Thank You Dr. Laurie Johnson

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Wednesday, 10 July 2019 20:19

Written by McKeever's First Ride

It is with utmost sadness; we share with you that our Co-Founder, Dr. Laurie Johnson, died suddenly on June 30th from complications from an illness.

Click here to learn how to reach out to the family. 

Read MFR's tribute to Laurie below.

Laurie gave herself passionately to McKeever's First Ride — believing everyone can be better than they ever imagined  — working with her whole heart and soul to help them get there! She encouraged MFR participants, volunteers, families, and friends, saying, "Today is your day to shine!".

Laurie served in multiple ways at McKeever's First Ride, but she was most joyous supporting the teenagers. She connected to both teen amputees and MFR teen volunteers on many levels — often listening to their stories and guiding them in the way only Laurie could — to seek new ways to handle life and relationships. She also instigated a mission for the teens to pack care boxes for the deployed military troops with goodies she got from all over Georgia.

Laurie loved unconditionally and fought fearlessly for justice and truth. She lived to sacrificially minister to others through her Skills for Living Institute, where she was a life coach, counselor, and spiritual mentor. In addition to her radio show, she also used social media to befriend thousands of people in America, and all over the world, sharing in their victories, their sorrows, and struggles. 

Laurie never wanted the limelight. She was an honorable servant, always giving credit and glory to God for any ideas, thoughts, and fruitful actions inside McKeever's First Ride and through her books, coaching, training, retreats, and conferences.

She was, indeed God's angel on earth, and we celebrate her life!

Her legacy lives on from her lifelong model to those close with her, the people who now thrive from her teaching, and the multitude of those who loved her dearly. We might be feeling a bright light has been extinguished, but Laurie is still telling us to light our own candles and continue the mission she began; helping others overcome life challenges and developing a relationship with our loving Creator.

Laurie's books are for children, teens, and adults where she gives both practical advice and shares inspirational stories of living well and doing good. Visit this page on McKeever's First Ride to explore her books, and how to buy them. You can also read her words on our blog and Facebook page.

Her voice also continues to be heard online and through her weekly radio show (using the past recording from the preceding years) Saturday mornings on WLAQ in Rome, Georgia.

The pain of losing her has been devastating to those who love her  — especially her husband Dan Johnson and their four children; Hiran, O'Keefe, Abraham, and Mamie.

While she has passed on, we can still hear her lovely voice directing us to go out and minister to others  — It's the best way to heal from this temporary separation and make a difference in those who still need it. 

May God bless Laurie and all of you!!!

From Co-Founder & Visionary Deenie McKeever — and her technical right-hand, Jason Scott Montoya

The Little Girl With A Big Struggle

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Category: Blog

Created: Tuesday, 08 November 2016 21:50

Written by Jessica Grillo

Being diagnosed with a medical condition is a scary thing for anyone, but at the age of thirteen, it can be terrifying.  The diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis come with its own method for things to be done and its own obstacles. For me, there were three parts; the diagnosis, the treatment and the opportunities.

When I first found out I had scoliosis I was in the seventh grade and my middle school did screenings on every student to make sure they were growing appropriately. When they got to me and checked my back the nurse did not say anything, I was just given a piece of paper. It said that I should go get my back looked at. My first check was at the beginning of seventh grade, about a month after I got checked at school. The orthopedist confirmed that I had scoliosis, but told my mother and I that it was not bad enough to do anything yet. I went back to the doctor every three months to get x-rays of my back to see if I was still growing.  As long as I continued to grow my back continued to get worse. In the summer before my eighth grade year, my degree of scoliosis had worsened and I was told that I would need to wear a back brace. This was terrifying because we were told that if the brace did not work then I would need to have surgery. I was fitted for the back brace about a month later.  I remember having to lie down on a hard peg board with multiple holes and having pegs placed extremely close to my sides.  The entire process was terribly uncomfortable.  Measurements were taken and sent off to have the brace made.  The hardest part of this was learning how to put it on and how it should feel.  That way if it did not feel like it did when the doctor put it on then I knew that it was not on correctly.  The doctor who fitted me for the brace also gave me special shirts to wear under the brace so there would not be any wrinkles which would have made it even more uncomfortable than it already was.  Unfortunately, the shirts were not a material that was cool; they were very thick and made me sweat a lot. The one good thing about the brace was when I got to decide the design.  I chose zebra.

The first couple of nights in the back brace were miserable.  Since I only had to wear it at night I didn’t have much time to get used to it before I tried to sleep.  I remember being in constant pain throughout the night.  I woke up two or three times crying because it hurt my side.  My mom put pillows under me so that it took away some of the pressure off my back.  The back brace made it extremely difficult to move around and get up.  Once I had it on and lay down in bed there was no possible way I could get up until morning when I took if off while still in bed or called my mom for help if it was the middle of the night.  I was not allowed to go even one night without it because the doctors and my mom feared that one night would lead to two nights and so on and so on.  When my family and I went out of town I had to wear it.  A few days after I got the brace, my family and I had to travel to Myrtle Beach for my brother’s baseball tournament.  Up until that night, I had been unable to sleep through the night so my mom and I were very nervous about how this trip would go. It turned out the first night we were out of town was the first night I was able to sleep through the night.  I was probably so exhausted from the previous nights and the traveling that even though I was still in pain I was able to deal with it.  From that point on, I had no major problems sleeping in the brace.  I was unable to go on my 8th grade trip to Washington D.C. because I would have to bring my back brace and find a way to wear it every night.  That was going to be difficult because we were going to have to sleep on the bus for two nights which meant that I would be out of my brace and that could not happen.  Throughout the year, I returned to the doctor every three months for x-rays.  The doctor was waiting for my growing to stop.  Luckily for me, I am only 5 feet tall and after the year, I was cleared of wearing the brace.

Most people would think that wearing a back brace is the worst thing that can happen to a person.  It was not the worst; it gave me some amazing opportunities.  I began participating in Mckeever’s First Ride.  Mckeever’s is a program where kids with any type of disability are able to participate in activities that they normally would not be able to do by themselves.  Even though my disability was not noticeable and I was still able to do everything I could have ever wanted to do, I decided to go to see what it was like.  After one year of participating, I became a volunteer in the teen section.  I had the opportunity to meet some amazing people that year and I decided I wanted to go back the next year, but this time it was not just going to be as a volunteer, it was going to be as the teen ambassador. This was the opportunity of a lifetime. I got to meet some amazing kids who had disorders that were far worse than mine, but they still had smiles on their faces.  Mckeever’s allowed me to help children that were living with disabilities worse than mine.  Yet these children looked at me as their role model.  I met some wounded warriors who lost both of their legs in wars and I said to them that they were the real heroes, but they kept telling me that I was the hero because I gave up time I could have been doing regular teenage girl things to come up here and help other kids who probably do not have many people to talk to.  Parents came and told me how much they appreciated that their child had someone to talk to that was around their age and that was able to relate to what they were feeling.  I understood how the children felt when they said that they did not feel like anyone understood and that they did not feel comfortable talking to anyone about what was going on.  I understood that because I felt the same way when I first started wearing my back brace.  If I never had to wear the back brace I would never have realized that I wanted to help people and I would never have decided to go into nursing.

I thought that getting diagnosed with scoliosis was the worst thing ever.  It was the most challenging obstacle I have ever had to face, but it made me who I am today and opened up opportunities for my future.  I could never have predicted that five years ago.

- Jessica Grillo

Pictures & Videos From Atlanta 2016 Are Online!

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Friday, 20 May 2016 17:08

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Have You Seen This Inspiring Doritos Commercial By The Adaptive Training Foundation?

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Category: Blog

Created: Wednesday, 30 March 2016 17:35

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Dear Military and Veterans...

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Friday, 28 August 2015 14:31

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Dear Military and Veterans,

I realize that 99% of you hate to be hailed a hero. I realize that 80% of you don't really care what civilians have to say about that. I don't blame you. I also realize you don't have time to read blogs. So, I'll be short.

We think of you as heroes, because we can't imagine having the guts and heart to go through boot camp and then don a uniform and go to scary places to protect people you don't even know. Many of whom will shoot at you. Many of whom will insult you. Few of whom will have a clue why you're there. They have been brainwashed to believe that America is evil.

We think of you as heroes, because most of us can't imagine leaving our family and friends to go do what we back home lack the courage or constitution to do.

Sure, you say you do it because it is your profession. It is your way to get college funds. It's in your blood, you come from military stock. But, there was another path you could have taken. In our book, that makes you a hero.

I get it. You say that the heroes are the ones who are still over there. Or, that heroes are the ones who came back in a flag draped coffin. How right you are. God bless every one of them.

But, God bless you, too. Just because it was in the cards for you to get back here, doesn't mean you're not made of the same meddle. Just because you weren't lost in the same crossfire, doesn’t mean you have less virtue. Maybe you got to come back to tell their story. Maybe you got to come back to be there for his family, or her family. Maybe you got to come back because you need to make a mark on this planet, despite unsteady steps resulting from injury or TBI or PTS. Your survival matters to us.

You can't bring your buddies back and you can't make their sacrifice worth it.

Whether you fought in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, or are currently deployed or in the Reserves, I acknowledge that nothing gained politically is worth one ounce of your buddy's blood, much less his full measure.

I can't speak as a military person or as a fully informed civilian. But, I can speak as a human.

So, I'll tell you…there is a massive, unseen population of people that DO consider you a hero. When we see your ball cap, or car decal, or license plate, or haircut we say a prayer for you. For those of you still Active, believe me, we sigh in relief when we see you around town or at the airport, and we say a prayer for your safety.

McKeever's First Ride was founded by the daughter of a decorated WWII Colonel and the daughter of a decorated WWII Field Surgeon, because we were raised in the shadow of men who knew war and its scars. Dan McKeever went on to advance prosthetics to replace limbs lost in combat. Dr. Davis went on to study how to treat battle fatigue, the first name of PTSD. Both, made it their business to "bring the guys back home" to a place that felt safe. Because getting back to U.S. soil isn't the same thing. That's what we've learned, from warriors who have schooled us about real life. That's why we make sure that Military who come to McKeever's First Ride have a military buddy to greet them. That greeting is not about a handshake. It is about brotherhood and sisterhood.

