When I was expecting my sixth child 3 years ago, I automatically assumed the baby would be healthy just like my other 5 children. I was therefore unprepared when Natalie came into this world with Downs Syndrome. I was extremely frightened and also experienced an incredible sadness. This was due to the fact that I had no prior experience or knowledge of this disorder and what it meant to Natalie's future. I immediately began to educate myself through books and networking with experts in the field.
Early on, Natalie had many medical and physical complications. She experienced an intestinal obstruction that required surgery and she had a hole in her heart. I immediately became proactive and began taking Natalie to many therapies. This included speech, physical, and occupational therapy. Through it all, I kept a positive attitude that not only benefited myself, but Natalie as well. I was unaware at the time of therapies that involved equines.
While attending the Broward County Respite Picnic, Natalie and I came in contact with Personal Ponies for the first time. For Natalie, it was love at first sight! She immediately was attracted to the ponies and insisted on staying with the ponies even after she was redirected to some of the other activities. Seeing the effect this therapeutic program was having on my daughter in just one day, I decided to take Natalie for some one-on-one "Pony Time" with Sandra Seiden, the state Florida State Director of Personal Ponies.
My initial goals for Natalie involved gaining a respect for animals, treating them gently and with kindness. Quickly into the program, these goals and a whole lot more were starting to be realized. Natalie's natural curiosity and willingness to learn was only complimented by her special bond with Buttons, her therapeutic equine buddy. Due to his small size and friendly manner, Natalie felt very comfortable and soon insisted on grooming him independently. The Program was having an amazing effect on her! She loved her new found independence, and was able to stay focused on a task for a longer period of time - at home her attention span was incredibly short - and her verbal skills increased. Most importantly, Natalie laughs and smiles the entire session.
I am extremely grateful to such a fantastic program. I hope to continue the sessions for Natalie as she grows older. Natalie and I look forward to spending time with our new friends, human and equine, at Personal Ponies. Thank you Sandra and all the wonderful people in the Personal Ponies Program.
