Submitted by Kathleen Amoia
(June 19, 2026) — The Kelly Allard Leach Foundation is proud to announce a new partnership with Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in Hartford through a $50,000 pledge in support of pediatric spine care and research.
Presented by board members Jonathan Leach and Sandy Allard, the Foundation’s gift will support the work of Dr. Jonathan Martin, Division Head of Neurosurgery at Connecticut Children’s, in collaboration with the Orthopedic Spine Program. Funding will help advance pediatric spine research and collaboration by supporting participation in the Pediatric Spine Study Group, attendance at the International Congress on Early Onset Scoliosis and the Growing Spine (ICEOS), and administrative resources that help bring this important work to life.
Among Dr. Martin’s ongoing research efforts is the exploration of less-invasive treatment options for children with severe upper neck and spinal injuries. His work challenges long-held assumptions that major fusion surgery is always necessary and may help improve outcomes for children facing these rare but serious conditions.
This partnership reflects the mission at the heart of the Kelly Allard Leach Foundation. Following Kelly’s untimely passing in 2025, her family and friends established the Foundation to honor her life, her generosity, and her desire to help others. A proud member of the Killingworth community, Kelly cared deeply about children and believed every young person deserved the opportunity to thrive.
The Foundation was created to support causes that improve the lives of children and young people affected by spinal trauma. Through this investment, Kelly’s legacy will continue to make a meaningful difference for families facing some of life’s most difficult challenges.
The Foundation’s board extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Killingworth community and the many friends, neighbors, and supporters whose generosity has made this gift possible. Together, we are helping create a brighter future for children in need while honoring Kelly’s enduring spirit of compassion and service.
For more information or to donate, visit kellyleachfoundation.org
Photo above by Liz Fongemie, Connecticut Children’s Foundation. Left to right: Sandy Allard, Jonathan Leach, Dr. Jonathan Martin.