On our website, we list Resources for Military/Families. We share photos of smiles, because some smiles are a long, long time coming. We provide a place of peace and sensitivity to heroes who don't want to be called heroes. We want to hear your stories. We want to learn what you have to teach us. If you want us to, we'll find a way to pass along your wisdom. We are here for the annual event. But, we are also here day in and day out.

As for the day we set aside for you… we want you to connect with a creature who "gets it" better than most people who will cross your path. That creature-- the horse--is willing to hear what other people won't listen to. That horse won't ask stupid questions or say dumb things. It won't judge, scrutinize, or pity you. Instead, it will lend you massive strength. It'll remind you that there's a mighty person inside you. It will demonstrate that power is greater when it's channeled. And that trust deserves to be earned. And that being broken is not the same as broken down. It just means a work in progress.

You may have to forgive us for seeing you as a hero. Chances are, the horses share our opinion, but they'll focus on giving and being whatever you need. We'll focus on offering you a really good place to experience four legged battle buddies, and a year-round McKeever's First Ride Family that cares about you. We'll hook you up with resources if you want. We'll give you space if you prefer that. It's all good.

Some of you have less limbs than the rest of us. Some of you use a prosthetic or cane. Some of you wheel it. Some of you have invisible injuries. We do, too. In our minds, you walk taller than any of us.

We acknowledge that we are indebted to you for all that our freedom has cost you. For all that answering this nation's call, has cost you and your buddies and families. We're here to show our gratitude, in whatever way we can. Please join the brothers and sisters in arms, who have found McKeever's First Ride Family a worthwhile circle to join. Your being among us, will make the circle better. No strings attached.

Thanks for reading this.

We care.

Dr. Laurie Johnson and Deenie McKeever, Founders

Atlanta 2015 Event Photos Are Online!

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Wednesday, 06 May 2015 15:34

Written by McKeever's First Ride

April 18 2015 - WLAQ Radio Show: Skills For Living Talks About MFR 2015

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Monday, 27 April 2015 15:12

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Listen in on WLAQ TalkRadio Skills For Living with Dr. Laurie Johnson where she discusses teenage pressures and McKeever's First Ride 2015 April 18, 2015. This show was pre-recorded since McKeever's First Ride 2015 was on April 18, 2015.

See Event Photos & Thank You Volunteers!

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Category: Team Updates

Created: Monday, 27 April 2015 14:48

Written by McKeever's First Ride

A Message to the World's Best Volunteers!

It is natural to start off a letter with "Dear," but on this occasion, we're inclined to start off this Thank-you message with "Dearest!" Y'all are undoubtedly the dearest, most dedicated,most admirable and generous volunteers that ever assembled for any event. Deenie can tell you--she has been at the highest helm of Volunteer Training for the Olympics, for ALTA, for Wesleyan School missions, for Flying Doctors, etc., but no other group she has worked with, have given so much heart and soul to a mission!

I hope many of y'all felt as Deenie and I did, that Saturday's McKeever's First Ride Atlanta 2015 event not only blessed dozens of participants, it resulted in fueling and connecting our volunteer team and our Military guests, as much as it fueled and connected youth and adult participants!

There was such a sense of peace and camaraderie and unified compassion that enveloped that arena. Did you feel it? We hope you did, and that it followed you home. Even though we could have accommodated many more participants ( and hope to next year, with your help) the day seemed to start full and end full. Did you notice that?

Although Deenie always needs to be six places in one time during the event, (and somehow manages that!) I  get to quietly circulate and observe the goings on at different stations. While I saw a capacity for many more participants, I can tell you that I witnessed amazing things happen between volunteers and participants, between participants, and especially between volunteers!

I was struck by the realization that strengthening our volunteer network, insures an infrastructure that will be poised to facilitate many more McKeever's First Rides to come! It felt awesome to hear returning volunteers say that they look forward to McKeever's every year, and to hear first time volunteers eagerly  promise that they'd return.

Getting the word out to amputees and O&P clients, may never be easy, thanks to HIPPA regulations and the fact that, sadly, many folks with limb differences are disconnected from any support network. We won't let those glitches stop us! The fact that differently abled folks lack a stronger Atlanta network, just fuels our drive to provide that! Because, as Saturday proved--there is nothing in place that adequately channels youth and adult amputees toward local events or resources. That is exactly why Deenie and I are so adamant about cultivating a network system through our website and our social media campaign.

We were thrilled to hear Reggie Showers urge prosthetic clients to "Show your mettle" in order to normalize limb differences. We want his and Dale Beatty's messages to be heard in our Atlanta community and far beyond , which is exactly  why they will be posted on our website at www.mckeeversfirstride.com!  Together, we CAN create a regional go-to network for youth and adults to connect and adventure together!

The other big kick I got out of Saturday--was the initiative of many volunteers to share ideas about how to expand McKeever's First Ride enrichments! Just two that I'll mention, include music therapy and mighty big horses! We will certainly look forward to having Shepherd Swords back when Dennis Aspy's off the circuit preparing for Paralympic possibilities! Deenie and I will treasure ANY ideas you have, for enriching McKeever's First Ride and for reaching our elusive differently abled youth and adults! Debriefing with our Team Leaders to learn how to enrich our event is a top priority for Deenie and me. Feel free to shoot us your ideas or inspiration at Deenie's email, deeniemckeever@gmail.com or to me at drmamaphd@gmail.com.

I will leave it to Event Planner Extraordinaire, and Visionary, Deenie McKeever, to properly thank Team Leaders and Sponsors in a multitude of channels. I don't want to risk forgetting anyone!

In the meantime, we will thank YOU--whoever you are--who read a zillion emails and instructions, who prepped and promoted on behalf of MFR, and who came early and stayed late, to make Saturday's event amazing. Thanks for all your initiative, talents, patience, and availability. You touched lives.

And just in case you are one of the folks who manned a station that got low traffic, or ended up doing a job you didn't anticipate, please realize this--you modeled something for us, that endears us to the Military that we sought to honor! You were there, at your post, on ready and well prepared. Next year, we hope to have the numbers to keep you busy.

In the meantime, please consider this powerful truth.  Folks in our society strive to be #1. But our volunteer team clearly demonstrated the capacity to seek to be second, when it comes to service beyond self. You faithfully followed the Volunteers' Creed, "I am second. I am not first. Life is not about my comfort or convenience. It is about my service and my availability. It is about my being at my post, ready for those who will or might need me. The reward of serving, is not in the number of people I counted, but in the number of people who could count on me.”

You are the lamplighter at that post, bathing light on those who notice it or not. You didn't need more people to pause at your table, although you hoped they would, so they would be blessed by the resource you extended. You didn't need anyone to tell you that your sacrifice to be there, mattered. You are of the ilk of our noble American serviceman and servicewoman. Some of you volunteers are actually Military! Thank-you for showing us how to serve under ANY conditions.  Thank-you.

In closing, look for a proper Thank-you from Deenie! Look for follow ups in emails, and on our (that means YOU, too!) website and Facebook page (McKeever's First Ride, community) and TEEN McKeever's Facebook group, and Twitter (McKeeversFirst and Dr. Laurie Johnson and OPAF.)

Volunteers and Military/Families, we THANK-YOU! We are so glad YOU are a part of the McKeever's First Family! We salute Dale Beatty (www.phhusa.org) and Reggie Showers for their awesome presentations and presence. Be sure to follow up on their ongoing activities! We also thank Rev. Miguel for his prayer and blessing on the day, and acknowledge his military service, and that of his children, to this great nation.

We especially salute and thank Robin Burton, Executive Director at OPAF  for her untiring leadership, expertise  and vision. She is a swell boss lady and a treasured soul sister! Thanks to her efforts, we have Sponsors to thank, including: ABC, Endolite, SPS, Hanger Clinic, SureStep, College Park Industries, and CHOA.

We salute Ed and Elizabeth Dabney, and Dabney Gentle Horsemanship for providing stellar horses and equestrian expertise (and for showcasing the Horses of Sleepy Hollow!) We thank Team Leaders, Kathy Darnell …Riding Area , Dixie Cowles….Grooming/Horse Handling, Khadija M’Backe & Marcus Myrick….Military Table Hosts,  Jeff Lisle…. First Aid,  Dee & Mark Simonton…Golf Cart Plus, Ben Glosson….Massage Therapy, Connie Timms-McCurry… MFR Network, Elizabeth Beeson & Christina Williams…..Ortho-Bionomy,  Mollie Montag…Adult & Kids Crafts, Sally Davis….Petting Zoo, Beth Pedaggi , Dianne & Doug Lane… Carriages & Animals for Petting Zoo,  Erik & Gabe Pearson……Publicity/Media/PR, Tony Thaxton & Julia Maloney….Photography, Mike Harsh, Richard & Abigail Boatwright…..Roping, Charlotte Trawick & Christi Guthrie…..Volunteer Food heroes, Lauren Levey…..Registration…., Stacy Edwards…..Special Equestrian mini horse Director, Melby Uye….Canine Assistants, Jennifer Lindskoog….Driving Magic, TEEN McKeever's Chairman, Mamie Johnson, and Set up Team led by Larry Kelley with Khadija M’Backe, Charlotte Trawick, Jan Culley, Vica Daniel.  We also thank our unseen, under-thanked Technological Wizard, Jason Scott Montoya, who was on call for a year, helping design and assemble a premier website and helping design and drive our massive email networking! Thank-you, Jason! Lastly, thanks to Belinda Beatty and Autumn Showers, for bringing your special radiance to McKeever's! Both of you ladies certainly know how to SHINE!

As we encouraged you on Saturday, please take in the amazing moment in time, that was called McKeever's First Ride 2015! Soak in the parts that you played, as someone who drank in Opening Ceremonies and poured out to others all day. And if you felt underutilized, may that just spur each one of us to ask, seek, and knock, during the next 12 months, to reach those folks whose lives can be enriched by McKeever's First Family and our events!  In the meantime--savor, rest, and breathe! We don't have to remind you to SHINE--that is what YOU do!

With gratitude and appreciation,

Laurie & Deenie

Skills For Living With Dr. Laurie Johnson Talk About McKeever's First Ride 2015

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Monday, 13 April 2015 20:30

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Listen in on WLAQ TalkRadio Skills For Living with Dr. Laurie Johnson where she discusses teenage pressures and McKeever's First Ride 2015.

