Horse Power for Life is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in Chester County that provides a FREE therapeutic horsemanship program to individuals of any age diagnosed with cancer, cancer survivors and those who have lost family members to this terrible disease. Family members can also participate.Our goal is to help families battling cancer focus on their minds, bodies and souls rather than the d
isease while learning about horses in an atmosphere of professionalism, teamwork and fun. Our 90 minute sessions provide professional horsemanship instruction for men, women, and children. Led by certified therapeutic instructor, Becca Smith, the program guides students through all aspects of horse care, from basic grooming to riding. Our program is customized to patients based on their age, skills, interest, health, and physical ability. Studies have shown that high quality of life is a major contributor in survivability rates among cancer patients. Furthermore, equine therapy experts have found that, horses are uniquely sensitive, providing a non-verbal vehicle for people to access their emotions, which can improve responsiveness to cancer treatment and extend survivorship. Horse Power for Life seeks to support cancer patients’ need for improved quality of life through a comprehensive horsemanship program designed to focus attention away from the disease in a fun and healthy activity outside of the cancer-treatment setting. The healing bond between horse and human has led to the establishment of similar organizations in other states including New Jersey, Ohio, Michigan and California. In responding to the needs of families in our region, Horse Power for Life is the first and only program of its kind in the state of Pennsylvania.
