“It’s what you can do that counts” is now our life motto too! Meet my lovely daughter Elle.

By Angela Dimitrijevic

Elle is 10 years old and has level 2 cerebral palsy that predominantly affects her right side and lower legs. She has challenges around balance and coordination, gross and fine motor skills, and becomes easily fatigued due to the extra effort it takes her just to manage her daily life.

Elle has been coming to Park Lane RDA since 2023 when her physiotherapist suggested that horse riding might help to open her hips and improve her core strength. I did my research and got in touch with Nat and I can honestly say that this has been the best thing we ever did for Elle. Her physical endurance, all-round strength, flexibility, balance and coordination have all measurably improved but perhaps more importantly, so has her confidence and self-acceptance. Lexy has been the most incredible coach, sharing a sense of humour and the biggest soft spot for Ali her wonderful support dog.

Park Lane and all the staff and volunteers there have always made her, and us, feel welcome. I have adopted their motto of “It’s what you can do that counts” as a motto for life!

Elle feels seen and able to be herself and there is nothing better than that.

Over the last few years Elle has made great friends; furry and human, but her first horsey-love was Trigger who is now enjoying a well-deserved retirement. She is fond of all the horses at Park Lane and experienced her first competition in 2024 at the RDA Regionals with Reggie. Naturally competitive, Elle loved this experience. They achieved First Place but just lost out on points so didn’t qualify for the Nationals. This competition gave Elle an opportunity to bond with other members of Park Lane and Philippa really took her under her wing and encouraged Elle to join Pony Club and start collecting her badges. Even though she wasn’t taking part in the 2024 Nationals, Elle was keen to support her team so our family travelled to Gloucestershire to cheer everyone on and enjoy the atmosphere.

In 2025 Dougie and Elle made a great partnership at Regionals coming First Place in her category and securing their spot at her first National competition. The hot weather really put the pressure on but Dougie and Elle did brilliantly coming 6th place overall! Another great weekend for the whole family – and definitely a proud Mum moment.

Elle has found her community here with a love of animals and riding that is the highlight of her week and we are all truly grateful. Thank you Park Lane Stables RDA.

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