represent Western Australia at the Nationals again in October this year and she is very excited to have this opportunity.
Coming from a single parent family, and requiring full time care, it is difficult to provide enough funds to support Mercedes' needs while she travels to Melbourne to attend the Nationals. Her wheelchair alone requires the entire boot of a large car to transport and due to her toileting needs, requires a caravan with a shower and toilet for the duration of the event.
There are also significant fees associated with pre-event clinics for horse selection and the hire and care of her horse while at the event including rental of stables, feed and vet care.
Mercedes is thrilled to represent her State and looks forward to making everyone proud of her.
She is an eager ambassador for people living with disabilities and her sport and is very happy to speak at events and meetings to raise awareness.
Thank you for your kind and generous support.
Mercedes began riding at the age of 3 at the recommendation of her physiotherapist. The movement of the horse activated muscles and movement that Mercedes' body could not trigger by itself. It has been a remarkable journey with miracles occurring physically, intellectually and emotionally. She walks, talks, interacts and excels at everything she attempts.
Mercedes attended the Riding for the Disabled Association National Dressage Competition two years ago and won her class. It was a dream come true for her and the beginning of a journey towards Para Equestrian competition. Mercedes has since been classified for Para Equestrian and trains daily to achieve her goal of competing Nationally and Internationally with with Paralympics in her sights.
Mercedes was chosen to represent Western Australia at the Nationals again in October this year and she is very excited to have this opportunity.
Coming from a single parent family, and requiring full time care, it is difficult to provide enough funds to support Mercedes' needs while she travels to Melbourne to attend the Nationals. Her wheelchair alone requires the entire boot of a large car to transport and due to her toileting needs, requires a caravan with a shower and toilet for the duration of the event.
There are also significant fees associated with pre-event clinics for horse selection and the hire and care of her horse while at the event including rental of stables, feed and vet care.
Mercedes is thrilled to represent her State and looks forward to making everyone proud of her.
She is an eager ambassador for people living with disabilities and her sport and is very happy to speak at events and meetings to raise awareness.
Thank you for your kind and generous support.
Organizer
Vanessa Portaro
Organizer
Balga WA
