Horses have been around for ages and were the companions of humans in their everyday work. The therapeutic value of horses was known in those days. While the concept faded over time, in the later part of the last century, the importance of equine therapy emerged again. This has once more gained importance and is gradually penetrating into the society.

Nowadays, there are equestrian centers dedicated to the noble cause of providing equine therapy to those in need. They have opened their doors to patients and often send their horses to those in need. Recently, a case of a seven-year-old girl came to light who regularly visits an equestrian center to overcome her adversity.

Equestrian center helps Emma to regain confidence

Emma Celenza, a seven-year-old girl from Pennsylvania, was born with a mid-forearm amputation, which had a significant impact on her psychological well-being and eroded her confidence in pursuing various activities in her life. According to 6abc, her guardians learned about the Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy and decided to give it a visit. The equestrian center helps individuals with disabilities or medical conditions in which horse riding is part of treatment. After visiting the center, Emma who loves animals, liked and familiarized herself with the place and started her riding. It has been a few years since her first visit and the girl has realized the change.

Emma said, “I’m strong, brave, and I can do anything“. She further said, “Riding horses definitely helped me believe it“. Emma’s mother Samantha said she was looking for a center that could build her kid’s confidence, help her regain the strength, and try something new in her life. The Hope Spring helped her achieve that dream. Samantha observed that her daughter used to lean on one side due to her hand amputation. But now, after horse riding, she has learned the perfect balance. Emma rides Hamilton, the steed who is currently helping her develop riding skills, through an instructor. The equestrian center has become a source of uplifting Emma’s spirit.

About Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy

The Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy was founded in the year 1997 and is situated in Chester County. The equestrian therapy center caters to people who are diagnosed with medical conditions or have a physical disability. Currently, according to its executive director Jeannie Knowlton, the center has students from 11 months old to early 70s.

Read More: “Animal-Human Relationship”: Board Chair of Popular Equestrian Therapy Center Goes Candid About the Non-Profit Organization’s Mission

The center is run by the Knowlton family where Jeannie’s daughter Dallas is the Program Director and her husband helps them in the daily work of the center. Jeannie’s elder daughter has a physical disability. She also approached the center for treatment. The center works through fundraisers who support its program of equine therapy.

Hope Spring Equestrian Therapy is doing an amazing job of supporting people with disabilities, and the transformation in Emma’s life over the last few years is a testament to their success.

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