This story is heart warming, and heartbreaking at the same time.
Tumbs up for horse therapy!! I have worked in this field as well, some years ago. I learned that horses have the strongest nerve system of all domestic animals. (Runs the base chakra, cats the second, dogs the third) Paralyzed person often get alot better after riding, as if the horses transfer their nerve-energy to the patient.
And even if you cant ride, yet.. being in their presence is healing too.