Leora Barry just turned 30 and what better way to celebrate than to challenge herself to a marathon.  Her motivation is to raise money for Pioneer Valley Therapeutic Riding Association, Inc. (PVTRA), a program that continues to shape her life.  So, on June 25, 2011, she will be running a 26.2 mile route from her home in Ludlow through Belchertown and Granby ending back at her home.  She is encouraging anyone who is game to join her for a mile or 2.

Adding to her list of accomplishments, Leora graduated from Bay Path College with a Masters in Occupational Therapy on May 15th.  She has dyslexia.  Leora wants to share her success with adults and children with dyslexia.  Dyslexia is a learning difference and can throw up many road blocks.  Don’t give up.  Leora’s motto is “Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.” 

Therapeutic riding is an equine assisted activity which teaches horsemanship skills to children and adults with physical, cognitive, psycho-social or mental health concerns.  PVTRA has been serving Belchertown and the surrounding communities since 1984.  Would you please consider donating a dime to a dollar a mile to PVTRA for their building fund.  You can donate online at www.pioneervalleytra.org or mail a check to PVTRA, PO Box 944, Belchertown, MA 01007.

Here is a map of Leora’s route.  She plans to begin her run at 7am. (D is the start/finish, at 84 Bridle Rd. Ludlow)  

 http://www.belchertown-news.com/web/belchertown-newscom/news/articles/article263.asp