– Mary Garrison/Tribune-Courier || (Above) Zane Bedwell and his father John watch with interest as riders take the obstacle course at H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. Boots and Bridles competion.

Horsin' Around

H.O.R.S.E.S. Inc.
prepares for
holiday bazaar

By Mary Garrison
Tribune-Courier Features Editor
mgarrison@tribunecourier.com

MARSHALL COUNTY – In 2005, Joy and Bill Winebarger gave a wonderful gift to families of disabled children and young adults when they established H.O.R.S.E.S. Inc. [Helping Others Reach Success using Equine Services] theraputic horseback riding group.

“I saw a television program about theraputic riding, and I just kept thinking about how I’d never be able to do it,” Joy said. “Well, I let it stew, and then I read an article and saw another program, and I realized it was what I was just meant to do.”

Families like the Bedwells have never been more grateful. Zane Bedwell, 6, of Hardin, suffers from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a severe connective tissue disorder that causes joint instability and pain.

“It affects anywhere he has collagen in his body,” said Christi Bedwell, Zane’s mother. “Even his internal organs.”

In addition to the Ehlars, Zane also has Hypotonic Cerebral Palsy that drastically affects his balance, muscle tone and development.

He faces frequent respiratory problems associated with the disorder, as well, such as aspirations and recurrent pneumonia.

From the time he was just two-months-old, Zane has undergone multiple therapies.

“Occupational, physical, speech and feeding,” Christi said. “His progress in these has been a slow-climb.”
However, Christi said Zane began working with H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. in April, and the change has been a welcome one.

“The confidence and pride he gained were immediate,” Christi said. “This is something new and exciting he loves. The growth in his ability to pick it up and really achieve — he’s just so proud. At that age, that’s the most important thing.”

Christi said the staff works with Zane in many ways — both mental and physical — from obstacle course exercises and shooting baskets to turning different directions and using numbers and letters.

“He’s really improved his core muscle strength and balance,” Christi said. “He’s also gained a lot in his social skills and trusting others.

“They always know just what he needs,” Christi added. “Some days, he’ll come in and do great, and others he can barely hold himself up. They’ll bring in the huggie animal to help support him and keep working.”

Christi said the program has been one the whole family can be involved in, as well. Corrin, Zane’s older sister has expressed a desire to volunteer once she’s old enough, and John, Zane’s father has had the opportunity to assist in a way he’s never previously been able.

“Children are inspirations,” Christi said. “Joy and Bill realize that. They don’t look at a child and see a disability, they see a possiblity.”

H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. is now 25 riders strong, with students from all over the region. Recently, the group held its Boots and Bridles riding competition, and next week, they will hold their second annual holiday bazaar.

“We’ve got vendors and crafters coming to set up,” Joy said. “We’re going to have some face-painting and arts activities. We just invite the public to come in, shop and have a good time.”

The event will take place next weekend, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15 at the National Guard Armory in Murray. All proceeds from booth set-up go to benefit H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc.

For more information about the bazaar or H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. visit www.horsesinc.org or call 252-0466.