Clarence Banks, 5 years old
Diagnosis: Autism
Years at AWH
5 months
Favorite Horse
Jackpot
3 Words to Describe AWH
- Transformative – Clarence’s equine therapy journey has sparked profound growth, fostering newfound confidence, communication, and sensory integration.
- Empowering – His ability to identify horses, request to ride, and eagerly anticipate each session highlights the independence and joy this experience brings him.
- Enriching – Every ride strengthens his coordination, engagement, and overall well-being, making each session a meaningful step in his development.
Benefits of AWH
We continue to witness the remarkable and transformational impact that Equine Therapy has on Clarence. Each session unfolds as a journey of growth, resilience, and newfound independence, and it has been nothing short of inspiring to behold.
One of the most profound milestones we have celebrated is Clarence’s ability to identify horses and independently request to ride using his AAC device—a breakthrough in his communication and self-advocacy. His anticipation for each session is so immense that he places his riding bag and boots by the door daily, a testament to his deep connection with this experience. The sheer joy on his face when he returns to “Jackpot” speaks volumes about the significance of this therapy in his life.
Clarence’s adaptation to horseback riding has been seamless and intuitive, a reflection of both his own inner strength and the exceptional instruction and support provided by AHEAD With Horses. With each ride, we witness the strengthening of his core stability, motor coordination, and sensory regulation—all of which contribute to his overall development and well-being. The engagement and expertise of the team create a space where progress is not only possible but inevitable.
Equine Therapy is not simply an activity for Clarence; it is a catalyst for transformation. It has granted him a new level of confidence, autonomy, and joy—gifts that extend far beyond the saddle. Our family holds deep appreciation and reverence for the work being done at AHEAD With Horses, and we are eternally grateful for the opportunities it continues to provide.
We look forward to the road ahead, knowing that this experience will shape Clarence’s journey in ways we are only beginning to understand.
As Clarence continues to thrive in this space, we are reminded of the words of Winston Churchill:
“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
For Clarence, this experience is more than just therapy—it is a path to connection, progress, and boundless potential.
