The Irish Guide Dogs and Liskinette Equine Therapy Centre

Hi my name's Sandra and I'm Ryan's mum. Today Ryan and his trusty assistance dog Keeva will complete the woman's mini marathon in aid of 2 charities who are very close to our hearts; The Irish Guide Dogs and Liskinette equine therapy centre.

Ryan (8) and his younger brother Aaran (6) are both Autistic. 12 months ago we received his assistance dog Keeva from the Irish Guide Dogs. Keeva has changed all our lives for the better. Before Keeva came along if we wanted to go anywhere we needed to bring a wheelchair for Ryan. This was for 2 reasons. Firstly he has poor muscle tone and tires easily and secondly it was to keep him safe. Ryan was known to either lie down in the floor of busy shopping centres and refuse to get up again if he became over whelmed or suddenly dash off if he spotted something of interest. It was especially dangerous around traffic as he could run into the road without looking.

Now when we go out there's no wheelchair and we just bring Keeva. Ryan is attached to Keeva by a belt meaning he can't just dash off! If he tries to flee Keeva will sit down anchoring him in place and keeping him safe.

This time last year Ryan wouldn't have been physically able to walk 5km. Keeva's job is to mind Ryan. However it's also Ryan's job to mind Keeva and as every good dog owner knows you need to walk your doggie everyday. For the past 12 months Ryan's walked Keeva most days and I have no doubt that today both of them will cross the finish line tired but happy.

The second charity Ryan wishes to raise money for is Liskinette equine therapy centre. Liskinette is a facility ran by St. Joseph's foundation. It offers equine therapy and respite to adults and children's with Autism and Learning difficulties. Every Saturday without fail both Ryan and Aaran attend Liskinette where they are led around on horses for a therapy known as "The Horseboy Method". The boys just think that they're getting to go horse riding but actually it's a therapy which helps regulate them and encourages social integration with both the people leading the horses and the other riders in the group. For Ryan it's also a great way to help improve his core stability and build up muscle strength. Ryan also receives additional physiotherapy sessions where the physiotherapist will attend and get him to do exercises while on horse back.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read Ryan's story. We would very much appreciate it if you can donate whatever you can to help Ryan raise money for these 2 amazing charities who have made such a difference to our lives.