Alena Sorm

Alena SORM Alena Sorm was born in Seattle, Washington, on February 27, 1963, and died at home in Woodinville on September 12, 2011. Alena attended Hillaire Elementary School, Highland Junior High and graduated in 1982 from Interlake High School. She was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 5. In her later years, through much investigation by Dr. Phillip Swanson, Dr. Tom Bird and Dr. Colin Sheehy at University of Washington Medical Center, it was discovered that Alena actually had a rare genetic mutation, called Ataxia Telangiectasia. Although Alena could never comb her own hair or brush her own teeth, when she was 13 she discovered horses - and Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center in Woodinville took her under their wing. Alena became an accomplished western rider, and was invited to compete in many horse shows all over the United States. Alena made Little Bit her life. Although in failing health, she rode until just a few weeks before her death. Alena's family is forever thankful to the staff and volunteers at Little Bit for their caring support of our precious child. A celebration of Alena's life was held at her home on July 17, 2011, which included all of her closest friends, neighbors and fellow cohorts from Little Bit. Alena leaves behind her very best buddies, Misha and Taffy; her friends at the barn, Dawn, Dana, Kathy, Joan, and all the staff, volunteers and riders at Little Bit. Alena is survived by her parents, Peggy and Jiri Sorm, and her beloved baby brother Bill and his wife Brenda. Also Auntie Jo, and her cousins Laura, Katie and Janet, and their families. Alena and her unending supply of carrots will be missed by every horse at Little Bit, and they all will wonder where that kid on wheels with the carrots has gone. We know that she's off riding her horse Tristan in Heaven, and is sometimes just walking with him by her side. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center of Woodinville, Washington. Do not weep for us We are not there We are the wind in your hair We are the tears in your ears when you lie on the soft grass counting stars We are the sunshine beaming off your bald head, Dad We are the thunder you hear when we are riding free....forever