Long Shot

Those who have spent any time around horses can vouch for their healing power. Horses have been used to tame the tantrums of autistic children and their rhythmic movement has proved to be soothing and settling for those who suffer from movement disorders like cerebral palsy. Prisoners are transformed by grooming and caring for horses. Many are inspired by their strength and wisdom.

Now comes the story of Sylvia Harris who credits horses with saving her life. And what a life it is. From the very bottom of the barrel--suffering from bipolar disorder and homeless--she regains control of her life by working with horses. First in Ocala, as a groom/hotwalker and eventually as a jockey.

"Against all odds," she writes, "at forty years old, I became the first African American woman in Chicago racing history to win a race and only the second in U. S. history."

Harris was interviewed on NPR on March 7 by Michelle Martin and her story is nothing short of amazing. Sounds like an inspirational read to say the least.