Living in suburban Howard County between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Helen and John Tuel had a pony for their two growing boys. Inspired by a neighbor who asked if Helen could teach her son to ride the pony, she decided to become a riding teacher for individuals with Down Syndrome and other special needs. She left her career as a dental hygienist and went on to obtain a doctorate from Vanderbilt University. John concentrated on learning stable management. They acquired their current 55-acre farm with a house, a barn and abundant pastures in Glenwood, MD. Over 30 years and many improvements later, they continue to work to improve and expand TRRC.