After going to their annual fundraiser (25th anniversary,) yesterday and seeing the owner, Ann Kolchan and her daughter, Leslie, I feel compelled to write this review. B.O.K. provides horseback riding for kids with cerebral palsy and essentially gait, balance, motor, and other neurological issues.
I was born with mild cerebral palsy which effected my gait and took part in the program once a week for six months to a year 23 to 24 years ago at the age of 6 or 7. Though mild, my cp would cause me to fall if I was pushed even the slightest and my walking was kind of on my tiptoes. So, along with physical therapy and this once a week for six for the amount of time I mentioned, I was able to walk close to normal and be more physically agile. Anyhow, at the time, they held sessions with one or two kids at a time in a little area at their house which is one large plot of land; P.J. and Zeek were who I rode, telling them to stop and go and so forth with very kind and caring instructors. These were held years ago among plenty of trees on an assuming residential street, tranquil to say it in anut shell.! I even remember a Christmas play they put on for us and all the young volunteers and the fundraisers, only having attended one other one 18 years ago; in subsequent years after being done, it was fun to go back a few times with my friend who has more serious cp and see the staff.
On a positive note, the program has doubled to six or seven horses over the years which means help for more kids; sessions are now at their new facility on Sandhill Road in Woodside. I am just glad to see such a wonderful program standing the test of time. Unbelievably, P.J. retired just two years ago.! Amazing.! Unfortunately, Zeek died, but other horses who have been retired are living out their days in wonderful places like Colorado and Pasorobos where Leslie lives. Kudos and a big thanks to all of you guys for all you did for me. It all proved to be successful right up to now for me at age 30; here is to many more years of service.! Keep up the good work guys.! read more