Paso Peruvian Horses - Bravo! Equitherapy
The gentle demeanor and effortless gait of the Peruvian horse lend a healing aspect to individuals who are unable to succeed at alternative forms of exercise. For several years, both children and adults have benefited from recreational horse therapy at Bellissima Farms. The "horse helping man" approach works to improve muscle tone, balance, flexibility and strength as well as patience, confidence and self-esteem. Under the direction of Susie Opalinski-Levy and co-directed by Ted Opalinski, BRAVO! toils to globally enhance the physical, mental & emotional well being of "special athletes."
Bravo! sessions are private and by appointment only.
Being a BRAVO volunteer I enjoy working with the kids. Week to week you see these kids improve in areas such as self esteem and most of all confidence in a sense that they can do it. They enjoy their success and we enjoy watching them be successful.
-- Melinda C. - Scottsdale, AZ
Bravo is our favorite activity. My daughter, Taylor, who has CP, loves riding the horses. Bravo has a great staff and volunteers who are very loving and caring. Taylor has gained confidence, self-esteem, coordination, balance and an extended attention span. I highly recommend this program - you'll love it.
-- Pam T. - Very Satisfied Parent
Thought I'd share these pictures with you to say "thanks so much for all your help with my stroke rehab program." This is my second jumping lesson (my third was today). Not too shabby for someone who could barely walk a year ago, huh? I realize you probably don't advocate this jumping stuff. However, I've been fascinated with it since I rode in the Tally-ho wagon and followed a foxhunt in which my 8-year-old nephew was riding. That was close to 15 years ago. So you see, it has taken me that long to get this far, and I may not have gotten here at all without you and the Bravo! Program. By the way, it's hard to tell in the picture, but that is a Bravo! T-shirt I'm wearing, and my mini-stuffed Bravo! Horse remembrance has a place of honor on my bedroom chest of drawers. Again, thanks so much for your help - especially those wonderful folks who had the dubious honor of hanging onto my legs so I didn't fall off.
-- Paula S. - Former Bravo! member
I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate you, Roe, and your gracious volunteers. You have no idea how much Bravo means to Shannon. She talks about riding horses just about every day. We are so thankful for her to have this opportunity. There are not too man things that Shannon can do successfully. Even when she is having a difficult day, she can still ride and feel good about herself. You have always been so kind and patient with the kids. I know that someday God will reward you for it. Thanks again for all you do. God bless you.
-- Stan, Tammy, and Shannon
