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Friday, November 06, 2009 |
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We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
Jeremy came to Heart’s Desire at 24 years of age exhibiting difficulty with walking, balance, vision and with a partial right arm amputation below the elbow. As Jeremy shared his story with us, he immediately captured our hearts. Jeremy had been shot in the head at the age of 17 by an angry father over his daughter. Even though he lived, he suffered severe brain damage and while in the trauma center an infected IV site that involved the bone caused the need for his partial amputation. Jeremy’s testimony of how God had used this to change his life was heart warming and encouraging. Instead of anger, there was forgiveness, instead of self pity, there was hope.
Jeremy had ridden horses before his accident and wanted to once again participate in an activity that he had enjoyed and that made him feel whole again. He lacked social interaction and had very little to do that occupied his time outside of therapy. Jeremy was a large young man with partial paralysis, so we had to plan our sessions with him to include a special horse (our gentle Belgian Draft named Hans) and a talented team of volunteers to take on this special mission.
Jeremy was extremely afraid and apprehensive about trusting strangers with his safety. He had difficulty mounting, but with much training and perseverance he was finally able to get on and off his horse from a mounting block with minimal assistance. His fear kept him stiff and tense. He had to learn to breathe and we did many relaxation exercises with him in order to help him be comfortable while riding. Finally, he began to trust. He started breathing, his legs stopped trembling and his sense of humor illuminated our sessions together as he began to enjoy his renewed ability!
Jeremy began to use the reins, no longer needing to “grip” the saddle horn with his good hand. He sat tall and balanced. He built a trusting relationship with the horse, the volunteers and the staff. We began to long-line Hans and give Jeremy more control. His physical and emotional progress was amazing. He had restored hope, confidence and pride (putting pictures of his rides on his webpage).
Jeremy began to share with other programs, churches and children about his life and his testimony. He explained how sin can have life long affects, but how God’s mercy and grace make life worth living.
A life touched by tragedy but lived in triumph!
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