Leia’s Kids is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to bringing hope and joy to children, young adults, and families in the fight against childhood cancer. The organization accomplishes its mission by offering financial grants to ease the burden of medical expenses, hosting family dream parties that create unforgettable memories, organizing Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) mental health retreats to support emotional well-being, raising awareness about childhood cancer, and providing essential resources to guide families through their challenging journeys.
Leia’s Kids is a tax-exempt public charity (federal tax ID #82-3212936). All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
Leia T. Hunt is a two-time childhood cancer survivor, Leia’s journey began when she was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of eye cancer, at just two years old. Her fight against the disease involved 26 surgical procedures, numerous rounds of chemotherapy, and the insertion of a radioactive isotope in her left eye. Although the radiation successfully eradicated the cancer, it also left Leia blind in that eye.
Despite these challenges, Leia’s experiences fueled her passion to make a difference. At the age of 18, while still a senior in high school, she founded Leia’s Kids, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families facing childhood cancer. Through Leia’s Kids, Leia has been able to provide financial assistance, advocacy, warrior parties, and mental health retreats for children, teens, and young adults across the nation.
In addition to her work with Leia’s Kids, Leia is an inspirational speaker, podcast host, mental health advocate, educator, and author of several books, including What Is Cancer, My Battle Plan Journal, Princess Marygold and the Royal Tea Party, and Princess Marygold Coloring In the Castle. Her advocacy extends beyond her non-profit work, as she collaborates with organizations such as the Eye Tumor Research Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the We C Hope Foundation. Furthermore, Leia plays an active role in advocating for pediatric cancer research and awareness at both the state and federal levels, including speaking annually at the White House for the Cancer Moonshot initiative.
Leia’s dedication and resilience have not only impacted countless lives but have also contributed to significant advancements in pediatric cancer legislation, ensuring that childhood cancer remains a priority in state cancer plans across the country.
Leia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Her academic background in education complements her work as an advocate, educator, and author, allowing her to connect with children and young adults on a deeper level. Through her non-profit, Leia’s Kids, and her various educational initiatives, she leverages her expertise to empower young minds and provide crucial support to those facing the challenges of childhood cancer.
President
Vice President
Development Coordinator
Board Chair
Bryan Agnello, born and raised in Norfolk, VA. Owner of a Minuteman Press franchise that has been in business going on 35 years. Proud supporter of Leias Kids since the beginning.
Member
Brian Livingston is a 20+ year commercial banker currently employed at B1 Bank in Frisco at the Commercial Banking Director. Brian is also in his 3rd term as a Frisco City Councilman and previously served as the city’s Deputy Mayor Pro Tem. Brian has been married to his wife, Brittany, for 18 years and has 2 beautiful daughters, Lauren age 16 and Reagan age 13. His passion for cancer research and helping those with cancer comes from losing his parents to pancreatic cancer and kidney cancer at early ages.a