Dynamic Duo will be part of 2015 McKeever’s First Ride

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Category: Press Releases

Created: Tuesday, 31 March 2015 18:42

Written by McKeever's First Ride

March 31, 2015 – A Dynamic Duo will be on hand for McKeever's First Ride, April 18, 2015. Dale Beatty, CNN Hero will be joined by "World's Fastest Amputee," Reggie Showers for amazing day at OPAF’s McKeever's First Ride.

What can possibly top a day spent with Dale Beatty, CNN Hero and Community Crusader, who co-founded Purple Heart Homes USA? Only this--the dynamic DUO of Dale Beatty AND Reggie Showers headlining McKeever's First Ride on April 18, 2015!

We are thrilled to announce the return of the "World's Fastest Amputee," Reggie Showers to McKeever's First Ride, an OPAF First Clinic for Adaptive riding! Former World Champion drag motorcyclist and current snowboarding competitor and trainer, Reggie will team up with Dale as motivational speakers and MFR heroes!

This will undoubtedly create more excitement and voltage than the Gwinnett Fairgrounds arena can handle! Both of these guys are beastly overcomers and crowd favorites! While Dale lost his legs in Military service to his country, and has gone on to help dignify and house all Veterans, Reggie lost his legs in an accident at 13, and can speak poignantly and powerfully to our younger guests.

We look for 2015 to be the year that has everything--a Military hero, a Pro athlete, plus the horse stars of the hit TV show, Sleepy Hollow! A day of fun, fellowship, and networking, and success is in the bag!

Register today, for this amazing cost-free event and souvenir T-shirt! This is a Rain or Shine event, but you'll want to wear layers in case it is chilly! To register, visit www.mckeeversfirstride.com/2015.

About OPAF: Serving as the philanthropic arm of the US orthotic and prosthetic community, the Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation (OPAF), develops, implements, partners and hosts adaptive recreational clinics for those with physical challenges. The First Clinics are recognized as leaders in adaptive recreation. Whether this is the first time a participant is trying an activity after illness, injury or episode or the first time they are ever trying, First Clinics offer top notch adaptive instruction specifically for them. Founded in 1995 to support the Paralympic Games in Atlanta, OPAF & The First Clinics have moved forward to offer introductory level adaptive recreation opportunities to everyone, not just the elite athlete. For more information on OPAF and The First Clinics, visit www.opafonline.org.

Spread The Word!

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Monday, 30 March 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Share McKeever's First Ride Atlanta 2015

Please consider helping us get the word out, that the company of horses can do a body good--and a heart good, and a soul good!  Horses provide us companionship, trust, and a feeling of freedom.

Word of mouth is the best way to spread good news. And McKeever's First Ride exists, to spread the good news that horses can richly bless our lives, and you don't have to own one to find this out!

There are barns all across the U.S. that make it possible for youth and adults with limb differences to push past perceived limits, to create a more hardy, happy life. There are also many barns who offer military service personnel the chance to work with horses and fellowship with other vets.

McKeever's First Ride events are meant to "show and tell" the good news about horses and their positive influence on children and adults.

There could be no better time to spread the word about McKeever's First Ride, than now, with social media!

Please take time to "Like" us on Facebook and if you are a teenager, join the gang on the TEEN McKeever's group on Facebook.

On these sites, you can share photographs and updates about your experience at McKeever's First Ride. Enjoy updates on our blog where we will keep you up to date with event news, media releases, videos, photographs, and tips from experts within the McKeever's First Ride family!

Share the word about McKeever's First Ride through Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter, so others might learn about the joy of horses, adaptive sports, and networking!

We are so excited to enhance the lives of Amputees, O&P clients, and the Military. If you have connections to Amputees and folks with mobility issues, please let them know of this event! 

And also, please help us spread the word that together, we can honor the brave men and women in uniform, who serve this great country.

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What's New At MFR Atlanta 2015?

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Wednesday, 25 March 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

THE HORSES OF SLEEPY HOLLOW   *   CANINE ASSISTANTS
ORTHO-BIONOMY   *   TEEN MCKEEVER FILLS CARE PACKAGES

Other great additions to 2015!  We will be adding another R&R station, Ortho-Bionomy,  which is a gentle yet highly effective form of therapeutic bodywork. It is used to relieve pain and to restore natural alignment and well being. It helps resolve chronic and acute injuries, stress and trauma, as well as problems associated with postural and structural imbalances. Using comfortable positions and gentle movements, Ortho-Bionomy triggers the body's own self-correcting reflexes. No forceful manipulations are used. Instead, using gentle positioning, Ortho-Bionomy employs the body's innate wisdom to find balance and health. This will be provided by local practitioner Elizabeth Beeson and her associates.

Also, we will welcome Jennifer Arnold of Canine Assistants. Jennifer will be bringing a service dog to the event, to acquaint visitors with the range of abilities companion dogs have, to enable people with limb loss,loss of vision, loss of hearing, PTS, diabetes, etc., to live a fuller life. Discover Jennifer's inspirational story at www.canineassistants.org.

Additionally, TEEN McKeever  youth, ages 12-20, will have the chance to make Care Packages to send to Military men and women, while at McKeever's First Ride, 2015. Check out pictures on our website to see this ongoing outreach!

Don't forget! The Horses of Sleepy Hollow (TV drama) will be at McKeever's First Ride! You've seen them on TV, and you might have ridden them before! Join us as Ed Dabney, (Gentle Horsemanship and 20th Century Fox's wrangler for the TV series) demonstrates how horses are trained for Hollywood moves! TV stars,  Horizon, Acolade, and Smoke are all eager to see you!

Enjoy all these additions, plus  treat yourself to a funnel cake, delicious fried pickles, or a corndog with homemade lemonade at the food truck! Wear layers of clothing and closed toe shoes, because it can get chilly at Gwinnett Fairgrounds arena! 

Register today and PLEASE---let the Military men and women in your life know they are invited to this special event!

Meet Our Special Guest Dale Beatty

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Friday, 20 March 2015 14:41

Written by McKeever's First Ride

McKeever's First Ride is thrilled to announce that the 2015 Special Guest for the Atlanta McKeever's First Ride event, will be CNN's 2013 Top 10 Hero and Community crusader,Dale Beatty. While serving in the Military, Dale lost both legs as a result of an IED explosion under his Humvee.

But Dale determined to wrangle a triumph out of a tragedy, and together with his Battle Buddy, John Gallina , they have succeeded! Together, they  co-founded "Purple Heart Homes, USA" for the purpose of helping disabled Veterans of all eras obtain suitable housing.

Often, this requires renovations to homes, to accommodate for wheelchair access or other challenges. In many other cases, Dale and John have rallied communities to build homes or acquire foreclosed homes  for Military/Families.

As Dale says, "We wouldn't leave someone behind on a battlefield. Why would we do it at home?" We are excited to welcome Dale Beatty to the 2015 McKeever's First Ride,OPAF First Clinic on April 18, 2015. Deenie  enjoyed the opportunity to visit Dale, while in Dallas at Pres. George W. Bush's 2015 Military Initiative Summit.

He is a dynamo! Learn more about this CNN Hero at www.purplehearthomesUSA.org!

Is Your Torch Lit?

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Sunday, 01 March 2015 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

Have you ever stopped to think that what you are doing this very minute, may lead you to your greatest moments in life? It is exciting to consider! For five years, Deenie McKeever commuted to Atlanta to serve as a key Volunteer Training manager for the Centennial Olympics. Many days, that meant wrestling with impossible schedules, diverse personalities, conflicting needs, and daunting tasks. It involved scouting out venues, calming newcomers, teaching soft skills and recruiting fantastic volunteers. Little did she know all that work would spark a passion and prepare her to launch the love of her life--McKeever's First Ride, OPAF's Adaptive Riding clinic!

We know that YOU are a person who deserves to find your passion in life, too. Why do we think you possess a special gift to share? Because being on our Special Contacts list means that you have come to our attention as someone well worth knowing! Either you are a person with an O& P challenge, or you care about someone who does. Either you are someone who has attended a McKeever's First Ride event, or we hope you will--maybe this year! If you have attended a McKeever's First Ride, you are either a participant or a volunteer. Either way, we appreciate what YOU can bring to a day of adaptive riding, roping, carriage driving, adventure, fellowship, and inspiration! The chance to do that is quickly approaching! April 18, 2015 will be our next OPAF clinic. We'd love to see you there!

Many of you have learned about Dan McKeever, "Our Inspiration." He is the O&P pioneer whose life is celebrated through OPAF and McKeever's First Ride. His daughter, Deenie McKeever converged three loves-- love of her father and his O&P vision, love of horses, and her love of America's veterans--in the founding of McKeever's First Ride. If you have attended a McKeever's First Ride clinic, or spent time on our website, you've become acquainted with Deenie's contagious enthusiasm, courage, and love of life. But, did you know that the 1996 Olympics groomed her to launch McKeever's First Ride with OPAF Executive Director, Robin Burton?

The picture above, wonderfully captures the tiny dynamo we know as Deenie McKeever. Notice that she is deep in thought. You can sense her mental gears are spinning with details and possibilities. Nestled within this petite powerhouse, is a huge heart intent on making a mark on this world, and Deenie has done that, most notably through her vision to create McKeever's First Ride.

The path to McKeever's was cobbled by several exciting, demanding ventures that Deenie pursued prior to 2006. But, foremost were her five years as Volunteer Trainer and Event Planner for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Deenie was named among the Top Eight 1996 Olympic Volunteers recognized for their service and dedication to the Centennial Olympics. These five years honed her ability to empower volunteers to see the big picture beyond seemingly small details. "I loved helping volunteers realize that being the face of the Olympics, and the voice of welcoming Americans, could be an honor and a delight. It would have been easy to get bogged down in tedious aspects of planning for the Olympics. But we made a point of reminding each other that our efforts could genuinely foster world peace. I witnessed the way that humble tasks could have a huge impact, when they were done with the right attitude." Deenie encouraged volunteers to see themselves as vital ambassadors whose knowledge and hospitality could favorably impact the world's view of the United States and her beloved Atlanta. She enjoyed expanding her circle of caring, ambitious friends, and networking with community leaders and media personalities.

