Leah Kest

Meet GallopNYC rider, Leah Kest. “GallopNYC has not only helped me become my own person, but it has also given me a purpose and a reason to ‘Walk On’.”

Shortly after she was born, Leah was diagnosed with polio and by age 2, she was regularly involved with traditional physical therapy to help to develop greater mobility, strength and motor control. Fortunately, when Leah was 6, her mother found GallopNYC, and since then, Leah has never looked back. Originally shy, withdrawn and anxious, Leah had difficulty walking and relied on both leg braces and crutches. But over a short amount of time in therapeutic riding, Leah’s love of horses motivated her to open up to her GallopNYC PATH certified instructors, and work with them as a team to get the most out of her sessions. Not only was she gaining muscular strength and control, she was developing confidence and trust.

Now 20, she now moves independently and walks without leg braces. She was her high school’s prom queen! “GallopNYC has inspired me to study what I love and help others as they have helped me.” - Leah Kest.