Turning Pain Into Purpose

The Leyla Strong Foundation was created from a life-changing moment that no family ever expects. What started as a fight for healing became a mission to help others facing the same reality.

We are dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and bringing hope to families impacted by traumatic brain injuries and other life-altering conditions.

Through community, advocacy, and giving, we aim to make sure no family feels alone in their journey.

Who We Are

  • Our approach is rooted in compassion, community, and action.

    We focus on raising awareness, providing meaningful support, and creating opportunities to give back to families facing unexpected medical and life challenges. Through outreach, partnerships, and community engagement, we strive to make a lasting difference.

    Every initiative we take is guided by one goal: to ensure no family feels alone in their journey.

  • At the heart of the Leyla Strong Foundation are the values that guide everything we do:

    Strength – We honor resilience in the face of adversity.
    Compassion – We lead with empathy and understanding.
    Community – We believe in the power of coming together.
    Integrity – We operate with honesty, transparency, and purpose.
    Impact – We are committed to making a real difference in the lives we touch.

  • The Leyla Strong Foundation was born from a moment that changed our lives forever.

    Just days before Christmas, our lives took an unexpected turn. What started as a normal day quickly became a nightmare when our vehicle broke down on the highway. Within moments, another car crashed into us, changing everything in an instant.

    Our 7-year-old daughter, Leyla, suffered a traumatic brain injury and was rushed to the hospital. As a parent, nothing prepares you for hearing those words. We were thrown into a world of uncertainty, fear, and survival.

    Leyla was placed on a ventilator, and for 17 long days, we watched her fight for her life.
    Every day felt like a waiting game… praying, hoping, and holding on.

    There were moments when we didn’t know what the outcome would be. Moments where everything felt out of our control.

    But Leyla is strong.

    And then came a moment we will never forget.

    After everything she had been through, after the silence, the fear, and the fight, Leyla got her voice back. And the first words she uttered were:

    “5, 6, 7, 8.”

    Not just words but a reflection of who she is. A cheerleader. A fighter. A light.

    In that moment, we knew—Leyla was still here. Still fighting. Still strong.

    That moment changed everything for us.

    As we continued this journey, we realized how many families are facing similar battles, often feeling lost, unsupported, and alone while navigating traumatic brain injuries and life-altering conditions.

    And we knew we had to do something bigger.

    The Leyla Strong Foundation was created to turn our pain into purpose to raise awareness, support families, and be a source of strength for others walking this same path.

    Today, Leyla’s story is still being written. Her journey is one of resilience, courage, and hope.

    And through this foundation, we are committed to making sure no family has to face this fight alone.

🏆 THE LEYLA STRONG AWARD

The Leyla Strong Award was created to recognize individuals who demonstrate extraordinary strength, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity.

Inspired by Leyla’s journey, this award honors those who continue to rise despite life’s challenges—individuals who show determination, perseverance, and a spirit that refuses to give up.

Recipients of the Leyla Strong Award are more than survivors—they are fighters, leaders, and sources of inspiration within their communities. They embody what it truly means to be “Leyla Strong”: turning obstacles into strength and using their journey to uplift others.

💫 WHY FAYLA WAS SELECTED

Fayla was selected as a recipient of the Leyla Strong Award because her journey is a true reflection of strength, resilience, and unwavering courage.

After being diagnosed with bone cancer, Fayla faced a battle that no child should have to endure. Through treatments, challenges, and moments of uncertainty, she showed incredible bravery and determination every step of the way.

Despite everything she went through, Fayla never gave up.

She fought with strength beyond her years—and she won.

Today, Fayla stands as a survivor and an inspiration to everyone around her. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even in the face of life’s toughest battles, strength, courage, and faith can carry you through.

Fayla embodies what it means to be Leyla Strong—not just because of what she overcame, but because of how she continues to inspire others through her resilience and spirit.

We proudly honor Fayla for her strength, her courage, and her victory.

Recipient
Fay’la Foster

Year
2026 Spring Recipient