Chester County Non-Profit Organization Is First Out Of The Gate To Give Cancer Patients An Emotional And Physical Boost Of Horse Power

Main Category: Cancer / Oncology
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 10 Mar 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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Chester County, long known for its scenic countryside and breathtaking equestrian estates, is now home to a unique organization that is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania. Horse Power For Life, a recently launched non-profit organization, utilizes the beauty of Chester County and the natural healing power of horses, a well-documented therapeutic resource that is used to treat the emotional and physical side effects of long-term illnesses. The organization's free horsemanship program provides an opportunity for cancer patients, survivors and their families to focus on their mind, heart and body, not the disease, by getting involved in a fun activity outside the cancer-treatment setting.

In only a few short months, the organization has touched the lives of several cancer survivors and patients, allowing them the invaluable opportunity to experience the beauty of life without the burden of cancer. In order to support program maintenance, Horse Power for Life is hosting its first annual "Pink Horse Shoe" dinner reception and silent auction. Shiree Sansone, president and co-founder of Horse Power For Life, said, "In just six short months, this organization established itself as a powerful therapeutic resource for the cancer community of Eastern Pennsylvania, and we promise to continue operation of the program so that those touched by cancer can experience the passion and joy of horseback riding."

The event, held at the People's Light & Theatre Company in Malvern on Saturday, April 19th from 7:00 - 11:00 p.m., aims to raise $20,000. Co-chairing the event is Chester County Hematology Oncology Services Medical Director, Dr. Dennis Berman and Pennsylvania State Senator Andy Dinniman. The "Pink Horse Shoe" event will include hors d'oeuvres, top-shelf open bar, sit down dinner, silent auction, live music and dancing with the Dave Mell Blues Band. Silent auction items include, a round of golf at Philadelphia Country Club, a Caribbean vacation, art and fine jewelry.

"Horse Power for Life has proven itself to be a priceless resource to our neighbors living with cancer," said Pennsylvania State Senator Andy Dinniman. In addition, medical director, Dr. Dennis Berman stated, "The organization exemplifies the power of community and I could not be more pleased to support such a deserving cause."

Ticket price is $100.00 per person. To receive an invitation to this event, please email your home address to shiree.sansone@horsepowerforlife.org by March 10th.

About Horse Power For Life

Horse Power For Life, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Chester County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated on August 29, 2007. It is the first organization of its kind in Pennsylvania, offering free educational and recreational horsemanship programs as a therapeutic resource for cancer patients of all ages and their families. The organization's 16-week, horsemanship program is free of charge and is designed to improve the physical and emotional quality of life for students as they learn about horses and how to ride in an atmosphere of professionalism, teamwork, and fun.

Horse Power For Life