Little did Deenie realize how much the lessons of the Centennial Olympics would eventually benefit a new undertaking--McKeever's First Ride. Just as the Olympics provide a bridge upon which differing nations can meet and mingle, McKeever's First Ride creates a bridge, upon which participants can mingle for fellowship, then cross over to a new frontier with horses and adaptive riding, roping and carriage activities. McKeever's volunteers receive advanced training, in order to provide services and support of the highest caliber. The day's event may involve menial tasks, but there are no minor players among the volunteer ranks! Planning for a McKeever's First Ride event involves months of work and loads of effort. But when you're sharing your passion--labor takes on a different light. It doesn't just glisten with sweat and tears. It glows with determination and vision. It SHINES with love!

In addition to serving as an Olympic manager, Deenie was honored to carry the Olympic Torch through her hometown. Do you know what is your torch to carry? Whoever you are, wherever you are, there is a corner of the world that needs brightening. Will you add your spark? We hope you will. Next time you catch yourself wondering what good will come from all the tasks and sacrifices YOU make, remind yourself not to expect good to come from it. Expect greatness to come from it! Then share your greatness with others. That, ladies and gentlemen, is how to SHINE!

WLAQ TalkRadio-Skills For Living: Dr. Laurie Johnson Discusses McKeever's First Ride

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Thursday, 12 February 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Listen in on WLAQ TalkRadio Skills For Living with Dr. Laurie Johnson where she discusses McKeever's First Ride.

Are You Ready To Ride?

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Thursday, 12 February 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

You Are Invited

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Sunday, 01 February 2015 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

It won't be long until another McKeever's First Ride welcomes youth and adults to a day of adaptive riding, carriage driving, roping, fencing, mini horse activities, and arts and crafts! We hope you have registered for our April 18, 2015 event at Gwinnett Fairgrounds, near Atlanta! If not, register now!

Over 2,500 youth and adults have been impacted by McKeever's First Ride, an OPAF clinic, since 2009! Folks have attended MFR events at Chastain Park and Gwinnett Fairgrounds, in Georgia. They have also attended MFR events in New York, and Iowa. They have even attended MFR events in Rome, Italy and Verona, Italy! The McKeever’s First Ride program was also broadcast from the Rome and Verona venues! If you want to see photos, click HERE!

What about you? Will this be your first McKeever's First Ride, or will you be returning to see old friends and to see what's new? Whether you are new or familiar to the "McKeever's First Ride family" we welcome you!

We get a kick out of hearing the different ways that people learn of the invitation to attend a McKeever's First Ride event. Many folks hear of it from friends who have attended one of the 12 events we've sponsored, or who have attended another OPAF First Clinic. Additionally, an invitation may come from a caring prosthetic technician at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, or a PT at The Shepherd Center. It may come through a Marines For Life fellow, or through an Amputee Coalition conference or the wonderful AC Facebook page! You might have learned about us through Atlanta Horses for Heroes or the Wounded Warriors program. Maybe you may have searched for "amputee resources" on the internet, or saw us mentioned on 11 Alive TV, in Soda Magazine, or in one of several newspapers. We've been blessed to spread news of McKeever's First Ride through many channels! And we are thrilled that an invitation to this adaptive riding event has reached YOU!

What can you expect at this year's McKeever's First Ride? Well, you can bet that Opening Ceremonies will offer our salute to the military and a celebration of life and liberty! You can expect to see Demo riders, ropers, and carriage drivers highlighting the expanse and excitement of what can be enjoyed by folks with mobility issues or limb differences! At McKeever's First Ride, we offer the nation's best team for assisting youth and adults to experience horseback riding, carriage riding, roping, and groundwork with horses, thanks to our highly trained volunteers and the availability of adaptive devices and ramps. Your registration will ensure that we'll be ready to respect your needs!

We are very pleased to announce that certified Massage Therapists from AMTA will be returning to offer therapeutic massage that is uniquely suited for individuals with limb differences. Similarly, we are happy to announce that Ortho-Bionomy therapists will also be donating their services for the benefit of participants. And once again, the Care Givers station will be stocked with brownies and lemonade to be enjoyed as caregivers swap practical ideas for self-care and stress reduction. For a description of all the stations, click here.

This year, when you're not riding, roping, driving a carriage, or taking a carriage ride, you can relax and enjoy live music, indulge in self-expression through adult or youth Arts & Crafts, watch the Shepherd Swords Fencing team perform, enjoy the mini horses, take part in team building activities, view various demonstrations, visit the expanded Petting zoo, fellowship with kindred spirits--both military and civilian, or enjoy a snack from the food truck. You'll even be able to meet the horses and handlers from 20th Century Fox's TV drama, Sleepy Hollow!

If you are attending or returning to McKeever's First Ride as a Volunteer, we'll be eager to welcome you with a huge "Thanks!" and lots of hugs. One of our favorite moments of McKeever's First ride, has become the "closing circle" where more than a hundred Volunteers celebrate all that happened, and all that came together, to create a day of adventure, fellowship, and discovery.

OPAF clinics are designed to showcase adaptive sports, but the fun doesn't stop there. When you exit McKeever's First Ride, you'll leave knowing that you are a part of a caring fellowship that is committed to year-round encouragement and empowerment, through the www.mckeeversfirstride.com website. We call this the "McKeever's First Ride Family!" We hope to see YOU in 2015! Please help us spread the word--and don't forget to Register!

WLAQ TalkRadio: Dr. Laurie Johnson Discusses American Sniper, PTSD, & McKeever's First Ride

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Friday, 23 January 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Listen in on WLAQ TalkRadio Skills For Living with Dr. Laurie Johnson where she discusses American Sniper, PTSD, & McKeever's First Ride.

We Want You, At McKeever's First Ride!

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Wednesday, 21 January 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

ABC returns as McKeever’s First Ride Sponsor for 2015

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Category: Press Releases

Created: Monday, 19 January 2015 20:53

Written by McKeever's First Ride

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Contact
Robin Burton, Executive Director
OPAF & The First Clinics
980-819-9404 phone
704-973-9456 fax
Robin@opafonline.org
opafonline.org

ABC is once again excited about our sponsorship of McKeever’s First Ride in Atlanta this spring. Dan McKeever, CP was the second president of ABC and honoring his legacy through this event is a most fitting way to recognize his contributions to the profession. We are also pleased to once again be an OPAF Silver Sponsor and to continue to support their important activities throughout the year. - Catherine A. Carter, ABC Executive Director.

ABC again returns as a Silver Sponsor for OPAF in 2015, making the continued growth and development of future First Clinics possible. “OPAF is very grateful to ABC for their ongoing financial support as one of our three founding sister organizations in the early 1990s. Our sponsors are our lifeblood and help us make sure that introductory level adaptive recreation opportunities are available at no cost to the population we serve”, said Robin Burton, OPAF Executive Director.

# # #

About OPAF: Serving as the philanthropic arm of the US orthotic and prosthetic community, the Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation (OPAF), develops, implements, partners and hosts adaptive recreational clinics for those with physical challenges. The First Clinics are recognized as leaders in adaptive recreation. Whether this is the first time a participant is trying an activity after illness, injury or episode or the first time they are ever trying, First Clinics offer top notch adaptive instruction specifically for them. Founded in 1995 to support the Paralympic Games in Atlanta, OPAF & The First Clinics have moved forward to offer introductory level adaptive recreation opportunities to everyone, not just the elite athlete. For more information on OPAF and The First Clinics, visit www.opafonline.org.

2015, Let it SHINE!

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Thursday, 01 January 2015 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

First, let us send you a virtual hug with a big "Happy New Year" greeting! It is a JOY to have you be a part of the McKeever's First Ride family. We hope you have already marked April 18, 2015 on your calendar! If you haven't already registered for the 2015 McKeever's First Ride event, make sure you do soon, so that we can have your Participant or Volunteer t-shirt ready for you! We can't wait to see you in just a few months! It will be a wonderful Saturday, 10-2pm, filled with adaptive horseback riding, adaptive carriage driving, roping, fencing, grooming, demonstrations, arts & crafts, teen activities, massage therapy, Veteran's support, and fellowship! We have some surprises that we think you'll like, too!

That's one thing about starting a New Year--it is always full of surprises. Some we can hope for, and some that will bring a blessing we never imagined would come our way. As we head into the New Year, we at McKeever's First Ride want to be intentional in the ways we cherish the gift of life and friendships. This is our list of New Year's Resolutions. Feel free to adopt them as your own! 

We resolve, in the year 2015 to...

1. Remember our loving Creator in everything we do or undertake. It is His love that fuels our hope, courage, determination, and joy---despite the obstacles we face. He gave us the gift of life, and we intend on living it in a way that brings Him and others, joy.
2. Remember, we are human and we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" as stated  in Psalm 139:14.  That means every one of us, without exception! Each of us is equipped with a unique spirit and vital role to play in this life. Some people may underestimate the  important role each  person  plays  in  the human family, but it is our goal to change that way of  thinking. We know that "disability" and adversity can  position folks to live extraordinary lives. Take Reggie Showers and Scott Rigsby, for example. Yes, they faced very difficult trauma, but they both chose to let God create something beautiful and powerful out of disaster, and He has! We launch into 2015 with confidence that there is a very special plan for every person--from the moment you enter this world, to the moment you  leave  it. And we are here to help you CARPE DIEM! You have a special destiny and  it matters!
3. Remember, as the McKeever's First Ride family--it is what is inside that counts, and that connecting with that inner self is always worth the effort! Many of us are used to putting on a game face, and covering up the hurt or struggle we feel inside. But, being "family" means that we care too much to ignore each other or let hardship go unnoticed! This year, we'll continue to reach out to one another, in order to celebrate the positives and to lessen the burden of tough times.
4. Remember all the people that have come before us or stood beside us, especially Veterans. Were it not for Veterans who have guarded our liberty and fought for democracy, we'd live in a very different world. McKeever's First Ride celebrates that, every day of the year. We salute the military and their families.
5. Remember, we only have one chance to make our lives count in such a way, that there is a legacy that outlives each one of us. We are committed to helping McKeever’s First Ride family members discover a Carpe diem approach to life, no matter what obstacles they face. Through love, friendship, horses, adventure, art, music, fellowship, patriotism, generosity, and service beyond self, we challenge folks to make a positive mark on this world.

