Michael's Story
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Michael Reglinski is 39 years old and has a significant degree of learning disability; he has no meaningful speech, he is incapable of independent living and requires lifelong support.
Before Michael started his RDA sessions he maintained a head down demeanour, he was uncommunicative, wouldn’t give eye contact and wouldn’t walk without holding on to someone. Michael began his weekly sessions with RDA in 2011 and, surprisingly quickly became confident in the company of the RDA staff and helpers and was very relaxed in close proximity to the horses. Soon Michael’s obvious enjoyment and the benefits arising from the riding led to his current two sessions per week. The majority of the classes are held at the indoor arena but in the summer he can enjoy outdoor lessons. The lessons and the exercises, such as lifting, carrying and placing flags in specific locations, have done wonders for Michael’s understanding and response to verbal commands, not to mention the improvement in posture and balance. Michael’s balance, posture and confidence have improved to such an extent that he will now walk, head up, with a companion but without needing to hold tight |
In Michael's dads own words
“Michael is witness to the benefits arising from an RDA programme. He shows more awareness of people, he is more sociable, and he responds more readily to simple requests. Thank you RDA from Michael for improving his life and the life of his carers” Back to case studies |
