September is a BIG awareness month. This September, we’re calling attention to the following that we see on a regular basis: Deaf awareness, blood cancer awareness, prostate cancer awareness, national service dog month, and world suicide prevention month. 

Deaf Awareness Month: 

During the entire month of September, individuals worldwide focus on raising awareness on issues, people and cultures pertaining to the Deaf community. Deaf and hearing allies come together to celebrate the diversity of Deaf culture. Let’s start by calling out the difference between deaf and Deaf (with a capital “D”)—those who identify as deaf don’t identify themselves with the Deaf community. In contrast, those who identify as Deaf are tied to the community of people who share the same struggles. 

We are proud to partner with the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind in Gooding. We take the participants out on the sensory trail and let them connect with the horses, their senses, and nature while disconnecting from their day-to-day struggles. We work with the teachers at the school and use American Sign Language to communicate with the participants. Watching their facial expressions says it all. The smiles from ear to ear and the high fives that are given let us know we’re making a positive impact on their lives!

Blood Cancer Awareness Month: 

September is a focused time for advocates and supporters of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to raise awareness about efforts to fight blood cancers. 

Some stunning facts about blood cancer: 

• Every three minutes someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with blood cancer.
• More than 1.3 million Americans are living with or are in remission from blood cancer.
• Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are the third leading causes of cancer death in the United States.
• One-third of blood cancer patients don’t survive five years after diagnosis. 

Riding at the ranch allows cancer patients to build confidence in themselves as they go through challenging times from the effects of treatment. Participants connect with their equine buddy, who listens and goes through the hard times with them. 

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month:
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is a time to help people learn and support those affected by the diagnosis. Prostate cancer happens to be the second most common cancer among men, and this year the American Cancer Society estimates there will be over 260,000 cases and, from that, about 34,000 deaths. Consider this a reminder that if you’re a male to go in for your annual PSA or, if you’re not and you’re reading this, tell the guys in your life. Early detection dramatically increases a successful outcome. 

World Suicide Prevention Month: 

The prevalence of suicide deaths in the U.S. is alarming, but we can create positive change together. This month is Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, and we can attest to the need for awareness. We’ve seen an increase in demand for our services during the pandemic due to anxiety, mental health struggles, and so much more. Please, help spread the word and share this number with anyone who may be in need, Idaho Crisis & Suicude Hotline: (208) 398-4357 or the national hotline of 988.

National Service Dog Month:

Lastly, let’s take a moment to honor and celebrate those furry friends that help out so many! This is a month dedicated to raising awareness and showing appreciation foor the hard work service animals do every day for the people in their care. Millions of lives are better and safer because of the work these dogs do. 

You may remember back to this winter when we introduced you to one of our particpants, Walter, and his service dog, Frommer. This dynamic duo is just one example of the positive impacts that service dogs have on their person’s life. Frommer is a guide dog for Walter and watching the two will warm anyone’s heart. Revisit their story by clicking here. 

If you have any questions about the services that we offer here at Swiftsure Ranch you can reach out on our website at swiftsureranch.org or by calling 208-578-9111.