Para-Equestrian Rider Overcomes Challenges

Kim Decker was just weeks away from her high school graduation when a car accident left her with a traumatic brain injury. She would be in a coma for four months.  

When she awoke, she could neither walk nor talk.

“It was like 18 years of my life had been totally erased,” Decker said.

During a visit home from her rehabilitation facility, her father took her to the barn where she first took horse-riding lessons. She had been a competitive rider for seven years before the accident.  

“People at the barn told my parents that they should sell my mare when I was in a coma,” Decker said. “They said that the mare would not remember me and that I would not be able to ride again.”

They were wrong. Twenty five years later, Decker, now 42, lives independently and is a world-class athlete.

In 2010, Decker was selected to be a member of the USA Para-Dressage Team in the Alltech World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky. She placed 11th in the world among other disabled athletes.  

Decker, of Centreville, told her story to about 15 riders and volunteers from the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program on Sunday. The Clifton-based program offers riding lessons to persons with disabilities and special needs.

“It was very inspirational to hear her speak,” said Blythe Champion, 23. Champion began riding at NVTRP about 10 years ago. She now rides about once a week at the center and hopes to participate in more competitions.

“There are not a lot of options for riders with disabilities,” said Kelsey Gallagher, an instructor at NVTRP.

Issues such as cost can prevent many riders from participating in shows regularly. The Decker family is quick to point out that finding sponsorship is difficult and that preparation for each show can cost thousands.

“It has taken us 25 years to get here,” said Kim’s mother, Donna Decker. “We’ve evolved.”

Fear of injury is another factor that can keep some riders from the competition.

“People told her that she [Kim] can’t trot, but she’s a rider,” said Kim’s father, Paul Decker.

Initially, three people assisted Kim Decker in riding, one person led the horse and two others held her in the saddle. Now bands help keep her secure in shows.

Her next goal is the Paralympics. She trains at least three times a week.

“You just have to keep positive,” Decker said. “I keep trying and never say  ‘Can’t.’”