Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

Patrick is almost three years old and has been visiting EST Manchester for over a year. Here, he receives donkey riding therapy and visiting is the highlight of his week. In fact, Patrick loves donkeys so much that his second word was "donkey"!

Two years ago, Patrick's world was completely different. He was in a foster home waiting to be adopted by a loving family. Fortunately for him, 36 year old Rachel Whibley and her husband Daniel came along.

Previously, Rachel had conceived a little boy called Joseph through successful IVF treatment and had wanted to complete her family by giving him a brother or sister; but after 15 failed attempts at IVF treatment, adoption was their only alternative.

After a lengthy process Rachel and her husband were united with Patrick. Rachel said: "I fell in love with Patrick straight away - it was love at first sight and one of the best decisions we had ever made."

Patrick has Down's Syndrome which means he has delayed growth skills and may have learning difficulties in the future. Rachel decided to attend a local Down's Syndrome support group to meet other parents and children in similar situations and this is where she heard about the work of EST.

Our riding instructor at EST Manchester has been following Patrick's progress. She says: "By riding donkeys Patrick's muscle tone has improved considerably. Just by being able to sit on a moving donkey and to use his arms and legs has improved important muscle groups."

Rachel continues: "I am so happy that I can bring Patrick to the centre each week. I feel like my family is complete and the donkeys comfort us. It's wonderful for the children to be able to ride the donkeys and to play outside. Patrick loves to ride Mary, she's his favourite donkey and he loves to cuddle her. It's a real social venue for parents too. We can get together and have a chat over a cup of tea and have a piece of delicious flapjack! The staff are professional and friendly in a very happy environment."

Patrick also comes along with his family to the centre once a month for the Saturday Club. This enables his brother Joseph to ride the donkeys with him and join in the fun too. All the facilities are free of charge to Patrick and his family.

Donkeys are of great benefit to children such as Patrick in many ways, from riding and driving, to touching, cuddling and talking to them. The donkeys will accept any kind of attention and seem to understand the needs of the children. The donkeys have proved time and time again that they are very special individuals as are the children who come to the centres.