Seven-year-old Neil has been participating in physical therapy using hippotherapy as a client at The Shea Center for a year and a half.

Neil was born weighing 1.5 pounds and experienced severe bilateral brain bleeds as well as the development of cysts, which led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy with developmental delays and hearing and vision loss. Neil also experiences difficulties swallowing, but his mother, Kelsi, meets his needs by preparing a plant-based diet and offering him small amounts of water throughout the day.

However, none of that slows Neil down! He and his brother Luke, age 4, are great pals, very friendly, and talk with everyone they meet. Neil is highly energetic and has fun chasing his brother. Kelsi’s most significant concern is that Neil might fall on his head and do further damage as he has a shunt to drain excess fluid in his brain and cochlear implants for hearing.

Since beginning at Shea, Kelsi reports that Neil’s legs are not nearly as tight as they were. Straddling the horse makes Neil more limber, his core strength has improved, and he doesn’t fall as often as he previously did. Neil’s surgeon, who predicted that Neil would need two surgeries, now says with enhanced core strength, hip motion, and improved walking, he doesn’t need further surgery. Neil is learning to be cautious and correct himself if he becomes off balance.

Physical therapist Matt Mitchell comments, “Neil is such a joy to work with. He works so hard in therapy, getting stronger every day. He always comes with a song to sing and a smile on his face!”

Homeschooling has provided Neil with the attention he needs more than traditional school. Kelsi says, “Neil needs one-on-one reading and training. Now, he reads at the same level as his peers, and the library is his favorite place to visit. He always has a list of books he wants to check out.” Neil also loves music and attends music classes, where he can be found in the front trying to conduct the class.

Riding at Shea is a highlight of Neil’s week. He gets on the horse, saying, “I am going to be brave,” and then reports to his mom when he trots, “I went really fast!”