I am the mother of 2 special needs boys, Nicholas and Luciano–ages 7 & 8–who have been privileged to attend the equine therapy program at Frying Pan Park. My sons were born with a genetic disorder called Fragile X and are developmentally delayed. They have not been able to participate in a lot of the normal play activities that other children their age enjoy. So when I found out about the equine therapy program for special needs children, I immediately signed them up.
When my sons first attended the equine therapy program, they were afraid of the horses and did not want to go near the fence that surrounded the walking ring. After working with the kind, well-trained volunteers, my sons gradually acclimated themselves to the gentle, patient horses. By the end of the equine therapy sessions, my sons ran to the gate of the walking ring and tried to climb over the fence to get to their favorite horses.
This program helped Nicholas and Luciano master their fears about very large animals, and they mastered the skill of riding a horse. They developed a love for the horses, volunteers, and they developed a lot of self-confidence through this program, which is a rare opportunity for special needs children.
Seeing my sons with big smiles on their faces, sitting tall on their horses, while riding around the ring, made my heart swell with pride and happiness. I know that my sons greatly benefit from and really need experiences in the community like this.
Thank you so much for investing in a program that has touched my sons, my family, and the community–for good! You made our dreams come true with your huge help.
