Giddy-Up-Go Therapy

Joseph Graham’s small hand stroked the horse’s shiny black coat as he squirmed with anticipation in its saddle.

This sunny afternoon was his day to ride a horse at Huntington Beach’s Therapeutic Riding Center, an experience he looked forward to the entire week.

Indeed, all of the equestrian center’s students were excited to ride in what has become an hourlong respite from the emotional weight of their disabilities.

Joseph, who is 5 years old and has cerebral palsy, is only one of many children who have benefited from the center.

“I’ve seen some real miracles here,” volunteer Ralph Marsh said as he helped Joseph don a riding helmet and mount the horse. “Kids come here afraid and unable to ride a horse, and they transform into a confident, competent rider.”

The Therapeutic Riding Center, located within the Huntington Beach Central Park Equestrian Center, was founded in 1992 by David Allen, who was a volunteer in a similar program in San Juan Capistrano.

The center, which has grown from serving from about four students to more than 20, serves people with disabilities. Its clients include people with mild to severe handicaps including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and brain damage. Riders range from toddlers to senior citizens, although most tend to be younger.

Instructor John Hill says he has seen some amazing transformations while working at the center.

He recalled one youngster who “would curl up into the fetal position and would not open her eyes when she first arrived. Within a few weeks she would be laughing with excitement to get up on the horse.”

Riding improves muscle coordination and strengthens the posture, Hill said. He added that one child who was in a wheelchair when he began riding later was able to walk after strengthening his leg muscles through the lessons.

The center funds itself through its $60-per-month riding fees, a silent auction and private contributions. Some of the center’s donors include the Kiwanis Club, the Boeing Employees Assn. and the Friends and Neighbors of Seacliff Neighborhood.

Although money has been tight, the center’s volunteers say the program will continue to operate and flourish through their enthusiasm and commitment to improving the lives of the disabled.

“I love it here. I’ll be around as long as the program lasts,” said Eileen Gray, a volunteer at the center.

Andrew Wainer can be reached at (714) 965-7172, Ext. 15.