Join us at the Hope in the Kingdom Royal Ball! Click Here To Learn More
Join us at the Hope in the Kingdom Royal Ball! Click Here To Learn More
Leia’s Kids is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing hope, joy, and support to children and families facing childhood cancer. Through financial assistance, Royal Deliveries, AYA mental health retreats, advocacy, and educational resources through our Hope Library, we walk alongside families throughout every stage of the childhood cancer journey, reminding every child they are loved, known, and royal.
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 Toellner 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. Leia works closely with Pharmaceutical companies and actively speaks at The Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) global conference. Furthermore, she 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.
Executive Assistant
Liliana Hunt has been part of Leia’s Kids since the very beginning, helping the organization grow from an idea into a nonprofit dedicated to bringing hope, joy, and support to children and families facing childhood cancer. As the sister of founder Leia Hunt Toellner, Liliana has had the unique privilege of watching the mission come to life and has remained committed to serving families every step of the way.
As Executive Assistant, Liliana supports the day-to-day operations of Leia’s Kids while assisting with events, fundraising, community outreach, and special projects. She also brings joy and encouragement to children through her role as Princess Marygold, helping create hope-filled moments and lasting memories for the families we serve.
Liliana is currently a senior at Angelo State University, where she is pursuing a degree in Agricultural Science and Leadership with a minor in Professional Education. After graduation, she plans to become a high school agricultural science teacher, inspiring future generations through leadership, compassion, and hands-on learning. She is also actively involved in her family’s real estate business in North Texas.
She believes that serving others begins with showing up wholeheartedly and creating meaningful connections. Liliana is honored to be part of the Leia’s Kids family and is passionate about helping every child and family feel seen, loved, and supported throughout their journey.
Treasurer & Secretary
Business Development & Consulting
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.
Events & Community Engagement
Darrell Barnes, co-owner of Gather McKinney, a wedding and event center in Texas, is deeply passionate about supporting children battling life-threatening illnesses—a cause close to his heart as his wife’s child faced a cancer diagnosis. A Navy veteran and business leader, Darrell is actively engaged in the McKinney community through his work with the McKinney Chamber of Commerce and various nonprofits. His dedication to service and personal connection to cancer drive his commitment to making a meaningful difference for families in need.
Board Chair of Vision & Values
Brad Kaufman has been a tactical and business negotiator for over 40 years when he started his career in law enforcement with the Dallas Police Department and the federal government as a K9 handler/operator on a tactical team. His negotiation skills led him to form Bravo Kilo Advisors as a business advisor and business broker for the past seven years. Brad and his wife have two adult children, a nine-year-old granddaughter and four English Bulldogs. His survival mindset and leadership background are a welcome addition to Leia’s Kids while emphasizing hope, resilience and community support.
Strategic Planning Chair
Anita Reynolds is a healthcare advocate whose journey began with the Patient Advocate Foundation while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration. Holding many diverse roles, including bilingual medical intake coordinator, bilingual fertility case manager, administrative coordinator, and relationship manager for patient programs, she showcased her dedication to patients. Now, as the manager of grassroots and community partnerships at the National Patient Advocate Foundation, Anita channels her expertise into fostering collaborations at the grassroots level, empowering communities to advocate for improved healthcare access. She collaborates closely with local organizations to amplify patient voices nationwide.
While originally from Miami, Anita’s relocation to Virginia followed her husband Christopher’s military career in the United States Air Force. Alongside her professional pursuits, Anita takes great pride in her role as a devoted mother to her daughter Kylie and son Alexander.
The Leia’s Kids Junior Board empowers high school and college students to become compassionate leaders, using creativity, advocacy, and service to bring joy, hope, and community to children fighting cancer.
The Junior Board exists to give young people a meaningful way to join the fight against childhood cancer. Through hands-on projects, virtual outreach, and peer-led fundraising, members help amplify the mission of Leia’s Kids while building leadership skills, fostering community, and creating moments of joy for pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Aheira Jeff
Ava Bedard
Ava Parsons
Bella Peters
Danielle Robertson
Kittsee Palmateer
Meghan MacEntee
Natalie Ferracioli
Waverly McCauley
Haleigh Werner
Reagan Harris