Your Dollars in Action
Riding High
Jaylin - Abington, Massachusetts
Jaylin, a five-year-old girl with Down syndrome, may be smaller and weaker than most of her peers, but when she gets on a horse for her hippotherapy sessions, she stands head and shoulders above everyone else—and is full of confidence.
That confidence is newfound, says her mom, Jessica. In addition to Down syndrome, Jaylin was born with a heart defect (that was corrected at 6 months), gets tired more easily than most children her age, and has difficulty hearing and communicating. Jaylin has always been a very happy, compassionate child who loves animals, but her physical limitations also limited her socially, her mom explains.
Jessica heard about the benefits of hippotherapy—which is using the rhythmic movements of horseback riding for physical therapy—and thought it would benefit Jaylin. But the cost was just too high. When the instructor told Jessica about UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation and its grants, she eagerly applied.
"I'll never forget the day the acceptance letter arrived," said Jessica. Not only were they thrilled that Jaylin would get her therapy, but the package contained a teddy bear that Jaylin adores—and sleeps with every night.
Since starting hippotherapy, Jaylin has made great strides: Her balance, strength, and coordination have improved, she's speaking more and pronouncing words more clearly (especially "go, horse!"), and she's much more open to trying new things.
She's also gained some extra respect from her three younger sisters, who are now seeing her meet challenges—and succeed.
"We are very thankful to the Foundation for the grant," says Jessica. "It's a huge relief to know that Jaylin is getting the therapy she needs, and the bills are not overshadowing it all."