Hope on Horseback

I know that I’m currently on neurology, and as such should be talking about the wonderful world of neurons and synapses. Instead, I felt compelled to share about an amazing organization that I was introduced to while still on ambulatory. But don’t worry – I’ll throw a little plug in about neuro at the end!

The place I’d like to introduce you to is called Storybook Farms. A quiet little country paradise, hidden in the outskirts of Opelika/Auburn, Storybook Farms provides a wonderful service to the surrounding communities. To quote their website,

“The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief.  The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing.”

The organization, also known as Hope On Horseback, provides such a wonderful learning experience for all those involved – from the children who truly need this form of counseling and comfort to the volunteers and counselors who put so much time and effort into making this program what it is today.

Not only were there cute and cuddly horses and ponies all around, but there were also goats, dogs, cats, and a miniature Zebu! Who, by the way, was not as thrilled about the idea of receiving a pedicure as we were to administer it.

I felt very blessed and honored to be a part of our ambulatory calls to Storybook Farm, and I hope that by sharing a little bit of their story here, some of you out there might also be as touched and humbled by their mission as I am.

For more information about Storybook Farms, please visit:

http://www.storybookfarm.info/Home.aspx

 

And, as promised, a little info on Small Animal Neurology:

• You know that thing that sits inside your skull, about 6-8 inches above your shoulders? You know, your brain? It's important. Use it.
• Dress nicely for this rotation, but be prepared that what you wear will most likely get dirty. And have a set of scrubs ready in case you go to surgery.
• The technicians are amazing on this rotation! Thank them for all their help, and don't get between Ms. Judy and her coffee.
• Be prepared to talk with your clients, in front of the head clinician, before he speaks with them. Have a game plan, and know which way you'd like the conversation to go. Try not to get side-tracked. ;)
• There are a lot of ward cats that hang around in this rotation. Be sure to learn what their names are so you don't accidently lock one of the ortho cats up with them.
• Good reading topics for this rotation: seizures, intervertebral disc disease, peripheral neuropathies. Brushing up on advanced imaging would also be a good idea.
• And while on the topic of advanced imaging - Be prepared for an interrogation at the MRI doors, not too unlike an experience with airport security. NO METAL OBJECTS enter the MRI room (exceptions - emergency drug syringes inside the clipboard box, a stick pen - not a clicky pen, metal on/in your shoes, metal underwire in a bra, esophageal stethoscope, digital watch). There are ear-muffs available to wear once inside, I highly recommend you use them. :)

Up next - Large Animal Anesthesia. For now, Kristin and I are about to head out for a run and then end up at Chill - a delicious, self-serve, frozen yogurt heaven. Be jealous.

War Eagle,

Jess