MAKANDA, Ill. — Tootsie, Rocky, Whisper and Snowflake at Giant City Stables are saddled up to help southern Illinois veterans cope with post-traumatic stress syndrome and other well-being issues.

Thanks to a unique partnership between the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Marion VA Medical Center, a two-year pilot program started last month which offers equine therapy at the stable at Giant City State Park, near Carbondale.

Called the Equine Therapy Program, the service is operated by not-for-profit Specialized Equine Services (SES), which also provides similar services at Giant City State Park with more than 25 horses, ponies and mules. The Marion VA serves vets in southern Illinois, southwestern Indiana and northwestern Kentucky.

The value of working with horses should not be underestimated, said Patricia Nardini, president and co-founder of SES.

“The healing power of horses is so incredible and their emotional intelligence is beyond our imagination. It is our goal to reach more people who would benefit from working and interacting with our horses like Rocky and Snowflake,” Nardini explained.

Funding for veteran therapy sessions will be provided by the Marion VA Medical Center, while the DNR will provide up to $2,000 a year to pay for SES’ annual training required to remain certified in equine therapy for vets as well as other individuals living with psychological, neurological and physical conditions.

In addition, the Illinois Conservation Foundation will provide up to $2,000 a year to fund SES’ travel and lodging costs for associated training.

“The staff at Giant City Stables is exceptional, and privacy and personal accommodations are of the utmost importance. I personally recommend to every veteran to at least give it a shot,” said former U.S. Army Sgt. Aaron Gajowiak.

DNR Director Marc Miller sees the program as a win-win situation. “Our state parks are an integral part of the Illinois communities they serve, providing recreational opportunities, fostering an ethic of stewardship and educating the public about our natural resources,” he said.

“We’re also dedicated to ensuring our programs and services allow everyone to benefit, including veterans and persons with disabilities.”

Likewise, VA administrators and staff are looking forward to the prospects of the new therapies for their patients. “We are thankful to share this innovative program,” said Marion VA Medical Center Director Don Hutson.

“The ability to offer alternative therapies, including Equine Therapy, is encouraged by VA. My expectations are high for veteran recovery utilizing this program.”

Contact www.SESTherapeuticRiding.com for more information.