This page has been set up in memory of the late Jen Thomas, who sadly passed away after a long term illness on 25th January 2015 at the age of 72.

She was a stalwart of the Isle of Wight community and was involved in many local organisations, however, she was most well known for her affiliation and involvement with the Riding for the Disabled Association. For many years, Jen dedicated her life to supporting and running her own RDA Group at her riding school in Gurnard, greatly enriching the lives of all those she came into contact with. She taught people not only how to ride, but also instilled the importance of respect, manners and good work ethic within a fun and encouraging environment. Her organisation of countless gymkhanas and fun days helped break down the barriers between able bodied and disabled people - bringing them together to work as a team, all with just the assistance of her beloved ponies and a few fellow volunteers. Although Jen had to give up the riding school and her involvement with the RDA a few years ago due to ill health, she will always be remembered for the fantastic work she did - helping countless adults and children throughout the years. Without donations and local volunteers, such as Jen, the work that this charity does would not be possible.

Recent research has shown that RDA riders experience significant positive change in their capacities for communication, confidence, enjoyment, relating, physical improvement and learning horsemanship. 80% of schoolchildren who rode with RDA for a term experienced physical improvement. The greatest improvements were identified in confidence and enjoyment with 90% of riders demonstrating positive change in these areas. 82% of riders demonstrated improved communication and 70% improved their ability to build relationships.

It is my sincere hope that through this fund, many more disabled adults and children will benefit from the work of volunteer RDA Groups, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.



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