Connor the research study participant

Since the end of February Connor has been participating in an NIH-funded research study through Children's Hospital and the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center that is looking at the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding in children with autism. The study is looking at whether or not actual contact with horses is necessary for any behavior changes, and thus there were two study groups: the horseback riding group, and the barn activity group. Connor was randomized into the barn activity group, and spent 10 weeks learning about horses (doing activities, games, lots of fun stuff, but no actual horse contact). The group was well done and he enjoyed it, but he completely loved the experience of two therapeutic horseback riding lessons, his reward for participating in the study.

His horse was a beautiful Bay named Pete. The horses, staff and volunteers at the CTRC are all thoroughly screened and trained and are simply amazing. What a wonderful experience. Connor was able to demonstrate such commands as "Ride on" and "whoa," navigate an obstacle course, and ride outside on a sensory trail. He loved every minute of it.

He did have a SEVERE asthmatic reaction the evening after the first session that seemed to actually cause his throat to close in addition to tight chest and wheezing. I was THIS CLOSE to calling 9-1-1, but got it turned around with benadryl, nebulizer and nasal spray. I gave him benadryl BEFORE his second session, and he did much better, thank heavens.

All in all, an interesting experience for Connor, and one I am sure he will always remember.