Therapeutic horsemanship organization helps patients with various challenges

It’s not been a good year for horse racing.

From several horse deaths to the controversial reversal of the Kentucky Derby outcome, horses have been in the national spotlight for bad reasons.

Not so, locally.

In the hours before the big race, the Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship organization held a horse show, giving riders an opportunity to show off their riding skills for friends and families.

MVTH is a not-for-profit organization providing horse-riding therapy to children and adults living with disabilities. The horses help patients improve strength, coordination, flexibility and balance, all while working on communication skills and developing bonds with horses.

It’s one of the many feel-good organizations in our area. It serves several dozen youth and adults in Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois, who are managing emotional, behavioral, physical and/or cognitive challenges, according to a recent story by business editor Jay Wolz. Horses just have a way with people.

So while other horses across the country are making the headlines, the equestrians near Oak Ridge are making a big difference in the lives of people who struggle. Thanks goes to the horses and volunteers who work so well with these vulnerable people with challenges.