When Leia Hunt faced childhood cancer not once, but twice, she emerged from her battle stronger than ever with a mission to help others fighting the same disease. She channeled her strength into Leia’s Kids, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families. Leia knows firsthand the struggles these families face — from overwhelming medical bills to the emotional toll of battling such a terrifying illness — and she’s made it her life’s work to provide them direct support, hope and a little bit of joy.
One of the many ways Leia’s Kids spread that joy is through “Crown-A-Kid” parties. These special celebrations honor children in the midst of their cancer fight, reminding them and their families that even in the darkest days, there’s still room for laughter and love.
“The party gives the family a chance to enjoy a moment together without cancer,” Leia explained.
Leia’s capacity for empathy extends far beyond these parties. As an advocate in the battle against childhood cancer, she’s fighting for much-needed legislation in Washington to bridge the alarming gap in cancer research.
Currently, children’s cancer treatments are decades behind those for adults, leaving young patients with fewer effective options. Leia said she is is determined to change that by raising awareness and pushing for more funding dedicated to pediatric cancer research.
Through Leia’s Kids, Leia has also debuted “Princess Marygold,” a children’s book character. Princess Marygold is more than just a whimsical creation; she is the first childhood cancer-surviving princess. With her trusty companion, Peppermint Pig, Princess Marygold embarks on adventures that teach valuable life lessons about finding hope and joy even in the most challenging circumstances.
The book serves as a beacon of light for young cancer patients, showing them that even during the darkest storms, a rainbow is waiting on the other side. It also helps to educate anyone reading it to be more aware and perhaps a bit more understanding of what kids fighting cancer go through.
“Not all cancer kids are bald kids,” Leia said. “So many of them don’t even look sick, so the expectations are that they should have the energy and focus of their healthy friends. It just doesn’t work that way.”
Leia’s personal journey has given her a deep understanding of the struggles sick children face as they try to navigate a typical childhood. As an accredited teacher in Texas, she dreams of opening a school specifically for children battling serious illnesses.
“It’s impossible to focus on math and memorizing multiplication tables when you’re dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy,” Leia said.
She envisions a supportive environment where children can learn at their own pace, whether that is remote or through in-person learning. They should be surrounded by teachers and classmates who truly understand what they’re going through.
To make Leia’s vision a reality, the support of community leaders, businesses and sponsors is essential. While volunteering may be limited due to the fragile immune systems of many children in treatment, there are still ways to help. Contributions from sponsors allow Leia’s Kids to continue hosting parties, offering retreats and providing invaluable resources to families in need.
One exciting development is the launch of Girls Retreats, where young women who have fought childhood cancer can come together for support, empowerment and healing. These retreats offer a safe space for girls to bond with others who understand their journey, creating lasting connections and memories.
The first retreat, which was held in Gulf Shores, Alabama, was a resounding success, and Leia hopes to expand this life-changing program to more locations.
Through Leia’s Kids, Leia has turned her own fight for life into a movement that uplifts and empowers others. As she continues to advocate for childhood cancer research and support families in their time of need, Leia’s message is clear: no matter how dark the storm, there is always light on the horizon.
“The party gives the family a chance to enjoy a moment together without cancer.”
“It’s impossible to focus on math and memorizing multiplication tables when you’re dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy.”