When 41-year-old Avril Juzwishin was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, it forced her to navigate the world in a new way.
While that journey has never been simple or easy, it's a journey that has led her to find a new special friend who has brought her pure joy.
Juzwishin found that friend at Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association, a non-profit charitable organization in Saanichton that uses horseback riding as a therapeutic aid for children and adults of diverse abilities.
That friend is a 24-year-old therapy horse named KC, a gentle giant that Juzwishin describes as the "love of my life."
“I adore her," Juzwishin said. "When I walk up to her stall, I know she’s happy to see me because she pricks her ears forward in excitement.”
The pair met in 2023 when Juzwishin first came to the VTRA stables. Through the lessons, she develops her riding skills and can connect with others facing similar life experiences.
KC is emotionally intelligent, able to pick up on Juzwishin's emotions and behaviours, mirror them, and help her feel calm and present.
“From the moment Avril met KC, we knew it was something special,” said Liz Gagel, executive director of VTRA. “Equine-assisted services can help individuals with disabilities cognitively, physically, and emotionally. The most dramatic change for Avril has been how her confidence has grown, we believe her partnership with KC has been a key part of that.”
This Valentine's Day, Juzwishin and KC will celebrate their second Valentine’s Day together, with cuddles and carrots, not chocolates.
More information on VTRA can be found at vtra.ca.
