A resident at Kiwi House Care Home in Derby, 82-year-old Barbara set off to fulfil her wish to ride a horse for the very first time. This unforgettable experience, made possible by the care homes’ “Make a Wish” program, is proof that it’s never too late to saddle up and chase your dreams!
Barbara has been counting down the days all week, eagerly anticipating her horseback adventure. When asked if she had ever ridden a horse before, she chuckled and said “the closest I’ve come was riding a donkey on Skegness beach.”
But if you know Barbara, you know she’s not one to back down from a challenge—after all, this is the same woman who celebrated her 70th birthday with a parachute jump! Now, at 82, Barbara decided it was time to add horseback riding to her list of adventures.
On the big day, Barbara arrived at the stables with her signature enthusiasm, ready to take on the challenge. Although she admitted to feeling a few nerves, it didn’t take long for her to find her groove. Mounted on a beautiful horse named Hilary, Barbara trotted around the paddock with the biggest smile on her face, cheered on by friends who wouldn’t have missed this moment for the world. “I was nervous at first, not knowing what to expect,” Barbara confessed, “but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!”
Barbara was absolutely thrilled to have her friends there to share the moment, and she can’t wait to show off the photos to her son and daughter. As for what’s next on her bucket list? Barbara laughed and said, “I’m going to have a nice hot shower this evening and then think about what my next adventure might be.”
“At Kiwi House Care Home, we believe life should be filled with fun and excitement, no matter your age. Barbara’s incredible spirit and zest for life are exactly what we celebrate every day. We’re over the moon to have made her horseback riding dream come true!” said Home Manager, Jeanette Heath.