Horse therapy for Aviad

Aviad, 31, and his mother, Sara, need our help.

Aviad has been diagnosed with severe autism. He is low-functioning and displays highly challenging behavior. He can be destructive and obsessive, and has a tendency to run away. Aviad is unaware of danger and needs 24-hour supervision.

Sara, 67, is divorced from Aviad’s father. Sara hasn’t worked outside of the home for years since she is Aviad’s primary caretaker.
The two survive on a monthly government stipend and Aviad’s disability allowance.

Since he graduated high school, Aviad has lived at home. Though Sara has tried to integrate him into various boarding schools and special needs programs, he has never succeeded in adapting. In addition, he hasn’t been able to hold down a job.

Recently, Aviad began a program at a day center for special needs adults. His integration has been very gradual, and he has a shadow that follows him. Sara is hoping that this program will give Aviad a framework for his day and allow her some time to breathe. Unfortunately, he still has many free hours in his week.

Over the years, Aviad has done a few sessions of horse therapy. Riding seems to be the one activity that allows him to relax and enjoy.

Sara, who is completely devoted to her son, is under tremendous financial strain. Between Aviad’s various therapies and medications, and their monthly living expenses, she has no room for “extras”.

If Sara could get help paying for additional hours of horse therapy, there is no question that Aviad’s quality of life would improve drastically.