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HOSPITAL FOR SPECIAL CARE 14 SPECIAL SERVICES Innovative therapies Manes & Motions As the only U.S. hospital that owns an equine therapy pro- gram, Hospital for Special Care has once again explored alter- native ways of helping patients, making a name and reputa- tion for itself in the process. e non-profit Manes & Motions erapeutic Riding Cen- ter, on 13 acres in Middletown, Conn., represents a relaxing way for children and adults to enjoy the outdoors, bond with others and the animals, and advance in certain skills. An in- door arena extends time spent in the saddle. Accredited by the Professional Association of erapeutic Horsemanship International, HSC constantly works to maximize benefits to children and adults who come to the stables at Daniels Farm. People with physical disabilities can work with horses on balance, coordination and building muscle tone in their legs, says Sarah Castellani, program manager. ose with cognitive challenges can work with staff and volunteers on other needs such as communication skills. "ey build a relationship with the horse," said Castellani, "which offers emotional well-being to riders as well." Aquatic Rehabilitation and Fitness Center e Aquatic Rehabilitation and Fitness Center (ARC) is a 27,000-square-foot, indoor, fully accessible facility featur- ing separate pools for community fitness and patient therapy. Since 1999, patients and the general public have been enjoy- ing the water for aquatic therapy and general exercise, says Castellani, who manages the program, with both offerings in one facility. For decades the ARC has seen the benefits the therapy pool offers to those with spinal, hip or knee conditions, for example. A water temperature of 92 degrees eases pain and promotes circulation. With less gravity, "aquatic therapy pro- vides less strain on joints, helps with cardiovascular and offers resistance," she said. And patients don't need to know how to swim to benefit. Strength, coordination and balance are all improved as well, said Castellani. Adaptive Sports Program Over the years, the Adaptive Sports Program, a Paralympic Sport Club, has earned HSC a presence on the national stage. Its athletes' outstanding achievements have set records; they are invited to represent the U.S. at World Championship and Paralympic events. Sports Program Manager Janet Connolly witnesses the em- powerment of those living with disabilities when they are fi- nally able to play sports. "It's usually the first time for them," says Connolly, "they haven't been able to play before." Modi- fied wheelchairs and equipment adjustments — along with a core group of volunteers and partners — have made these new athletes more independent, confident and accomplished. "We even have boccia now," said Connolly, with the pro- gram always looking to expand and bring new opportunities to more athletes. HSC partners with many organizations to offer diverse sports opportunities. Professional wheelchair basketball player Ryan Martin and the Ryan Martin Foundation, teamed up with HSC in 2015, and now offer the state's first organized youth wheelchair basketball team. It complements the Connecticut Spokebenders adult wheelchair basketball program at HSC. Fundraising and corporate partnerships make equipment rentals and other opportunities possible. While always on the lookout for new partners, resources and sports adventures, HSC has a popular free summer pro- gram which has helped it make a name for itself for three de- cades running. For nearly 30 years, HSC has offered the Ivan Lendl Adap- tive Sports Camp to children and teens living with disabilities. "It's a week long, and it's free," says Connolly, with campers coming from New England and beyond, many returning for years to come. Whether in water, on a horse or on a playing field, HSC gives those with disabilities the same chances as everyone else in living life to the fullest extent possible. n