Stacey G. Lehr Foundation Commits $1 Million to John Stoddard Cancer Center
The Stacey G. Lehr Foundation has committed $1 million to support adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer care at UnityPoint Health – John Stoddard Cancer Center, ensuring young adults facing cancer have access to the specialized support and resources they need throughout their treatment journey.
The gift, announced during the 26th Annual Rally Against Cancer, will name the Stacey G. Lehr Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Program, honoring the life and legacy of Stacey Lehr.
Stacey passed away in 2023 at the age of 42 following a courageous battle with breast cancer. A talented designer, entrepreneur, mother of three and passionate advocate for others, Stacey was known for her ability to make people feel seen and cared for - even during her own cancer journey.
“For our family and all those who were close to Stacey, this gift is about honoring who she was and the way she lived her life,” said Kent Lehr. “Even during treatment, Stacey was always asking how we could help other people facing difficult circumstances. Supporting young adults with cancer reflects her heart for others and her desire to make a difference. I am grateful to the many family members and friends who have joined us in this commitment, and I am proud to partner with John Stoddard Cancer Center to see it through.”
The Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program serves patients navigating cancer during some of life's most formative years. Whether they are pursuing education, building careers, raising families or planning for the future, young adults often face unique emotional, practical and financial challenges alongside their medical treatment.
The Stacey G. Lehr Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Program will help provide specialized support services designed to address those challenges and ensure patients receive care that extends beyond treatment alone.
"Young adults facing cancer have needs that are distinct from both pediatric and older adult populations," said Sarah Zeidler, Executive Director of John Stoddard Cancer Center. "This extraordinary gift will help us continue providing comprehensive support that addresses the physical, emotional and practical realities these patients experience. We are deeply grateful to Kent Lehr and the Lehr and Gibbs Families for their generosity and partnership."
The commitment reflects the mission of the Stacey G. Lehr Foundation to continue Stacey's legacy of helping others and creating meaningful impact within the community.
“For our family, the incredible friends Stacey made throughout her life, and for our children, this gift represents more than a philanthropic investment,” said Lehr. “It’s a lasting tribute to Stacey’s life, values
and enduring impact on the community we both loved. Her love continues to show up for others, and her legacy will continue to grow through every life this program touches.”
The Stacey G. Lehr Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Program builds upon Stoddard Cancer Center's commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered cancer care for individuals and families