I started undergoing chemotherapy for leukemia in July, dealing with a number of new threats, obstacles, and challenges. Fortunately, in late August the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach sent me an email entitled, “Horses for Veterans-Equine Therapy.”
I immediately sensed that this program could address my newfound feelings of isolation and disconnect caused by my medical treatments and recovery. At the same time, I had an almost equally powerful anxiety; a resistance to seeking help.
But I made the call. And I’m super-happy that I did.
On my first day in Equine Therapy I was especially pleased with the instructors’ deliberate pace. I have limited experience around horses.
The highlight of that first day was working with a pony named Robin Hood. Robin exhibited inexhaustible patience as he endured my rookie attempts at basic grooming. I formed a strong bond with him in 10-15 minutes.
In fact, the most remarkable part of this program is just how quickly the horses bond with the Veterans.
The subsequent eight sessions have seen a rapid acceleration in both my confidence in communicating with the group (6 Veterans, 3 Facilitators) and in working with the horses. When I started this program I had a somewhat strong fear of horses. I’m surprised and pleased to report that I’ve never felt any trepidation about the horses at Vinceramos. I adore every one of them.
After every session my Veteran's group frequently remarks how astonished we are at how well we did working with the horses; how much we’ve learned-about ourselves, about other members of the group, and, of course, about “our” horses. Our collective trust has increased. Our confidence has grown.
“Trust.” As herd animals horses seem to be constantly communicating, “Are we all together...?” Veterans relate strongly to this. It is awe inspiring how quickly we bond with a horse, in many cases with animals we’ve never met. In a matter of minutes were welcomed into “the herd.” This must be seen to be believed. By focusing our energies and building our skills at a deliberate pace, we earn the horses’ trust.
In sum, after a ninety minute session with this Veteran’s group, these instructors, these horses, I feel increasingly confident, more relaxed. More connected. Empowered.
Scott Hinckley
Port Saint Lucie, Florida
Army, 4 years Active Duty
This place is incredible and it has a lot to do with the people working there. They are larger than any other equine therapy center I can find (at least in Florida) and serve so many people. They are already doing emotional, cognitive, and emotional therapy as well as serving as a place for kids to learn social skills and responsibility. Now they are growing to do mental health therapy, support systems for women, and therapy for veterans. I came on as a volunteer knowing nothing about horses and quickly became competent and included in the family. I rarely seen such a supportive system that goes across staff to volunteer to the rider and their family. Everyone is valued and teamwork is essential. I worked my butt off but it was therapeutic to me as much as the riders, every minute was worth it.
Way back in 1986, my daughter Kathryn who is autistic and deaf was a very angry 4 year old. She had no communication skills and became frustrated at every turn. Her behavior was aggressive and angry and she was out of control. Special needs day care filled part of her day, but her behaviors were dangerous to herself and others and I was at a loss as how to help her. At that time, schools and doctors didn't know much about Autism or how to treat and help people with that disability. One day while driving I saw a sign on Lake Worth Road - Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center. I stopped in and spoke with the director, Ruth Menor and explained about my daughter and her aggressive behaviors. Ruth didn't blink, she said, bring her and we will see how she does.
As with anything new, Kathryn was resistant, crying, kicking, throwing herself on the ground - all those behaviors that would have scared any instructor, didn't faze Ruth or her instructor, Kathy LaCroix. After several lessons, Kathryn's behavior improved to the point that she 'stayed' on the horse and started 'looking at' Kathy. Kathy started SIGNING to her and for the first time Kathryn started SIGNING back....Horse....Walk...Trot...Ride..
I credit Vinceremos with opening up Kathryn's world. She started looking at people's faces and attending to their SIGNS. For a child who was angry and tantrumed and resisted any kind of help - she was now looking for attention and looking forward to her lessons on her favorite horse, Cinnamon.
Now at age 35 Kathryn still rides at Vinceremos weekly. She looks forward to seeing her 'friends' and receiving the unconditional understanding that Vinceremos is noted for. This is an organization that totally cares about the disabled rider first, whatever their need and ability is - Vinceremos staff is there for them.
I get to volunteer as a side walker for the Tuesday afternoon hippo therapy lessons. I love it! Those kids are so excited to get on their pony and ride. Their posture improves by the minute and they cooperate with all the instructions and encouragement of the teachers. When they finished the give the best high fives and they walk with greatly improved coordination. These afternoons are the most rewarding part of my week!