Initially, she faced significant sensory challenges, reacting strongly to stimuli like wind and heat, and was understandably hesitant to engage.
In the beginning, we focused on gently introducing Angela to the horses without any pressure, allowing her to observe and become comfortable at her own pace.
Recognizing the need for more time, we paused the sessions to let her mature further. Four months later, with unwavering support from her dedicated parents, Angela returned to our program, and we welcomed her back with open arms.
After several sessions of close collaboration between Angela, our skilled therapist Noor Ayub, and our compassionate volunteers, a significant milestone was achieved: Angela was comfortably seated on Nena, our gentle therapy horse, alongside Noor. This moment marked a tremendous breakthrough. With her father walking beside her and volunteers assisting, Angela displayed happiness, laughter, and newfound confidence.
Angela continues to participate in equine therapy, and the positive effects are extending beyond the ranch. Previously, she struggled to remain seated for extended periods; however, in her most recent session, she stayed on the horse for an impressive 45 minutes. Additionally, she has become calmer and more open to new experiences at school. This progress is a testament to the collaborative efforts of her devoted parents, Noor’s expertise, and the patience of our volunteers.
Her parents expressed their gratitude, saying, “Gracias por tu dedicación y paciencia, gracias por todo lo que has hecho con mi hija.”
Angela’s journey is just one of many inspiring stories from our first year of the equine therapy program. We warmly invite you to visit and witness these transformative experiences firsthand.
Equine-assisted therapy has been shown to offer numerous benefits for individuals with autism, including improvements in social functioning, motor skills, and sensory integration.