Naomi is a joyful 3-year-old preschooler who has been participating in physical therapy using hippotherapy at The Shea Center for a year. Born with vocal cord paralysis, Naomi was also later diagnosed with Poland syndrome, a condition marked by missing muscles and ligaments on her right side. Although mostly non-verbal, Naomi has learned to push air through her vocal cords and can now say about 25 words.

Naomi’s physical therapist, Randi Shannahan, says, “Naomi has made huge strides in the last year, especially in her cardiopulmonary endurance, which has been a main focus as her parents and medical team are preparing for her next airway surgery. Having this foundational strength is very important and sets her up for continued gross motor success in the future.”

When Naomi started riding at Shea, she was just beginning to walk. Now, her walking has significantly improved, along with her balance, coordination, and proprioception. Strengthening her core has also benefited her respiratory health, giving better support to her diaphragm and lungs. Her posture has improved, and she now sits tall and straight on the horse.

In addition to hippotherapy, Naomi participates in physical, occupational, speech, swallowing, and fine motor skill therapies. Riding a horse makes therapy more fun, helping her forget the hard work she’s doing. Her mother, Aubrey, says Naomi does a little happy dance whenever it’s time to ride. Though riding in various positions requires a lot of strength, Naomi remains relaxed and enjoys learning new poses on the horse. She’s always smiling, showing how much she loves it.

Aubrey shares, “The therapists truly care about their clients. They’re always positive and encourage the riders to believe in themselves. We appreciate the cheerful atmosphere and the process of progress at The Shea Center.”