This morning I went on a surprise adventure where I discovered my father horseback riding at the ROCK. What? My dad, horseback riding? Weekly!?! You’ve got to be kidding! After his brain cancer, surgery, chemo and radiation therapy, I’ve grown accustom to my hero being a brilliant sloth. In fact, I’ve been expecting him to be wheelchair bound. So to see him decked out in his cowboy hat and boots…and riding a horse was a precious gift.
I had never heard of hippotherapy before.
Hippotherapy is a treatment that uses the multidimensional movement of the horse; from the Greek word “hippos” which means horse. Specially trained physical, occupational and speech therapists use this medical treatment for clients who have movement dysfunction.
Physically, hippotherapy can improve balance, posture, mobility and function. Hippotherapy may also affect psychological, cognitive, behavioral and communication functions for clients of all ages. Clients respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable learning experience in a natural setting.
The man that got off that horse was walking taller and feeling stronger than I’ve seen in years. I couldn’t be more grateful for the angels (Nancy, Joan, Heidi, Pam and my wonderful Mom) who made this possible.
Wow! I am excited and impressed to hear of your Dad’s progress. What good news!
Glenda – how amazing! And as incredible an experience for you to see, it must have been life changing for your Dad.
This is just too wonderful for words. -all smiles-
I can’t believe it took me this long to read this. For just a moment, I had a mental image of your dad the way I remember him when we were in high school — the big, tall, (mostly) silent guy wearing boots and jeans and an impish grin. It nearly brought a tear to my eye.
It’s truly a wonder of the world — how life surprises us and makes us humble. I’m very happy for you and for your parents.
And while I’m being grateful, let me just say…that you girls really help me get the very most out of the rollarcoaster of life. Thanks for always being there to help me survive the low points and enjoy the hell out of the high points without forgetting to live life to it’s fullest every day.
I thank you for your comment.