At the age of 3, Willow Street native Maya Pieters, 20, was diagnosed with a rare neurological syndrome known as congenital bilateral perisylvian disorder. On average, Maya has eight seizures every day ... but not when she's with horses.

When Maya was 15, Maya's mother, Michelle Pieters, had arranged for Maya to go on horse riding lessons, but Maya was unable to because of her seizures. "Maya was absolutely devastated," said Michelle. Then Michelle discovered Green Meadow Farm in the Lititz area, which offers children and teens struggling with trauma or emotional difficulties free interaction with horses and farm life.

Knowing she couldn't take riding lessons, Maya began volunteering at Green Meadow Farm. "In the past five or six years since she started volunteering, Maya's never had a seizure while with the horses," explained Michelle. "It's her happy place. It's calming to her."

In addition to volunteering at Green Meadow Farm, Maya blogs for Building Bridges Foundation at Anderson Farm. Building Bridges Foundation provides veterans, their families, and individuals experiencing trauma, loss, or cognitive or emotional challenges a safe space for personal growth through equine-assisted activities.

In 2019, Maya went on her Wish Trip through Make-A-Wish. Although people suggested she go to Disney World, Maya asked to attend the 145th Kentucky Derby with her sister and parents. "The Derby experience was unbelievable," said Michelle. "I loved meeting the people who came to make Maya feel like the most important person on the planet. They definitely succeeded. I was so thankful for them."

While at the Derby, Maya met racehorse trainer Bob Baffert and his two Triple Crown winners. "Maya went right up to the horses and the security asked, 'What is she, the horse whisperer?'" Michelle said with a laugh. "Maya has an incredible bond with horses. They don't judge her, they don't see her seizures, and they don't hear her speech disability."

A couple in South Carolina that owns and raises horses was so touched by Maya's story that they named one of their horses Maya's Miracle. Maya got to meet Maya's Miracle when the horse was training in Maryland. "The trainers stopped in amazement to see the bond between Maya and Maya's Miracle," said Michelle. "It's like they knew each other."

Wish Trips through Make-A-Wish were put on hold last year due to the pandemic. When Maya discovered this development, she decided to raise money for the Wish Trips and surpassed her $250 goal by raising more than $3,000. As a result, Make-A-Wish nominated Maya to be a Wish Hero for the month of April. Maya's goal this time is to raise $3,000.

To make a donation, visit http://bit.ly/MayaPieters.