Daniel Bartholomaeus

MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE — HELP ME GIVE BACK TO PEGASUS

When I first started riding at Pegasus in 2008, I was five years old and needed two side-walkers and a leader to support me. As an autistic child with significant anxiety and communication difficulties, new situations could feel overwhelming.

But at Pegasus, I found patience, encouragement and acceptance. The horses, coaches and volunteers helped me build confidence, coordination and trust—at my own pace.

Pegasus also supported my mental health and wellbeing. Being around the horses helped me feel calmer when the world felt overwhelming. Having a place where I felt accepted, supported and connected to others helped ease my anxiety and build resilience. Each small achievement gave me more confidence in myself.

Over time, I progressed to riding independently. At 13, I completed volunteer training and began helping in the stables. Going from needing so much support to being able to contribute myself was a huge milestone.

Pegasus was life-changing for me. It gave me a place to belong and the confidence to discover what I could do.

Today, as a Pegasus Ambassador and the 2025 ACT Young Australian of the Year, I’m proud to be supporting the Pegasus 50 for 50 campaign, celebrating 50 years of helping people with disabilities. Giving back to an organisation that has played such an important part in my life.

I know firsthand that a session at Pegasus can mean much more than time on a horse. It can be a small step towards independence, a moment of connection, or the first time someone feels brave enough to try something new. The unique rhythm of a horse’s stride isn't just a ride, it acts as physical therapy, building core strength, motor skills, confidence, and pure joy. 

Please help me give others the chance to experience what I did. Every donation, whatever the size, supports Pegasus to continue this work. If you can’t donate, sharing this page can help too.

Whether you donate, share the campaign, become a dollar matcher or get involved yourself, your support means a lot.

Thank you for supporting a place that helped me find my confidence—and for helping someone else find theirs.

Want to get involved? Find out more or support our fundraising efforts here:
https://give.pegasusact.org.au/event/50-for-50/donate

Daniel Bartholomaeus | DanBartArt