Here's to making 2015 a wonderful year!

We're going to let it SHINE!

Happy New Year!

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Category: Holiday Cards

Created: Thursday, 01 January 2015 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Merry Christmas!

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Category: Holiday Cards

Created: Thursday, 25 December 2014 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Together We Shine

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Tuesday, 02 December 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

So far, in our SHINE Blog, I've invited you to discover WHO you are, Who you are NOT, and HOW to choose positive thoughts when negative ones try to invade your mind and steal your peace. We hope you consider yourself a vital link in our McKeever's First Ride family.

Together, we can shine!

Like separate coals that generate heat and light, when assembled, together, we can make each day SHINE with a Carpe Diem spirit. Is that because every day is bursting with sunshine and happiness? No, in fact, life for some of us is tough these days. The shorter, grey days can do a real number on our moods. I've teased friends that my S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder) has become W.A.E. (Weep at Everything!) Thankfully, some of these tears are over happy things and answered prayers. But, like you, some tears spill down my face, because answers to certain prayers appear derailed or doubtful. What do you do, at a time like that? I'll offer the tips that have helped me most. I hope they offer you some encouragement and practical suggestions whether you are looking after yourself, transitioning from deployment, or serving as a Caregiver to loved ones.

1.  Remember,  sometimes, the answer to your prayers, or to your heart's hunger, is to involve other people's help and know how.

Do certain people understand that you want or need their assistance? Do they know that you'd welcome it--rather than resent it? Maybe you can communicate this more directly. Let  specific folks know that you are seeking  support. Make sure they realize the role  they can play in your hopes coming true. Maybe you only know one small, first step toward your dream. That's okay! Take some time to figure out who might be a resource to you, then put on your "Cap of Courage" and ask for their input! Just in case someone has offered to assist you in the past, don't wait on them to remember!  Jog their memory or  ask again. It will likely bless that person as much as it blesses you!

2. Remember that sometimes a solution requires multiple things to converge and that takes time.

Consider an underground flower bulb. Above the surface, especially under snowfall, it can seem like NOTHING is happening. But it is! That bulb is where it needs to be, doing what it needs to do, to bloom come Spring! Are you where you need to be? If you feel isolated at home, you can still reach out and engage with folks through mail, phone calls. texts, social media, and email. It may seem awkward or cumbersome at first--but aren't most things? I'm glad I didn't let the awkward, cumbersome task of learning to ride a horse stop me from experiencing the pleasure of it, once I gained some confidence in the saddle. That process did include falling off from time to time. If you feel like life has bucked you out of the saddle--try to climb back on. ALL of us at McKeever's have experience with life's bumps and bruises! Who might you connect with from your home? If you are able to get out and about, look into some new places to enjoy beauty, a stroll, or some new faces. The newspaper is full of local organizations and community groups that would welcome you. Don't dwell on the effort and hassle to get there--think about what it would be like to leave the group laughing, knowing you have some more friends and have new activities to look forward to on your calendar.

3. Remember, that looking longingly at the horizon of your dream, can distract you from seeing and enjoying what is right here at your feet.

Remember, the people and pets you love, grow older every day. The seasons change. The possibilities of today, will fade. Try hard to drink deeply of the good things around you, each day before they slip away. This does not mean you ignore the hurt or difficult transition you face, it just means you don't let those challenges steal from you the subtle gifts and priceless people around you. Try to look at them with a heart of gratitude. Yes, it may be a broken heart. But your spirit is stronger than you think. If you are at a good place in life, look around for who may need your hand or your smile. If we huddle together during winter's grey days, we'll multiply our warmth and light.

Together, we can SHINE!

Protect Your Gas Tank!

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Monday, 01 December 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

So, what kind of thoughts do you want to be greeted by when you wake up in the morning? What kind of mood do you want to program for yourself? Dark and defeated, or upbeat with a side of humor? We at McKeever's First Ride are not asking you to be Pollyanna--we just want to help you SHINE in life!

If you're like most of us, you're bombarded with negative news and negative predictions. Plus, you've seen your fair share of  individuals and relationships break down or explode  on TV, in magazines, and in the news. Pull up the internet and you'll see stories that will make your hair stand on end, or pics from a celebrity's vacation that turn your skin green with envy. All this incoming data has the power to ruin your mood, if you are not very deliberate with your healthy self-talk.

Which brings me back to water in the gas tank. When you see a celebrity wading in money and luxury, and say to yourself, "I'll never have enough money to get ahead," you are pouring water into your own gas tank. When you see a celebrity couple split, and murmur, "Marriage never works out" you are pouring water into the tank. When you see someone scamming the system, and tell yourself "I am such a fool for doing the right thing," you are pouring water into the tank. When you brood over mistakes you've made, instead of sorting out the chance to make things right, you are pouring water into the tank. When you get down on yourself, and berate yourself for being a loser, a has-been, or a burden to others--you are pouring water into that tank. If you don't stop to say "TIME OUT!" and boldly examine the evidence and question your assumptions-- you'll be at risk of being swept away by shoddy, negative thinking.

Which is what we at McKeever's First Ride do NOT want! We don't want to see folks living a low-grade life of struggle, because they don't know to guard their hearts against discouragement, or envy, or manipulation. We want to encourage you to SHINE.

We truly believe that each of us can serve as a lighthouse to others. By day, we offer light and warmth from the unique position we fill. By night-- our light warns ships that they will collide with rocks and land if they approach, and we help sailors get their bearings in order to stay on course. We are not asking you to be more than you are. We are just encouraging you to see how much your life matters and that wherever you are, your life and light DO MATTER! Having scraped yourself on life's rocks--you can help others avoid them, or pick their way across life's rocky path. It may be new to you to realize how much your life matters. But it does!

Yet, think for a minute, what would happen if you, as captain of your lighthouse, smeared the glass windows with soot? Despite the excellent construction of the lighthouse, the light would not shine through the windows, as intended. Negative thinking and self-rejection can act like that soot--and make it difficult for us to shine, and difficult for others to see our true light.

It is a great thing to discover new ways to look at life and new ways to see ourselves. One little "Aha!" can put us on a better course in life. For me, and those of you who read this, you can bet I'll have a little observer on my shoulder who grabs my attention next time I am grumbling, complaining, or feeling inadequate and says "Don't put that water in the gas tank!" or "Don't smear that soot on those windows!"  It may seem at times that we only answer to ourselves, but the truth is--we have choices every day to impact other people in ways that uplift them, or in ways that cause their load to be that much heavier.

One of the best ways to launch a "seize the day" or Carpe Diem approach to life, is to start by unloading unnecessary weight in your mental backpack. For starters, let's join together, to guard our moods and emotions. Life is full of challenges. Let's make it a bit easier, by arresting and changing the automatic thoughts that can cause us to sink into envy, irritability, defeat, or malaise. "I can figure out my finances," "Marriage is hard but can be rewarding," "Integrity matters to me," and " I can't change history, but if I can repair some damage, I will," are alternative responses to those I mentioned earlier. Join us! Let's bridle our thoughts, in order to make this life the best "ride" imaginable! We don't have to wait on perfect conditions in order to be caring and confident. Let's set up an internal thermostat that helps us reset our outlook to "positive" and "resilient" so that we can seize each day! That way, should life or certain people--or, ourselves on a bad day--want to sneak water into our gas tank, we'll be wise enough to lock the lid.

Happy Veterans Day!

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Category: Holiday Cards

Created: Tuesday, 11 November 2014 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Don't Put Water in the Gas Tank!

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Saturday, 01 November 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

One thing that is memorable about the last two McKeever's First Rides at Gwinnett Fairgrounds, is that at both events,  the weather was freezing! It was so cold that participants and volunteers looked like Weebles waddling around the arena, because we'd all gone to our cars to put on every stitch of clothing we could find. If only we'd had a thermostat we could have set to "comfortable" instead of "super chilly!"

In  contrast, years ago we held a McKeever's First Ride at Chastain Horse Park, in June. Not just June--Georgia June. It was sweltering hot and muggy. Again, the thought of a magic thermostat to set the temperature to "comfortable" would have been appreciated!

Whether it is to warm up a chilly room, or cool down a hot office--most of us are very thankful for the invention of thermostats to make our lives a little easier. Imagine with me, if we could come up with a thermostat that helped reset our moods and emotions to "comfortable" when we are feeling uptight, anxious, or sad. Thankfully, this is within our reach. That is not to say that we can make sad things unsad, or difficult things easy. But, we can choose to deliberately manage our moods and thoughts through discipline and self-talk. If we don't, our moods can yank us on highs and lows that are miserable to endure. Often, we have no idea that "automatic thoughts" of a negative nature are bringing us down, because they can be so subtle and pervasive. If we take time to arrest negative thoughts, we can set our thermostat to "manageable" or "comfortable." If we don't bridle our negative thoughts, we can end up with health issues, moodiness, relationship friction, and stress--despite being loving, capable adults.

Let me offer you a picture of what I'm talking about. Imagine if someone told you to put a couple of cups of water into your gas tank every week. A crazy idea, I know, but stay with me. Before long, your car would be disabled. It wouldn't matter that the car was a good model or that the tank was filled with gas, or the tires were kick worthy, or you had a great set of rims. You would have a car, but you would not have transportation!

Humans operate a lot like this. We can have keen minds, caring hearts, common sense, and can be very resourceful. We can have good relationships, be creative problem solvers, and take pretty decent care of our bodies. However, if we put negative or inaccurate thoughts into our mental engine every week, before long, our life is going suffer for it.

Remember the adage, GIGO (Garbage in/Garbage out) that was a warning to early computer programmers? It was a snappy way to remember this: Input flawed data, get back flawed data. Input clean data, get back clean data. So, did you ever stop to realize that we actually program our brains on a daily basis?

We do! And if we recite and rehash negative thinking on a regular basis, negative thinking is going to abound, and it is going to darken our thoughts and the way we see the world. If we frequently voice dire and dark predictions, guess what is going to become automatic? Pessimistic thinking and a defeated outlook. If we surround ourselves with negative people, we can expect their negativity to impact us, much like water in the gas tank. What to do? Keep the lid locked! Fight negativity in yourself, and insulate yourself from other's negativity in every way you can! Need tips for guarding yourself from negativity? Check out the next SHINE blog,  "Protect Your Gas Tank" that follows.

