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Rider at Halleck Creek
Every morning Ian Libaire has to rely on his family members to help him dress. Ian is 25 years old but even the simplest things can be a challenge for him. He suffers with low vision, limited mobility, and impaired mental function resulting from a brain injury he was born with. And since exercise with his own legs is so limited, Ian gets a little help from his 4 legged riding companion, a horse. Ian is a member of the Halleck Creek 4H Riding Club in Nicasio, CA.
Each Saturday Ian mounts up and is led around on horseback, where he participates in group activities with others benefitting from the therapy program. Hippo therapy (or horseback riding) is a unique physical exercise that mimics walking and the benefits are surprising. (Click here to read more)
The physical exercise is one good aspect but Ian’s father, who spoke on Ian’s behalf, had this comment:
“The exercise is fine but it is really the psychological and emotional benefits that Ian derives that are the major thing. Because Ian enjoys riding so much, his days are counted around what day he is going to the ranch. There aren’t that many things that Ian can do and this is something the whole family can enjoy with him.”
The riding program at Halleck Creek has been helping people just like Ian for 30 years, not charging the riding students, but relying on grants and donations to stay open. Because the program is so successful the waiting list is always long. If you would like to learn more about Halleck Creek’s program I have included a link to their web site below. Or maybe you just want to stop by and check it out for yourself. On Saturday, May 16 Halleck Ranch will be hosting an open house and hope anyone interested can attend.
Halleck Creek Ranch Open House
Saturday, May 16, Open House, 11 am - 3 pm.
Enjoy a BBQ, Rider Horse Show, Wagon Rides,
and Tours of Halleck Creek Ranch.
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