(LARKSPUR, Colo.) — There’s a certain calm that swirls through Bella Terra Farms in Larkspur.
Caleb is five and is finding therapy on this rural piece of Colorado land more beneficial than traditional treatments his parents previously sought out. According to his parents, Rachel and Kyle Vermeulen, Caleb has a few different medical complexities.
Since he arrived at Bella Terra, Caleb has taken more steps—much more prior to his arrival at the farm. “From three to 16 steps is just wild in the span of just eight months,” Kyle said.
The Vermeulen family is not native to Colorado, they moved after discovering how receptive Colorado is to the disabled community. “For us, it was a no-brainer,” Kyle said. “We didn’t plan it, but if he’s going to get what he needs—there’s no question. We need to move.”
The Vermeulens left their home state of Nevada, including friends, family, and jobs, seeking resources for their son. One of those resources was outdoor therapy. Bella Terra Farms is a space where Caleb thrives according to his parents.
“It’s an animal and play therapy sanctuary. A healing sanctuary where kids and adults of all ages—on a healing journey—are welcome to experience play, hugs, and cuddles,” said Tara Wells, founder of Bella Terra Farms. “Here at the farm, we totally believe that love heals.”
Wells’ dream has been to create a farm and a space to help others. “It’s humbling, because… now we’re seeing lives touched,” added Wells.
Bella Terra Farms is free — and for the Vermeulen family: life-changing. “Farm animals are so therapeutic,” said Rachel. “They’re meeting Caleb’s needs and filling his cup so he can work harder. So it means the world to us.”
Bella Terra Farms invites a variety of therapists to utilize the space with their clients.
The farm accepts monetary donations and will host a Farm Day on Saturday, Aug. 24. The event will take place at the farm from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for the address the farm requests to message them at [email protected] or (719) 433-1790.
For further information, click the link above.