The Horses Of Sleepy Hollow

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Wednesday, 15 October 2014 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

For the past three months our visionary, Deenie McKeever, equine lead, Ed Dabney, and his daughter Elizabeth Dabney  have been working with the 20th Century Fox TV production crew of Sleepy Hollow on Season 2, making history come alive!

Join us at our next McKeever's First Ride and ride the horses of Sleepy Hollow! Click here to register...

Ed Dabney, who worked as a wrangler and actor on at least ten movie sets, was hired by 20th Century Fox to offer his expertise as head Horse wrangler for Fox TV's popular televsion drama, Sleepy Hollow, now in its second season. Among the horse "stars" in the Sleepy Hollow series, are Deenie's horses, Horizon and Smoke and Elizabeth's horse, Accolade. For fans of McKeever's First Ride, who have attended in the past, it is very exciting to know you might have ridden one of these famous four legged stars!   

What did Deenie McKeever have to say about being on the Sleepy Hollow set during the scene in this picture?

“I was standing on the of the side of set watching my horse give his all in this scene with fire, smoke and a huge water stream all around him. Thanks to my friend and awesome horse trainer, Ed Dabney, for teaching partnership with horses that gives them the trust to know we will help them through tough and scary challenges to perform amazing feats!”

Join us at our next McKeever's First Ride and ride the horses of Sleepy Hollow! Click here to register...

Sleepy Hollow is on FOX, Mondays at 9/8c.

Behind The Scenes Sleepy Hollow Images

The following photos are on set and in training with the horses for Sleepy Hollow.

Behind The Scenes Sleepy Hollow Video

Join us at our next McKeever's First Ride and ride the horses of Sleepy Hollow! Click here to register...

Our Past Events

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Category: History Highlights

Created: Monday, 13 October 2014 19:13

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Find your picture among 14 Event galleries! Or, picture yourself at our next McKeever's First Ride! Check out event photos, videos, news, and more!

Atlanta 2014, Reggie Showers Inspired Us!

At our most recent, and largest event, Reggie Showers inspired us with his message about overcoming adversity... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Atlanta 2013, Barry Landry Encouraged Us!

In our 5th Atlanta event, Barry encouraged us to persevere in the wake of loss... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Rome 2012, Showcased On Class Horse TV!

Champion reigning horsewoman Brunella Rosetti and TV broadcasters welcomed McKeever's First Ride on our second trip to Europe... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Atlanta 2012 Iron Man Tri-Athlete, Scott Rigsby, Steals Hearts!

Iron Man with a heart of gold, double amputee Scott Rigsby, inspired the kids of CHOA and motivated adult participants to Carpe Diem! Click here to learn how this story played out... 

Verona 2011, Going International!

Going international was a dream come true for McKeever's First Ride. Check out the link to learn about our presentation at Fieracavalli Horse Fair... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Warwick 2011, Teens To The Rescue!

Read about what happened when teen volunteers cared enough to make this wonderful event happen... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Atlanta 2011, Making History On Horseback!

With extensive media coverage, McKeever's First Ride was thrust into the limelight. Click the link to see the news coverage... Click here for photos, videos and more... 

Warwick 2010, MFR Returns To New York!

Once was not enough! Thanks to multiple sponsors, McKeever's First Ride returned to Winslow Therapeutic Riding Center for a second year... Click here for photos, videos and more... 

Atlanta 2010, National Treasure, Molly The Pony Joins Us!

With Molly the Pony joining us, our second Atlanta event offered inspiration and education as Gentle Horseman Ed Dabney taught about the Spirit of the Horse... Click here for photos, videos and more... 

Waterloo 2010, McKeever's Expands To The Midwest!

"I hope that MFR helps others to understand that you can do anything you put your mind to…" Click to learn more about the lives transformed through MFR...

From Atlanta To New York, The MFR Vision Spreads in 2009

Thanks to John Vacca's generosity and Robin Burton's collaboration, McKeever's First Ride expanded to Warwick, NY... Click here for photos, videos and more...

Atlanta 2009, Our First Event!

McKeever's First Ride was launched in Atlanta, GA, at Chastain Horse Park. Click to learn about the little idea that grew into a big dream... Click to learn about the little idea tha grew into a big dream...

What's On Your Label?

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Wednesday, 01 October 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

As a psychologist, sometimes it is my job to tell people who they are...not! How in the world  can I be so sure about who a person is not, you might ask. Because I'm aware that people believe lies about themselves. It is sad, but true. Thankfully, it is reversable!

One of the biggest lies that we tell ourselves, is that we are the sum of our behaviors. The thing that makes that very unfortunate, is that many people tend to recall everything bad that they ever did, and give themselves little credit for all the things they did that were good or noble.

So why tell ourselves lies? Sometimes we do it in order to feed our egos and see ourselves in a glorious light. But, it is more common to tell ourselves lies that are belittling and demeaning. Why in the world would anyone do that?

Generally, because most of us have lived at some point, around others who pounced on us  when we exposed a weakness. Sometimes the pounce was motivated by a desire to love, protect, or redirect us. It was meant to school us about how to do or be better. Regrettably, sometimes, the pounce was less loving in nature, and served as a cue for someone to scold, shame, or berate us. Not fun. It was a center stage spotlight that beamed in on something we failed to do, something we should not have done, or something we should have done differently.

Needless to say, the thought of getting publically or privately schooled about our flaws leaves us in a quandary, because we will mess up in life. And the risk of getting grilled by someone, for failing at something, leaves most of us gun-shy about the possibility of being reprimanded. So--how best to beat a reprimander to the punch? We indict ourselves. We chastise or condemn our own flaws. We condemn ourselves for being "a burden," an "annoyance," a "lost cause," or a "failure."

While aspects of these descriptions may be partially true, these are NOT labels that anyone deserves! Someone can have diverse needs, but not be a burden. Someone can present challenges, but not be an annoyance. Someone can have a spotty past, but not be a lost cause. And if "failure" is assigned to everyone who has ever failed at anything, then we are ALL failures. I guess that also makes us all "attempters" who deserve some credit for taking on whatever challenge we "failed" at.

So, if you tell me you are a burden, I will answer that you may present more demands than some other people, but that does NOT make you a burden.

If you tell me you are an annoyance, I will answer that there may be petty habits you can adjust, or that there may be some major talks that need to take place, to resolve tension between you and your faultfinder.

If you tell me you are a lost cause, I will answer that there is no such thing. Take a look at how old people were, who invented or campaigned for great things, during the last hundred years! Perhaps, more accurately, you have yet to find out how to regulate yourself in order to achieve meaningful, personal goals. Maybe there's an addiction or pain that stands in your way as an obstacle. You are not the first to face obstacles or to attempt plans or programs that didn't work out. There are more to search out. After all, you stand at the point of more intel, more knowledge of what doesn't work for you, and more savvy about  where your good intentions tend to fall by the wayside. That positions you for greater success than ever before in your life! The race is not over for you!

If you tell me you are a failure, I will answer that there is no such thing. So your business failed. So your marriage failed. So you didn't go to college. So you have splintered relationships. The game is NOT over! Everyone around you, fails at stuff, every single day. Including big, sad stuff. Unless you want to get mileage from being thought of as a failure, (some folks do, but I seriously doubt that includes you) then determine to start using failure as a fantastic tool to help you figure out what does and does  not work in how you manage yourself, your thoughts, your moods,  your actions, your relationships, and your recruitment of helpful people and resources.

So, now you know why I can boldly tell people who they are not. It is because the labels they  assign themselves are not legit!

So, I remind folks, that even though certain descriptions or labels may appear true, or feel accurate,  when put to the test,  evidence often proves those assumptions to be questionable or downright  false!

In conclusion, you may know very well, who you are. You may even be someone who has gone through a life-changing event, and be figuring out who you are, now. Or, you may not have an easy answer to the question, "Who am I?" because you have been too busy with life to stop and ponder the question! Whichever spot you come from, we at McKeever's First Ride trust that you are going to make a good life for yourself, in new and dynamic ways, as new opportunities for self-care and self discovery unfold. That's why we are here!

I don't need psychic powers to know when people are mistaken in how they identify themselves. We can all fall under the spell of labels and identifiers, whether or not they fit. But, "failures," "lost causes," "burdens," and "annoyances" do NOT exist in the realm of reality! However, they DO exist in people's heads, where we absorb rules and roles and judge ourselves pretty harshly. The GOOD NEWS is, that even if you've assigned yourself these labels, you can remove them. They do NOT have to define or dictate who you CHOOSE to be, or how you CHOOSE to see yourself! The truth will set you free! Free yourself up to discover who you really are. We want you to SHINE!

Who Am I?

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Category: Shine (Insights by Dr. J)

Created: Monday, 01 September 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

If someone were to ask you to write 20 words to describe yourself, what would be on your  list?

For most of us,  relationships that we are in, define us. Son, daughter, mother, dad, brother, uncle, granddad, wife, husband, or single. Secondly, a job often defines us--coach, teacher, engineer, nurse, firefighter,  sales clerk, law enforcement, etc. Thirdly, we might mention our nationality. We might mention if we have served our country in the military, or if we belong to a certain faith or denomination. We might describe ourselves as fans of favorite sports teams, pro athletes, or other superstars. We may identify ourselves  by our passion for certain music, a certain TV show, book series, hobby, or political party.

This can be an interesting activity to do, that will help you see what your interests and priorities are, and how they may have shifted over time. You may realize that it has been quite a while since you took time to  enjoy a game day, listen to that music, sit in that familiar pew, or took time to garden or glance through picture albums.

The true beauty about who you are, is this--it is never a done deal. Who you are, is who you choose to be. Who do you choose to become? Someone known for your sense of humor? A faithful friend? A creative problem solver? A peacemaker? Someone quick to offer aid, or someone slow to anger? Any of these are admirable goals. At McKeever's, we want to celebrate your efforts to live a full life. Together, we can make strides to pursue a "Carpe Diem" lifestyle!

