Pegasus Therapeutic Riding - Healing Hands on Horseback"
By: Debbie Rotolo
Published: April 19, 2007 in the White Plains Times
URL: http://www.wptimes.com/speaking_of_pets.php?viewspecific=1&storyid=1307
“It makes a huge difference to your child. It teaches them that nothing can stop them from achieving. On that horse, they are normal.” —White Plains resident Gail Jasne
I was not sure what to expect when I observed an afternoon of Pegasus Therapeutic Riding classes recently. Pegasus, a “premier accredited member” of NARHA (the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association—NARHA.org) was founded in 1975 by volunteers who believed in the therapeutic power of horseback riding. These dedicated individuals were determined to bring the benefits and joys of horseback riding to the disabled in their community. Today, Pegasus has become one of the largest and most highly regarded therapeutic riding programs in the United States, servicing some 200 students annually in programs at seven locations throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties. The riding programs are provided at a low cost to students and most of the program costs are funded by the donations of Pegasus’ many benefactors.
The Pegasus program unmistakably transforms the lives and capabilities of children and adults with such physical and mental disabilities as autism, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, blindness, Down syndrome, and other developmental challenges. Pegasus accepts children as young as four years old but has adult students into their 70s.
Students at Kelsey Farm, Pegasus’ Greenwich, Conn. location, complete their riding class under the vigilant eye of Pegasus instructor Susan Weber and under the supervision of three volunteers each. Remarkably, even the horses seem to understand the special needs of their riders and the importance of their task. As they serenely walk around the ring, you can see the patience and gentle determination in their eyes. It is an amazing and touching experience.
White Plains resident Gail Jasne spoke of her two daughters at Pegasus. Allison, 10, suffers from low muscle tone and is a fifth-year Pegasus student. Jennifer, who told me that she is “eight and three-quarters years old,” has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. She started riding last September.
Gail said that Allison has benefited from the physical therapy aspect of the program. “Thanks to Pegasus, Allison’s strength has grown, and she is far more self-confident and capable. Jennifer is calmer and more able to perform focus-driven tasks, like homework. Her concentration has improved dramatically. Both girls are happier and more content. During the winter, Allison loves participating in the grooming classes, which involve hands-on care of the horses. It is educational and provides great exercise,” said Gail.
Fran Cignarella of White Plains, whose daughter Alyssa is eight and has Down syndrome, told me, “Alyssa has been a Pegasus student for four years. The program provides an important source of strength, self-confidence and a vastly increased ability to function in the outside world,” says Fran. “When Alyssa began the classes, she would tire after 15 minutes. Now, she rides for 45 minutes and doesn’t want to stop!”
Gail enthusiastically mentioned the dedicated, carefully trained volunteers. “You can see how much they care about your child’s safety and development. It shows in everything they do,” she commented.
Colin Riley, communications officer for Pegasus, spoke about the upcoming Horse Show on May 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by Max and Judy Richter at Coker Farm in Bedford, N.Y., the show spotlights the talents and achievements of 85 students. “The show includes music, riding classes, art activities, awards, raffles, and a costume parade. The public is invited to attend, and it is a great way for parents to become familiar with everything Pegasus offers,” Colin said. Fran added, “Everyone who attends has loads of fun. The students’ friends and family members cheer them on, and it really is their day to shine!”
Pegasus currently holds classes at stables in North Salem and Pleasantville, N.Y., as well as Greenwich and four other locations in Connecticut. Thanks to an anonymous donor, the organization has also acquired a spacious 20-acre farm in Brewster, N.Y., which will become a dedicated, state-of-the-art therapeutic riding center. It will allow the organization to expand their programs and the volume of students they serve. A large indoor ring will eventually facilitate year-round riding programs.
“Volunteers are always needed,” stated Bill Prout, volunteer coordinator and instructor. “People who are 14 and older who have patience, love and a sincere desire to help are always a great addition to our family.” No prior experience is necessary, since all volunteers undergo a detailed training program.
If you are interested in exploring the benefits of the Pegasus Therapeutic Riding program, or you would like to volunteer or donate to this wonderful and deserving organization, call (203) 356-9504 for more information. Web site: www.pegasustr.org .
