My Nonprofit Reviews

While Kat's twin sister found her niche with multiple dance classes during the week, it's more difficult to find outside interests that Kat can pursue with her CP issues limiting her movement. Although PT appointments outside of school would be beneficial, Kat has not been that excited about going to them. However, she has been attending Hippotherapy at Sebastian for several years, on Friday evenings no less, when she is often a little tired from her busy day/week at school, yet she still starts clapping when we get to the turn for Sebastian, and she squeals and smiles when she sees her PT Janet, as well as Jenny and the other awesome volunteers that make her session safe, possible and productive. She fits in a strong PT session without even realizing she's working; sitting backward on the horse and throwing bean bags at a target are lots of fun, but she's improving her balance, strengthening her core, and stretching her tight hamstrings at the same time. This activity gives her the chance to feel special, confident and more independent while also getting to be with horses, and she loves animals, so that is especially motivating. Seeing her slender form sitting so tall and straight on top of one of the big horses, hearing her squeals of delight, and returning her proud wave as she rides her horse past me makes me feel so grateful for the family atmosphere at Sebastian Therapeutic Riding.