By Staci DaSilva
sdasilva@kcautv.com
Jennie Piester was the longest continual rider at Sioux City's "Special Troopers Adaptive Riding School", or S.T.A.R.S., and her peers there say they'll never forget her.
It was high atop horses where Jennie Piester spent 27 years of her life.
The movement of the horse helped her build strength and coordination when her vision could not. The 38-year old was visually impaired and started attending S.T.A.R.S. when she was just 11 years old.
S.T.A.R.S. Executive Director Stacy Pedersen said, "I don't think she ever had a bad day. She was so full of life. And I enjoyed watching her come in and ride."
You see, it wasn't just Jennie doing the learning, she taught her peers at stars about passion and character everyday.
"She just touched everybody's life in such a beautiful way," said Pedersen.
Jennie died in a car accident on January 29, 2012. Her mother, Cynthia, also lost her life that day.
And while the memory of that day still hurts, it's also become a force for good at S.T.A.R.S.
Last March, the organization began the Jennie Piester Sponsorship Fund.
"So this will allow us to continue our wonderful programs that we have here and then also be able to continue her memory," said Pedersen.
So far, the organization has raised over $20,000, so that, maybe, kids can spend the next few decades learning and growing at S.T.A.R.S., just like Jennie did.
You can donate too by contacting S.T.A.R.S.:
Phone - (712) 239-5042
Mail - 33148 K22 Sioux City, IA 51108
Web - Scstars.org
Checks made out to Jennie Piester.
