Unicorn Therapy in Florida Children’s Hospitals
A little bit of magic for a big bit of healing
The unicorns of myth and legend are peaceful creatures, with magical qualities and the ability to heal. Perhaps it’s quite right then, that a new therapy has emerged, called Unicorn Hugs, where a small pony with a fake horn goes to see children in hospices, bringing joy to their lives and smiles to their faces.
Visit Florida and you might just meet a unicorn at a health centre, nursing home or hospital, bringing joy and smiles to everyone they meet.
Brittany Beard set up the non-profit organisation called “Unicorn Hugs,” which takes small ponies dressed as unicorns to meet sick children and elderly people. The ponies are trained therapy animals, eager to please. They happily take new people and strange environments in their stride. You can watch a short video of them here…
“This is why we feel so lucky to get to do what we do! Just look at their smile!” says Brittany, when a little boy at Tampa General Hospital grins with delight, while touching the unicorn’s horn.
Brittany has three ponies who share the role of the unicorn, and she fully embraces the whole fairytale concept. She dresses as a winged fairy, or a princess, and leads her ‘unicorn’ into the health centre, where she’s greeted with wall to wall smiles.
“We are the resident Therapy Unicorn at Tampa General Hospital,” says Brittany, “and we couldn’t be more grateful! We have an annual visit to the Paediatric Ward Christmas Party and it’s always a magical night. The kids got to touch Spirit’s unicorn horn and make a Christmas wish, since unicorns keep all their magic inside their horn. It was the perfect start to our holiday season!”
People’s faces light up. They love to stroke the ponies. These unicorns may not have supernatural powers, but they do have a magical effect on the people who meet them. They bring enormous pleasure and lift people’s spirits.
The therapy brings measurable benefits to people’s health. Laughing and smiling are both good for the immune system. Positive thoughts can support healing. These ‘unicorns’ are real happiness therapists, who promote good health!
They also visit John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, and the ‘Give Kids the World’ village in Florida.
Therapy ‘unicorns’ are a lot like therapy cats, dogs, and chickens, who also visit residential homes and hospitals. The animals bring joy and comfort to people at a difficult time in their lives. They leave lasting memories and future visits to look forward to.
Animals have a magical effect on people’s lives, bringing delight to recipients and all round smiles. They are the ultimate mood boosters!
Follow Unicorn Hugs on Facebook! www.facebook.com/ISawAUnicorn
© Susie Kearley 2023. All Rights Reserved.
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