The Li-Fraumeni Syndrome Association (LFSA) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the first annual Lesko-Fleming Empowerment Grant supporting adolescents and young adults with LFS.
Through the tremendous generosity of the Lesko and Fleming families, this newly established annual grant program honoring the meaningful life and enduring memory of Cody Lesko (May 7, 2001-July, 30, 2024) is intended to alleviate and ease burdens for youth managing the reality of life with LFS by providing means and support as they navigate the many paths along their LFS journey.
The $10k award will be shared between two recipients every year. The split may vary after application review and is not required to be equal. Each of the two 2026 grant recipients will also receive a stipend to attend the 8th International LFS Association Symposium at MD Anderson in Houston, TX, October 2-5 or the Youth Workshop being held in August 2027 (location tbd).
Who should apply?
The LFSA encourages youth diagnosed with Li-Fraumeni syndrome between the ages of 13 and 26 to apply by submitting two essays about how LFS has impacted their lives and what would help them the most at this point in their journey. Applicants are encouraged to be thoughtful, creative, and open in their responses.
The Lesko-Fleming Empowerment Grants are awarded in the spirit of how Cody lived his life. There are no limitations on what the grants can be used for, only that they have impact, create meaning, and bring great joy to the youth who receive them.
The application can be accessed here and are due no later than Monday, August 24, 2026. Winners will be notified in September and publicly announced at the 8th International LFS Association Symposium, October 2-5, 2026, at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
