Inside an expansive indoor arena amidst a 35 acre farm in North Andover, a Halflinger pony named Squash and four other horses help veterans heal the invisible wounds of combat.
The horses are part of Windrush Farm’s “Horsemanship for Heroes,” a program that helps returning veterans suffering from emotional or physical disabilities due to combat through working with horses.
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Today’s group of 12 comes from the Wounded Warriors’ Project Odyssey. Project Odyssey helps soldiers overcome combat stress through outdoor, rehabilitative retreats that encourage a connection with nature, peers, staff and counselors.
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Joined by more than the same amount of enthusiastic volunteers, the warriors participated in unmounted activities. These involved the veterans trying to “read” the horses based on their actions and behaviors; hands-on work of brushing and grooming; and active involvement including leading and lunging.
An Air Force veteran, Donald O’Hagan, has been riding at Windrush Farm since 2008. “It’s an opportunity for us to focus on and look forward to something outside of regular life”, says O’Hagan. “It takes the focus off of everyday problems.” Today, Donald is volunteering his time to assist his fellow soldiers on their journey at the farm.
The camaraderie was evident from the moment the group set foot on the property. There were chuckles and smiles as each warrior enjoyed their time on the farm. Not only were they improving their self-esteem and confidence, but were also experiencing a connection with the nature and their peers.
“The most meaningful comments I heard throughout the day were the warriors looking for therapeutic centers near their hometowns in PA, Utah, Texas so that they could continue working with horses once they return.” says Jenna Turcotte, Windrush Farm program director.
“Working with the Wounded Warrior Project at Windrush Farm is an excellent example of how horses can heal people,” says Rachel Bernstein, an instructor in training. “This farm is a place you can come to be yourself. The horse doesn't care about your past; it only cares about you now, which helps a person stay present in the moment. It was a wonderful experience seeing these soldiers bond with horses, learning the value of horsemanship, and having a great time laughing at Windrush Farm.”
About Windrush Farm:
Windrush Farm is a nonprofit horse farm specializing in teaching physically, emotionally, and learning disabled children and adults to ride and work with horses. Each year, Windrush provides an array of educational services and therapeutic activities to more than 1,770 children and adults – and their families. Founded in 1964, Windrush Farm was one of the first programs to provide equine assisted activities and therapies in the US and is celebrating 50 years of service. For more information about Windrush Farm, please email Jennifer Belanger at jenny.belanger@windrushfarm.org or visit www.windrushfarm.org.
