Monday, September 27, 2010

The Sweetest Thing.....

This amazing thing took place on Friday morning. Nick stayed home from school that day due to really because we did not know how he would take to this. It has made some kids dizzy, nauseous, etc. Plus, we were not sure how long it would take to get through everything such as paperwork, evals, etc. But, it was the most amazing therapy we have thought to try. And we saw results immediately. Even though this was a new experience for Nick, he was completely calm while riding. No stimming. At All. He was looking at people as they talked to him and doing what they asked. While riding the horse. It was beautiful to witness. He did it so naturally...not robotic. He was petting the horse, brushing him, telling him to go and stop, and before we left, he gave Yukon two big hugs and said Goodbye. The entire ride home he was calm and did not stim either. We are currently working with our insurance company and will provide them with progress reports to see if we can start getting this type of therapy covered. It was amazing. Enjoy the video. This type of therapy is called Hippotherapy. "Hippo" is the greek word for Horse. I will go more in depth later about its' uses for special needs kids and how it helps the vestibular system; but until then, just enjoy the video.

2 comments:

M said...

Oh this makes me just giddy! Amazing is an understatement! I've always wanted to try this with Liam but haven't due to cost. Where did you guys go? Oh man alive how remarkable. Love it love it love it. <3

Amy said...

M,
We go through the Children's Therapy Center in Tacoma. As for cost, they have what they call 'scholarship programs' based on income and your bills. For the moment, our insurance has appeared to cover it-we got a whole LIST of approved therapies and devices, so I am assuming that it what it all amounts to. They just want us to provide how it helps him.