WEDDINGTON, NC - Harry Swimmer is a top ten finalist in the CNN Hero contest for 2016, which recognizes everyday people doing extraordinary things to help others.
At age 87, Swimmer, a Weddington resident, still runs his horse therapy organization, Mitey Riders. The organization uses the healing power of horses to help treat and improve the lives of special needs and disabled children.
Swimmer, who says he exercises in his pool every morning, lifts each rider onto their horse, and then walks beside them as they step off for class. He even leads a few exercises in the ring, getting the children to touch their head, knees and shoulders while mounted on their horse.
Classes run Wednesday through Saturday, and are offered free of charge for families.
“[These families] have enough on their plate, they don’t need to be burdened with anything else. We call them all family, they’re a part of our family,” said Swimmer, who has been married to his wife Marilyn for 65 years.
“It’s a life-fulfilling experience; it just is something that I have been very, very lucky and blessed to be able to do, to provide this,” Swimmer added.
Swimmer founded Mitey Riders more than 20 years ago after retiring from the insurance business. A chance meeting with a young girl suffering from cerebral palsy inspired Swimmer, catapulting him into a retirement of serving others.
Swimmer's top ten hero nomination won his organization $10,000, and he will next compete for the grand prize of $100,000 and the title of Top CNN Hero of 2016 at a ceremony in New York City December 11, 2016 on CNN at 8pm.
To vote for Harry and the Mitey Riders, click here.