Austyn’s RDA Journey
Austyn has been part of the RDA family for around seven years, and according to his dad, Garry, it has made an incredible difference to both Austyn and their whole family.
The family first discovered RDA when Austyn’s mum, Cheryl, searched online for activities that would suit his needs. Austyn, who is blind and has complex physical needs, began his journey at Clwyd RDA using a mechanical horse.
“At first, Austyn could only manage a few minutes,” Garry explains. “Lucy would sit with him to help stabilise him, but over time his core strength improved so much that he eventually progressed to riding a real pony.”
Today, Austyn attends weekly sessions at RDA Beechley Stables, where he rides Rita and takes part in hippotherapy sessions supported by coaches Lucy and Darren.
“He loves it here,” says Garry. “He has such a strong bond with the team. Darren, Lucy – everyone here knows him so well.”
For Austyn, the experience is about far more than riding. Because he is blind, much of his interaction with the world is sensory, and the movement of the horse, being outdoors, and the social connection all play an important role in his wellbeing.
“He absolutely sulks if a session is cancelled,” Garry laughs. “He loves the routine, the familiarity, and being around everyone here.”
The benefits have been both physical and emotional. Riding has helped improve Austyn’s posture, head control, and breathing, while also increasing flexibility in his hips and legs, making everyday tasks such as dressing and changing easier.
“The movement of the horse is so helpful to Austyn,” says Garry. “It keeps him happy and stimulated, and that has a positive effect on all of us as a family too.”
Although Austyn has tried other activities over the years, Garry believes RDA offers something unique.
“With other groups, Austyn can sometimes get a bit lost, especially because he’s blind. But at RDA the focus is completely on him and his individual needs. That’s what makes it so special.”
For the Hadfield family, RDA has become much more than a weekly activity – it is a place where Austyn feels understood, included, and happy.
