By: Michael Reel
Something For Sunday
Our introduction to “The Horse Who Loves Hats” came in 2016 with the publishing of the children’s picture book with the same title. The book shares the story of how Stardust evolves from a racehorse to a therapy horse providing comfort and friendship to children of all ages and abilities.
“Over the years of owning horses, I have come to observe that horses treat everyone the same,” said author Nancy Corradini. “They are soulful creatures who can sense what you are feeling and respond in kind. One of the blessings of therapy horses is their ability to treat each person, regardless of their abilities or mental health, in the same way. They are the great equalizer and by example, show us how to treat one another.”
We learned this past week that Sweetie, the beloved mare who through the years brought so much excitement, joy, love, and healing passed away.
“My magnificent mare has passed away, suddenly, leaving me shocked and bewildered. Sweetie (aka Confectionist, The Horse Who Loves Hats) touched many lives with her antics, horse therapy sessions with children and veterans and especially me. Free of body her spirit soars leaving me with these great precious memories.
“Somewhere… somewhere in time’s own space, there must be some sweet pastured space where creeks sing on, and tall trees grow, Some paradise where horses go. For by the love that guides my pen, I know great horses live again.” — Stanley Harrison
Corradini has been around race horses for years and when she looked for a “forever” home for her husband’s horse that was no longer racing; she discovered the world of therapy animals. She observed horses interacting with children on all levels on the autism spectrum as well as healthy children. Their ability to treat children with autism the same as others provided a sense of comfort and inclusion for all of the children which translated to the children and adults learning to interact with each other on a level playing field.
“Thanks to the Veterans for your service. Sweetie is pictured above with a few of her Veteran friends. One each from the Iraq War, Korean War and Desert Storm. Our distinguished Veterans are pictured with “The Horse Who Loves Hats.”
“As a retired research librarian, I was drawn to learning more about how therapy horses work and the opportunity that therapy provided horses no longer on the race track,” said Corradini. “I wanted to create a story that not only showed the benefits of inclusion and equality but also the calming, loving nature of horses towards children.”
“I’m excited to discover that teachers are developing discussion groups within their classes using “The Horse Who Loves Hats” to demonstrate the equality of all children and that children with a variety of challenges don’t need to be treated differently,” said Corradini. “My hope is that through a more inclusive approach to relationships, it will distract children from bullying and lead them to understanding children with autism want to be treated just like everyone else.”
Thank you Nancy for sharing Sweetie with us all.
