Young Riders Who Lead Honoree
At just 13- years- old, Ava Kohls from Crestline, Ohio, embodies an extraordinary spirit of strength and determination that many of us strive for throughout our lives. Her journey is not merely one of survival; it’s a testament to thriving against the odds. Ava’s profound love for horses has been a guiding light, providing inspiration and healing as she navigates one of the most challenging battles a child can face—brain tumors.
From a young age, Ava’s fascination with horses was evident. Her mother, Kelsey Kohls, fondly recalls how Ava would pretend to ride and jump with a stuffed horse even as a toddler. “She had everything related to horses—from the pink horse bedspread to adorable Breyer barns and little ponies,” Kelsey reminisces. Ava’s dream was simple yet deeply meaningful: to become a trick rider, mastering the art of jumping poles and barrel racing. However, life took an unexpected turn when, at four-years-old, an accident led to the discovery of brain tumors that required immediate surgery. The news shattered their world, bringing with it the harsh reality that Ava might never walk again.
The day before her surgery, Ava was given an opportunity to live out her dream, even if just for a fleeting moment. She borrowed a friend’s horse and participated in the local fair, a heartfelt event that caught the attention of news reporters and captivated many hearts. “It was a special yet heartbreaking moment,” Kelsey reflects.
Ava’s brain surgery lasted an exhausting eight hours, and the aftermath revealed a reality that was both cruel and unimaginable. She struggled to walk, hold herself up, or even feed herself. Yet, amidst these trials, Ava’s spirit shined through. “After months of occupational therapy and her unwavering drive, she slowly began to walk, sit up, and feed herself again,” Kelsey shares. One pivotal recommendation from her doctors was Equine-Assisted Therapy, a step that would help her rebuild strength and balance. Ava began attending Raemelton Equestrian Therapeutic Center in Mansfield, Ohio, where the bond she formed with the horses became nothing short of miraculous. “Ava’s love for horses played a significant role. The connections she built with a few horses made what seemed difficult for others come more easily to her,” says Kelsey.
Throughout her recovery, Ava faced numerous hurdles—migraines, seizures, frequent nosebleeds, nightmares, and hair loss. But rather than asking, “Why me?” she drew strength from her passion for horses and her determination to conquer the obstacles in her way. At six, she bravely decided to try ballet and dance, despite having no prior experience. She auditioned for a dance company and successfully joined, mastering various styles, including pointe. She even performed solo on stages across the country, including Disney. Yet, after reaching her dance goals, Ava felt a pull back to her first love—horses.
Today, Ava volunteers at the very therapeutic center that played a crucial role in her recovery. She helps children in classes and tends to the horses in the barns. “She wants to inspire all the kids coming to Raemelton, showing them that she once stood where they are today, giving back to the place that provided her with hope when she needed it most,” Kelsey explains. But Ava’s ambitions extend beyond volunteering; she has recently started training for horse shows, and jumping with the guidance of Sierra Floyd at Crimson Moon Arabian Sporthorses. Even as a novice, young rider, she has already won ribbons in her first three shows.
Ava’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and community. She consistently defies medical expectations and inspires those around her. Her short-term goal is to jump 2-foot poles with her Arabian horse, Luna, while her long-term dream is to become a farrier, train horses, and possibly own a farm or horse rescue. “Trainer, Sierra has been instrumental in helping Ava navigate the final phase of her healing journey without even realizing it. Ava has made tremendous progress because she refuses to be defined by a medical diagnosis. She has inspired countless individuals from all walks of life. Despite having a remaining tumor and facing various health challenges, Ava refuses to use them as crutches or excuses to hold her back. Instead, she leverages these experiences as motivation to live life to the fullest and continues to spread awareness and hope to others when they feel like giving up,” Kelsey remarks.
Ava Kohls is not just a survivor; she is a beacon of hope and perserverance. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, the human spirit can prevail. Whether she’s volunteering at Raemelton or competing in horse shows, Ava lives by a quote that resonates deeply with her: “You have the power to say, ‘This is not how my story will end.’” Ava’s story is just beginning, and with her unyielding spirit, the future is undoubtedly bright.
