From the moment Gambit was born at Meadow Brook Stables in 2023, his name carried both hope and risk: A Tru Riskey Gambit. Like every foal, he was a leap of faith — full of promise and uncertainty. Now he faces one of the biggest challenges of his young life: starting with advanced neurological evaluation at New Bolton Center to determine his best path forward. Gambit has a significant misalignment of two vertebrae high up in his cervical spine.
You can learn more about his condition here: Programs | Horse First Initiative
This fundraiser, hosted by Horse First Initiative, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the United States, supports Gambit’s medical care and documents his journey as part of the Horse First Decisions program. Donations will help cover his transport, advanced evaluation, possible treatment or surgery, and the rehabilitation and recovery period that follows. His story will also be shared to help the equestrian community learn from the decisions made on his behalf.
Where Your Gift Goes
Your donation will:
Cover Gambit’s referral, transport, and advanced diagnostics at an equine hospital.
Support treatment and potential surgery, if recommended by specialists.
Support Gambit’s rehabilitation and recovery related to his condition.
Fund educational resources such as articles, videos, and outreach that share Gambit’s journey with the equestrian community.
Why This Matters
Gambit’s story reflects a challenge that every horse owner eventually faces: how to make difficult choices with the horse’s welfare at the center. Supporting this project ensures Gambit receives the best possible care while creating resources that can guide others through similar decisions.
Transparency
Horse First Initiative manages all donations and applies them in accordance with 501(c)(3) requirements. Whether Gambit undergoes surgery, receives another form of treatment, or requires supportive care, your gift will:
Ensure he receives the best available evaluation and medical care from specialists.
Support the creation of educational resources that benefit the equestrian community.
Donations may be tax-deductible where allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor for guidance specific to your country or jurisdiction.
Call to Action
Gambit’s journey is more than one colt’s challenge. With your support, this Horse First Decisions project becomes a resource that helps horse owners everywhere make thoughtful, compassionate choices.
➡️ Donate today to support Gambit’s journey.
About the Horse First Decisions Program
Horse First Decisions is the inaugural program of Horse First Initiative Inc. It documents real horses at critical crossroads and the choices made on their behalf. Some decisions are medical: diagnostics, surgery, or long-term care. Others involve training, management, competition, or end-of-life care.
By sharing these stories, the program gives the equestrian community practical examples of what it means to put the horse first, even when the decisions are difficult. Gambit’s project is the current focus within this broader program.