Horse Power for Heroes helps Veterans overcome the debilitating effects of mental health issues such as PTSD and traumatic brain injury. As they learn to communicate with their horses, Veterans acquire relationship building skills that support reintegration into family and civilian life. Veterans become more confident in interpersonal relationships and develop skills to deal with common stumbling blocks in human relationships.
Feedback from one of our veterans
When one of our veterans who has PTSD first started classes at Triple H, her goal was to stay for an entire meal after the lesson. After the first class, she was able to sit with the group for five minutes and according to her instructor, she looked like she was “going to jump out of her skin.” Today, week number five, she stayed for the entire meal, engaged in conversation, laughed, and joked…clearly having a good time. Here is what this veteran wrote in her progress notes for her self-evaluation:
“I was in a lot of pain but this experience with the horses, staff, and bonding experience was fantastic. I love the smell of the horses and the smell gets me through the week. When I have been stressed or have had recurring experiences (really bad), I conjure the smell of Hannah and it reminds me of how simple life is. This experience has probably saved my family and possibly my life. I have the horses to look forward to each week. Thanks!”
“I was in a lot of pain but this experience with the horses, staff, and bonding experience was fantastic. I love the smell of the horses and the smell gets me through the week. When I have been stressed or have had recurring experiences (really bad), I conjure the smell of Hannah and it reminds me of how simple life is. This experience has probably saved my family and possibly my life. I have the horses to look forward to each week. Thanks!”
