Carson Leslie was just 14 years old when he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Three years later, after a valiant fight, he succumbed to the disease at age 17 — but not before penning a book about his experience, which he hoped would make a difference for other kids trudging through the same battle.
His mother, Annette Leslie, is making sure that it does; the Preston Hollow family established the Carson Leslie Foundation to raise money for children’s cancer research.
The members of the foundation are known as Shady Ladies and work to advance the mission through fundraisers, such as the annual event fifth annual, “Sunny Place for Shady People,” Jan. 16, featuring a Texas Hold’em tournament, chicken drop and “Dancing for their Scars.”
Last week, the women kicked off the spring season, welcoming new members at the home of Lisa Troutt. Learn how to become a Shady Lady.
Carson’s book is titled, “Carry Me,” and its available on the foundation’s website, and at Dougherty’s Pharmacy. The book also is in the Library of Congress.
Here are photos from the kick-off: