GRANITE FALLS, Minn. — Western Minnesota has no shortage of horse farms and even rodeo stars. But at "Hands and Hooves" at Lee Mar Ranch, the animals are used for something perhaps even more important.
Each year, the Western Fest rodeo at Lee Mar Ranch draws quite a crowd. But when the calf roping is done, and the crowds have left the ranch takes on a different tone. One centered on hands, hooves, and healing.
"Goose bumps. All the time, yeah. It's so fun, it's so rewarding," said Terry Irons, therapeutic riding coordinator.
People of all ages with physical, emotional, and mental challenges build strength and confidence while riding a horse. "Since being a single mom I'm trying to find a way to walk through grief with your kids," said Tracy Wilson. A year ago, Wilson's fiancé passed away.
Not knowing how to help her kids, she discovered Lee Mar's horse therapy. And she's glad she did. "It's therapy for all of us honestly.
And I'm really grateful for this program," said Wilson. Tenley Birhanzl, 12, is here for a different reason. "She's non-verbal.
We watch her eyes for communication," said Emily Evenson, Birhanzl's grandma. Birhanzl has Angelman Syndrome which causes developmental disabilities. When she first began coming to the ranch with her grandma, it took five people to help her.
But not anymore. Birhanzl is building strength with a smile. "It's a blessing to be able to work with Tenley and watch all the development," said Evenson.
"It's just been a Godsend all these.