McKeever's First Ride is a community of people who are striving to make the best of all the opportunities they face. These may be opportunities to develop friendships and meaningful connections. They may be opportunities to try new things, or recover the joy of activities long neglected. We hope you'll look for ways to SHINE, as you go about the task of inventing and expressing yourself.

The great thing about life, is that it tucks gifts in unexpected places, and offers friends in unfamiliar faces. We hope you will share with us your ideas about how you are making the most of life! Don't forget, that you can find McKeever's folks on the McKeever's First Ride Facebook page, and at TEEN McKeever's Facebook group, and at Amputees Int': Amped, Braced and Active group on Facebook. Use Twitter @McKeeversFirst to keep in touch. We want to stay connected!

Here's to celebrating your efforts to SHINE!

McKeever's First Ride 2014 - Video Highlights

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Category: Event Updates

Created: Friday, 16 May 2014 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Thank you Amy Geist Franklin for the video. 

Thank You, To Our Wonderful Volunteers

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Category: Team Updates

Created: Monday, 12 May 2014 00:00

Written by Dr. Laurie Johnson, LPC

"Help one another; there's no time like the present and no present like the time" ~ James Durst

McKeever's First Ride is eager to thank ALL the volunteers who have helped make McKeever's First Rides a success--at Chastain Horse Park and Gwinnett Fairgrounds in Atlanta, in Warwick, New York and Waterloo, Iowa, and internationally, at Verona, Italy and Rome, Italy! Every moment of time that has been given by volunteers matters--whether it was serving as a side walker so an amputee could ride horseback, providing therapeutic massage to participants, spreading the word around your office, toting buckets and brushes, keeping the arena clean and safe, transporting horses, fitting folks with riding helmets, or offering a warm smile and a big welcome at registration.

The faces are too many to name, and the tasks are too many to list. But the impact each volunteer made, since 2009, ripples with love and goodwill and is worthy of our deepest appreciation!

Thank-you for your time, talent, and treasured friendship!

We love you, volunteers!

McKeever’s First Ride rides again

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Category: Press Releases

Created: Tuesday, 06 May 2014 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Contact
Robin Burton, Executive Director
OPAF & The First Clinics
980-819-9404 phone
704-973-9456 fax
Robin@opafonline.org
www.opafonline.org

May 6, 2014 – Charlotte, North Carolina – Under blue skies and with big smiles, McKeever’s First Ride held their sixth annual event at Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville, Georgia, just outside of Atlanta. The event, sponsored by ABC and Ottobock, honors the memory of Dan McKeever, CP 11 with therapeutic riding and equine activities for all ages. This year’s event, coordinated by Deenie McKeever, daughter of Dan and founder of the clinic and format, saw over 200 attendees enjoy a day of riding, roping, fencing, massage, arts and crafts, live music and more.

Our featured speaker for the event was Reggie Showers, himself a bilateral below knee amputee and member of the OPAF Board of Directors who spoke to the crowd on the importance of opportunities and possibilities and a positive attitude in all you do, no matter the situation. Everyone’s mental state directs their actions and these kinds of events are so important to keep you focused on what is important. Deenie McKeever also spoke on how much importance her dad put on being the best that you can be. Special recognition was given this year to our military and their service to our country. Many thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers, without whom this event would not be possible.

Equine activities included riding, grooming and groundwork, carriage driving, miniature horses, a petting zoo including Croche, the braying donkey, roping and arts and crafts. Special stations for therapeutic massage were available as well as a group for caregivers and teens. Representatives from Atlanta’s Horses for Heros program were also on hand to assist with the day’s activities. Healing of mind and spirit was the order of the day, as the ‘outside of a horse is good for the inside of a person’. McKeever’s First Ride offers that kind of healing and so much more. We are scheduled for April 18, 2015 in Atlanta and looking to finalize event details for a similar event in Austin, Texas as well.

# # #

About OPAF: Serving as the philanthropic arm of the US orthotic and prosthetic community, the Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation (OPAF), develops, implements, partners and hosts adaptive recreational clinics for those with physical challenges. The First Clinics are recognized as leaders in adaptive recreation. Whether this is the first time a participant is trying an activity after illness, injury or episode or the first time they are ever trying,
First Clinics offer top notch adaptive instruction specifically for them. Founded in 1995 to support the Paralympic Games in Atlanta, OPAF & The First Clinics have moved forward to offer introductory level adaptive recreation opportunities to everyone, not just the elite athlete. For more information on OPAF and The First Clinics, visit www.opafonline.org.

MFR Featured in the Gwinnett Daily Post

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Sunday, 22 April 2012 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

LAWRENCEVILLE -- When Memphis Lafferty arrived at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds on Saturday, he swore he would not ride a horse.

But a friend promised she would ride if he did, so the 6-year-old started up a ramp to ride "Pretty," a patient brown mare.

Memphis, though, wasn't convinced. He wanted his Dad by his side, and even after he made it atop the steed, he clutched onto the saddle horn.

Click here to read the entire article...

McKeever’s First Ride part of Verona Horse Fair

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Category: Press Releases

Created: Friday, 11 November 2011 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Contact
Robin Burton, Executive Director
OPAF & The First Clinics
319-235-4318 phone
319-235-4326 fax
rlb@opfund.org
www.opfund.org

November 9, 2011 – Verona, Italy – McKeever’s First Ride™, the therapeutic horsemanship program of OPAF & The First Clinics was recently a featured part of the 113th annual Verona Horse Fair also known as “Fiera Cavalli”. The event has been running continuously since 1898 and draws over 250,000 attendees to the four day festival that celebrates all things horse related. Deenie McKeever, the program founder of McKeever’s First Ride, along with international horse trainer and clinician, Ed Dabney, were on hand to introduce Italy to our program and to the benefits of equine therapies to anyone with a physical challenge.

Both Deenie and Ed were interviewed by the national Italian TV, Allitalia TV and gave overviews of what McKeever’s First Ride has accomplished in the United States. With their cowboy hats and Ed’s towering height of well over six feet tall, they were easy for the fair attendees to spot. Luigi Fedeli and Pierandrea Rebella, both amputees from Italy, were demonstration riders along with a 90 minute seminar with video from the recent clinics in Atlanta was presented by Ed and Deenie and Italian equine experts.
Multiple types of riding and costumes were present as well as carriage driving as part of the four day event, which ran from November 3-6. Franco Barbagallo served as their interpreter and event organizer in Italy.

The Atlanta McKeever’s First Ride 2012 will be an even bigger and better event than last year. It will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Atlanta, Georgia, hosted by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The full day event will include riding, grooming, groundwork, carriage riding, and live music from noted Nashville artist, Templeton Thompson, arts and crafts and so much more. For more information, visit the OPAF website at www.opfund.org or www.mckeeversfirstride.com or call Robin Burton, OPAF Executive Director at 319-235-4318 or rlb@opfund.org. Hope to see you at a First Clinic, down the road!

Featured On Soda Salon

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Thursday, 23 June 2011 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

I just had an opportunity to spend some time with a dear friend of Soda, Deenie McKeever.  My wife Tracey has been seeing Deenie as a client for about a year now, and we  all hit it off the day we met.  There are some people in this world that even when you meet them for the very first time, you know that they are a different breed of person.

You see, Deenie has an energy and spirit that is undeniable; she radiates the natural passion for life in everything she says and does.  Her love for horse riding has literally taken her around the world, and has allowed her to work with some truly fascinating people.  From the regular equestrian fan like you and I, to literal royalty, Deenie has shared her ability and love for riding.

MFR Featured at NorthFulton.com

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Category: Media Updates

Created: Sunday, 01 May 2011 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

ATLANTA — Robin Cavender is an example for children struggling with physical challenges. Cavender lost her leg at age 7 due to a congenital birth defect, but because there are prosthetics available, her daily routine seems unchanged. 

Cavender, a Forsyth County resident, has also inspired others, including Samantha Fraser. Fraser recently watched as Cavender mounted a large horse named "Red." 

Click here to continue reading...

Gentle Horsemanship, by Ed Dabney

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Category: The Spirit Of The Horse

Created: Saturday, 03 July 2010 17:43

Written by Ed Dabney

The relationship between man and horses goes back centuries, but it wasn’t until recently that research has begun to document the important role of horses as "therapist" in helping humans stay healthy and happy. There is a special, almost mystical, bond that people feel with horses. I believe it is a God-given connection that He placed inside the souls of the horse and the human which draws us to be mutually beneficial to each other.

Physical healing can take place just by getting out of the house to go be with horses. The physical activity of grooming, walking with a horse, working around the barn and certainly riding is definitely physically beneficial. Everyone can use some fresh air, sunshine and physical activity.

Emotional, mental and spiritual healing takes place as a human spends time just touching, talking to and being with horses. Horses are patient and good listeners. Horses offer unconditional love, acceptance and forgiveness. Horses are innocent, honest, dependable and straight-forward. They offer a strong shoulder to cry on if needed. Wouldn't everyone like to have a friend with those qualities?

Horses live "in the moment". They spend no time regretting the past or worrying about the future. This is a valuable life lesson we could learn from them. Being with a horse gives you the encouragement and opportunity to enjoy the present moment, to be in the "here and now", laying aside the cares of the day, the angers, the fears, the worries and just enjoy a refreshing respite from your crazy day. A new vision of hope and a sense of well being will emerge in your soul after drawing away from the turbulence of daily life to spend a quite hour with a horse.

This guest post has been written by Ed Dabney of Dabney Gentle Horsemanship.

Molly The Pony to be part of McKeever’s First Ride 2010

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Category: Press Releases

Created: Tuesday, 01 June 2010 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Contact
Robin Burton, Executive Director
OPAF & The First Clinics
319-235-4318 phone
319-235-4326 fax
rlb@opfund.org
www.opfund.org

June 1, 2010 – Atlanta, Georgia – Molly, an appaloosa pony, was abandoned and gravely injured in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Because of the extent of the wounds to her leg, she became an equine amputee with a prosthetic leg. Molly The Pony will be a featured part of the upcoming McKeever’s First Ride on Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Chastain Horse Park in Atlanta. McKeever’s First Ride offers amputees and those with physical challenges the chance to experience the healing powers and benefits of horses. The day’s events will include riding demonstrations, gentle horsemanship by renowned horseman, Ed Dabney, live music from Nashville singing star, Templeton Thompson, the chance to try
adaptive riding for those who are interested, arts and crafts, refreshments and more all at the nationally recognized facilities at Chastain Horse Park. McKeever’s First Ride is offered at NO CHARGE to any attendee.

