Defying Parkinson’s: Kylie Christian’s journey of resilience through para dressage
.png)
How Kylie Christian transformed her Parkinson’s diagnosis into a path of triumph
Kylie Christian’s passion for horse riding began at just eight years old when she received her first horse. However, the trajectory of her equestrian career took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s at 45. Kylie’s determination to not let Parkinson’s define her has made her a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges.
A life altering diagnosis: Kylie’s early struggles with Parkinson’s symptoms
In 2018 Kylie started noticing unusual symptoms that affected both her riding and daily life. At first she dismissed them, attributing the changes to past injuries or fatigue. But as her symptoms progressed, difficulty balancing, a pronounced limp and issues coordinating movement, it became clear that something more serious was happening.
“Because Parkinson’s is progressive, you don’t really notice until there are a whole lot of symptoms... you just sort of make excuses and it gradually builds up and you learn to live with that,” Kylie explains.
The turning point came when her riding instructor encouraged her to seek professional help, leading to a Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2021.
Overcoming the odds: From diagnosis to para dressage champion
Instead of letting her diagnosis limit her, Kylie found strength in para dressage, a discipline designed for athletes with physical impairments.
“I was in the hospital and looked at the neurologist and I just said, ‘I’m going to ride para’”, Kylie reflects.
Just a year after her diagnosis Kylie and her horse Oscar achieved personal best scores at the Australian Para Dressage Championships, earning a spot on the Victorian state team. Her success did not stop there. Kylie was also long listed by Paralympics Australia for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Living with Parkinson’s: Challenges and triumphs in elite equestrian sport
Parkinson’s presents daily physical challenges especially for an athlete in a precision sport like dressage. Kylie’s motor skills and coordination have been affected, requiring adaptations such as using bands to secure her left foot in the stirrup and riding with a double bridle to help with collecting and maintaining rein length. Despite these obstacles Kylie continues to excel, demonstrating how those living with Parkinson’s can overcome physical barriers through innovation, persistence and adaptive strategies.
Deep brain stimulation surgery: A game changer for Kylie’s equestrian career
In late 2024 as her symptoms worsened, Kylie made the pivotal decision to undergo Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery, something she says has changed her life.
“Before the surgery, I seriously thought I would never ride again...it’s changed my life,” says Kylie.
This transformative procedure has allowed her to return to riding with newfound strength and clarity. Within six weeks Kylie was back in the saddle, rekindling her love for the sport. She now has her sights set on the World Equestrian Games in Germany and is even contemplating a run for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, determined to make her childhood dreams come true.
“You know, every little girl that horse rides dreams of going to the Olympics,” she says. “When I was a little girl, I embroidered ‘Someday I will ride in the Olympics’ on my saddle pad, and now my dream is my goal.”
Raising Parkinson’s awareness: Kylie Christian’s advocacy for others living with Parkinson’s
Beyond her competitive accomplishments Kylie is a passionate advocate for both Parkinson’s awareness and para dressage. She mentors new riders, speaks at public events and participates in fundraising initiatives to raise awareness about Parkinson’s. Kyle also joins us as an ambassador for A Walk in the Park 2025. Her mission is simple to show others that even with Parkinson’s, pursuing your dreams and achieving your goals is still possible. Kylie’s story stands as a powerful testament to resilience, showing that Parkinson’s does not have to be the end, it can be the beginning of a new rewarding chapter.
An inspirational story: Kylie’s unbreakable spirit continues to shine
Kylie Christian’s journey proves that no challenge is too great when met with determination. She has transformed her diagnosis into motivation, achieving extraordinary feats in para dressage and beyond. For those living with Parkinson’s, Kylie’s story is a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of adversity, incredible achievements are possible.