January 2 , 2025 The Beacon • 21
Learning life lessons from a horse was fun
In October I volunteered to cover an event at a nursing home , mainly because I wanted a chance to visit with my friend .
She and her daughter take their pony to nursing homes to visit with residents . When she told me she was going to a local one , I asked if I could join her . Everyone was excited to have the media attend Reiny the pony ’ s visit to Lafayette Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in West Lafayette . I figured I ’ d visit a little bit , pet the pony , take some pictures and be done . However , before I knew it , I was sucked into the magic that is Reiny .
Residents ’ eyes shown with excitement when they saw Reiny walking through the halls . They shared stories of growing up with ponies , helping their kids raise them and more . I remember one very nice lady specifically asking if Reiny could come to her husband ’ s room . I stepped in his room early so I could get a good picture when Reiny came in .
The wife and I chatted some , but the husband was not actively involved in our conversation . I was curious if he had dementia or Alzheimer ’ s but didn ’ t have a chance to ask . I also figured it really wasn ’ t my business . The man ’ s whole demeanor changed when Reiny walked in though . His face lit up with excitement , and he shared stories with us . It was such a heartwarming moment .
I was able to go back to Lafayette Pointe in November for its own version of the Macy ’ s Thanksgiving
One little pony helped me learn a lot of lessons this fall .
Day Parade . Reiny was back for this event , but it also included costumed characters , queens , a drummer , other live animals and free candy . Staff , representatives from agencies that serve the residents and community members all participated in the parade . Once again , I got to watch the residents ’ faces light up when they saw the Parade at the Pointe come through their hallways .
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One special lady even waited until the end of the parade so she could get her picture taken with Reiny . This time it was her that taught me a lesson . Take the picture . Don ’ t worry about your weight or how you look . Just take the picture . Live in the moment and don ’ t be afraid to capture the memory . Life goes fast , and people come and go for a variety of reasons . Take the picture .
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