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Special Saddle Lets The Disabled Ride Horses
In her 27 years of work as a riding instructor, Karen Szymas was always saddened that severely disabled people were unable to experience the benefits of horseback riding. But that's all changed thanks to her new Independence Saddle that came onto the market last year.
Szymas' patent pending "Independence Saddle"
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Special Saddle Lets The Disabled Ride Horses LIVESTOCK Horses/Mules 30-1-3 In her 27 years of work as a riding instructor, Karen Szymas was always saddened that severely disabled people were unable to experience the benefits of horseback riding. But that's all changed thanks to her new Independence Saddle that came onto the market last year.
Szymas' patent pending "Independence Saddle" allows people with virtually any level of disability to ride.
The Independence Saddle consists of a modified high-quality Australian stock saddle fitted with a combination of special attachments for various disabilities.
"In the past, only the moderately disabled have been able to experience the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding. The ones who could possibly benefit the most û often students in wheelchairs û were missing out," says Karen's father, James Szymas, who proudly wrote to tell FARM SHOW about his daughter's accomplishment.
The saddle attachments (called prompts) independently support individuals with disabilities astride a horse.
"Since each person's situation can be different, the rider is first evaluated to determine which prompts are needed," says Szymas, who works as a riding instructor for individuals with impairments.
"Head and back supports provide head and trunk control. Adjustable forearm supports stabilize the arm and shoulder girdle, allowing the rider to lean slightly forward into a functional sitting position. Hip supports stabilize the pelvic girdle," she says. "In addition to providing physical, occupational, and psychological therapeutic opportunities, this system provides each rider an immeasurable sense of success and self-fulfillment, maximizing their quality of life."
Szymas and partner, Ken Lampe, with their company, "Independent Strides," offer four different grades of high-quality saddles as the foundation. Prices vary according to each person's needs, but currently range from $5,695 to $8,995.
Also, an extremely durable sidesaddle, for those who experience hypertension in their legs, will soon be available.
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Independent Strides, Karen Szymas, Box 768, Grand Haven, Mich. 49417 (ph 866 630-1901 or 616 296-9301; karenszymas@gmail.com; www.independentstrides.com).
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