There is something special about horses. Those who love them will tell you a horse is able to sense emotions, and show compassion. Many have found that riding can even have a therapeutic effect, building self-confidence, relieving anxiety, and stimulating muscles.
Tammy Stackhouse says she initially didn't know anything about therapeutic horseback riding. "I've had horses all my life, and a friend of mine has a son who's autistic," she said. The friend had heard about therapeutic riding, and wanted know if Tammy's horses could be good for her son. "I researched it, and fell in love with the program. That's where we began."
She, and "Cowboy Carl" Adams opened Magical Meadows in Warsaw.
This special equine center is dedicated to improving the lives of the adults and children it serves. Through the companionship of the horses at Magical Meadows, veteran Ted Grubbs is finding relief from PTSD. Ashley Renee Buss, blinded by an autoimmune disease in high school, regained confidence in her ability to be self-reliant, and will be starting college soon -- something she didn't think she would be able to do. A young girl with cerebral palsy, a condition effecting muscle coordination, is determined to learn to walk.
This year, Magical Meadows was one of the recipients of donations from Lincoln Driven to Give, a fundraising event held at dealerships around the country. To learn more about the program, and other charitable causes it supports, contact Gurley-Leep Lincoln in South Bend.