The Indian Cancer Society (ICS) is trying its hand at equine therapy to help cancer patients overcome the fear and sense of powerlessness that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Last week, three cancer survivors were taken to the Mahalaxmi Race Course to familiarise them with horses. ICS is planning to enrol at least 15 cancer patients and survivors for equine therapy.
Shekhar Jha, 30, a cancer survivor, said, “I have never been exposed to any pets in my life. At first, I was hesitant to be near a horse. But getting familiarised with the horse and eventually riding on its back was enriching. When I finally rode him, there was an immense sense of confidence.” Mr. Jha was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, at the age of six. He used to work as an accountant, but is now associated with the survivor’s support group at ICS. Mr. Jha says the trainers guided them in climbing the saddle, with the body language to follow while approaching a horse and other dos and dont’s. Mr. Jha says equine therapy will definitely soothe people coping with stress.
Harsh Baxi, 24, another survivor, said the confidence and sense of achievement he experienced after the ride was overwhelming. “I was petrified at first, but when I got rid of the fear, the experience was enriching.” Mr. Baxi was diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of 16. After undergoing treatment for a year, he completed his engineering and has now got a placement with Infosys.
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Research by the Department of Psychology, Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University in 2015, shows that “equine-assisted therapy may be an effective treatment for anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms”. The study was carried out on 16 volunteers who underwent a traumatic event.
Sheila Nair, director general of ICS, said, “Several studies have shown that equine therapy has good results. We thought why not roll it out for patients undergoing cancer treatment in Mumbai.” ICS is in touch with the Amateur Riders Club and is in the process of finalising candidates and designing the therapy module. Ms. Nair said the ICS was looking at non-medical treatment to provide emotional and psychological support to cancer patients and came across equine therapy. “The final candidates will be a mix of patients undergoing treatment and who have completed treatment. It will cover all types of cancers.”
Bangalore-based equine therapist Pushpa Bopaiah says horses help in boosting patients emotionally, physically and socially. “Cancer patients undergo trauma due to hair loss and weakness during chemotherapy. When they get in touch with horses, they bond emotionally. The movement of horses and humans are similar, which helps in improving rigidity and spasticity in patients. Lastly, to interact with horses, the patients come out in the open and hence become better socially.”
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Psychiatrists also believe that any kind of pet therapy works wonders. “Unless someone hates animals or is allergic to them, pet therapy is a great way for patients to find healing. I have recommended many patients to get a pet, especially a dog,” said Dadar-based psychiatrist Dr. Rajendra Barve. He says trained animals give an non-judgemental ear, are non-demanding and understand the patient’s emotional status well.