“McKeever’s First Ride is more than a tribute to my father, Dan McKeever, a pioneer in the orthotics and prosthetics industry. It is a chance to bring people together to show them that they have the potential to be the best that they can be and that the relationship with horses can be such a benefit to them. Dan McKeever believed in enriching the lives of those who use orthotics and prosthetics and McKeever’s First Ride offers those kinds of opportunities for fun, fellowship and fitness,” said Deenie McKeever, daughter
and visionary of McKeever’s First Ride. This is the second year in a row that McKeever’s First Ride has been held at Chastain. In 2009 the inaugural event was held in conjunction with the Amputee Coalition of America conference. Since that time two more clinics have been held in New York and in Iowa. McKeever’s First Ride is just one of six adaptive recreational clinics hosted by OPAF and The First Clinics, the official philanthropic arm of the orthotic and prosthetic industry in the US. Adaptive tennis, golf, swimming, scuba, kayaking are also part of the First Clinics family. For more information, please visit our website at www.opfund.org.

The event will run from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, June 19. There is no fee for participants, but people are asked to pre-register so that we may be prepared. For more information and registration, please go to www.mfr_registration@yahoo.com or call Sally Davis at 678-371-5836.

Thank You

Details

Category: Testimonials

Created: Monday, 07 December 2009 19:15

Written by McKeever's First Ride

I am the extremely proud momma of twin horseback riders Sydney & Olyvia. Along with my daughters and husband, we had the unique honor to meet you at Mckeever's First. Sydney is a RLE amputee with a diagnosis of fibular hemimelia. She has always had an interest and love of horses. Her first opportunity to ride was because of you. Bothe she and her sister were estatic after our visit with you. Funny how a family from NE TN drove all the way to Atlanta,GA to discover their daughters deepest passions in life... Horses. Most importantly you taught ever child,parent and sibling as a unit that nothing should hold anyone back from anything they put their mind to. Horses are like people you told he children... Treat them softly and they will let you ride them and enjoy them. Your Father was a pioneer in prosthetic fabrication. He widdled legs out of wood. Miss Deenie I know he is proud of you for bringing a special portion of this world's population together if only for a day and sharing your horses and hospitality to their families. You did more than let my girls rode your horses that day. You vamped my Sudney's self-esteem. They started English saddle riding Summer 2011 have earned blue ribbons in competition and were given 2 mares for Christmas this year.

God Bless You.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Amy Fleming

Thank you so much for all you are doing!

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Category: Testimonials

Created: Tuesday, 01 December 2009 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

Thank you so much for all you are doing. My son really had a great time. You are welcome to use his picture. His name is Cruz Shoemaker and he is 3 years old. He had an aka at the age of 3 months due to a blood clot developing during lifesaving measures. He just learned to walk alone in November 2009. Seeing Molly was amazing. He does not know any children with amputations. We brought him to McKeever's First Ride hoping he would meet some. Instead, he met that wonderful pony and made lots of connections. -Lesli

Very Grateful!

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Category: Testimonials

Created: Friday, 03 July 2009 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

I just wanted to say from this amputee's heart, thank you... What you have done starting the McKeever's First Ride, has had so much effect on so many lives already.  As a person who grew up riding horses, it was never any doubt that I would ride again, although differently. I spent too much time riding bareback and in the timber as a child for it not too. And, that was when I wasn't in a show ring, running the barrels, kegs, flags, or doing the pleasure class..

The feel of a horse is so soothing to heart..the touch, the feel, the trust and love they have in you. They truly were a blessing to me once I returned home from the hospital to heal and resume my life after my accident. I am so pleased that it is continuing, and so honored to be a rider in the very first one.

 

I never doubted I would ride again, but, once I did, I felt like the world would be right again, after such an awful life changing accident. When I came home, there was absolutely no information as to how to resume your life available to me. But my horse was a huge help, once I could finally attempt to ride her. That's the reason so many of these are so important to me.

 

The strides that your father made in prosthetics effects us all, and I, for one, am very grateful for the strides he made, as I know it effects us all today. You have a right to be proud of him. I hope that I will be fortunate enough to again participate in other McKeever's Rides. 

 

Than you for everything.

 

Tammie

A Donor Story - Deenie McKeever

Details

Category: History Highlights

Created: Wednesday, 06 August 2008 13:52

Written by McKeever's First Ride

The following article was written about our Visionary, Deenie McKeever.

Profiles in O&P History - Daniel A. McKeever

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Category: History Highlights

Created: Wednesday, 01 January 2003 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride

"Legacies for learning and for professional and public service tomorrow"

With his passion for living, Daniel A. McKeever dedicated his life to helping and caring for individuals in his community. A long-time supporter and active participant in the advancement of O&P for over 60 years, Mr. McKeever made numerous contributions to the industry as both a practitioner and a teacher.

Born in New York City in 1910, Mr. McKeever pursued his undergraduate education at Georgia Institute of Technology. Graduating in the top ten percent of his class, he earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering while working full time in the institution's cooperative education plan. Mr. McKeever's four-hundred fellow classmates elected him Senior Class Treasurer, recognizing his keen leadership abilities and dedication to serving his community. It was during this time that Mr. McKeever met his future wife, Dee Coleman, at a Georgia Tech "tea dance." Upon their meeting, Ms. Coleman realized that Mr. McKeever would be an asset to whoever crossed his path.

Following his graduation from Georgia Tech, Mr. McKeever began his career in the Coleman family's orthotics and prosthetics business. Shortly thereafter, he worked as a part time technician for J.E. Hanger, Inc., one of America's oldest artificial limb companies that traced its roots to service on behalf of Civil War veterans. Like an artist with the keenest eye for detail, Mr. McKeever crafted artificial legs and knee joints from hardwood and rawhide. Like the best practitioner, he always placed service to individuals above every other concern. Mr. McKeever's unwavering commitment to the highest standards of conduct in every circumstance contributed to his becoming the 11th prosthetist certified by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC).

In 1937 Mr. McKeever assumed the positions of Manager and Treasurer of Hanger, Mr. McKeever's contributions to the business opened the next chapter in the long and distinguished history of the company. Informed by the value he placed on both education and business practice, he guided his employees first-hand through courses shaped by the very latest technological and material innovations of the day. Mr. McKeever's dedication helped to make Hanger one the largest and most successful O&P patient care companies in our nation.

The early 1940s saw Mr. McKeever bring his education, his energy, and his professional talents to the larger community in which he and his family lived and worked. In November 1940 he reported to active duty as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army. During the course of WWII Mr. McKeever not only achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel but also received the Legion of Merit for Service for service as a stock controller of the Signal Corps. In this position Mr. McKeever introduced and successfully implemented a range of efficiencies that yielded increased production capacity alongside a reduction of personnel. As his Citation for Legion of Merit states "Lieutenant Colonel McKeever was personally responsible for many of the outstanding achievements of the Signal Corps supply system in WWII."

Following his retirement from the U.S. Army on June 30, 1946, Mr. McKeever established SPS, a company that administered patient treatment facilities as a cooperative for Hanger. Guided by Mr. McKeever's steady hand and eye, SPS prospered over time. The current success of SPS as one of America's largest O&P component distributors and fabricators is built upon the foundations he established. Mr. McKeever always combined his success at SPS with his commitment to service within the O&P community. He served very successful terms as President of the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association and as President of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC). He served on the Board of Directors with the Hanger Orthopedic Group and remained an active consultant to SPS.

It is significant that Mr. McKeever's commitment to O&P continued until his passing in 1998.

In 1997, Mr. McKeever's family established a scholarship program in his name. Based at the O&P Educational Development Fund of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), the program keeps alive the hope that Mr. McKeever's pioneer spirit will be remembered and honored and will serve as a beacon of inspiration to individuals who follow in his footsteps. Complete information about the Dan McKeever Scholarship Program, including application details, is available on the AAOP web site at: www.oandp.org

Throughout his life, Mr. McKeever understood that education and the desire for continuous learning and public service to be the most valuable tenents every individual should nurture. Mr. McKeever's philosophy in this regard motivated his service as chairman of the Georgia Institute of Technology Development Fund, as President of the Georgia Tech National Alumni Association, as Senior Warden of St. Philips Cathedral, and as Chairman of Finance of the Atlanta Diocese of the Episcopal Church. In 1980, Mr. McKeever received from Georgia Tech its Alumni Distinguished Service Award.

Family was a priority for Mr. McKeever and a pride in his life. He had a daughter, Deenie McKeever and a son, Dan McKeever, as well as 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Mr. McKeever's contributions to improving life - indeed the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science, and technology - are contributions that we are proud to celebrate. His legacy is a foundation upon which the O&P community continues to grow today as new practitioners and teachers join the ranks. It inspires us to serve our community, our country, and our friends and neighbors with physical disabilities who, like us, strive to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

This bio-sketch is one in an occasional series entitled Profiles in O&P History: "Legacies for learning and for professional and public service tomorrow."

A component of the Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation's (OPAF) existing online Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) Awareness Program, "Profiles" features biographies of individuals who have made significant contributions both to the allied fields of orthotics and prosthetics and to their communities. Through "Profiles," the legacies of these individuals will be preserved for the benefit of future generations, so that O&P can continue to draw into it ranks individuals who uphold the highest standards in patient care, business, and public service.

Additional profiles will be included in this project as time and resources permit.

For more information about this project, or to suggest a profile, please contact OPAF at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel (202) 223-8878, eFax (415) 534-1857.

OPAF is a 501(c)(3) public charity, the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, OPAF now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science, and technology.

As a community-focused nonprofit organization, OPAF aims primarily to enable individuals with physical disabilities-especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community-to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

For complete information about OPAF programs, please contact the organization at the address noted above or visit www.opafonline.org.

Profiles in O&P History: "Legacies for learning and for professional and public service tomorrow" is © 2003 by OPAF.

Dan McKeever - What A Love For Life!

Details

Category: History Highlights

Created: Wednesday, 01 January 2003 00:00

Written by McKeever's First Ride