Friends of Late Minnetonka High School Dance Team Member Make Generous Donation to Newly Established Foundation in Her Honor. In memory of Layla Julien, a former co-captain of the Minnetonka High School dance team who tragically lost her battle with brain cancer in December 2022, her close friends and fellow dancers have made a significant contribution to a foundation created in her name.
Despite having graduated and moved away for college, Julien’s friends remain committed to preserving her legacy. On Julien’s 19th birthday last month, they organized a large-scale garage sale, raising an astonishing sum of over $4,500 in just a few hours.
“We initially hoped for $50 and were uncertain if anyone would show up. But then, so many people arrived to support her,” shared her friend Katie Lesmeister.
The group surprised Julien’s parents with a heartfelt check during a grand birthday celebration a few weeks ago, leaving them overwhelmed with gratitude.
“It was simply unbelievable,” expressed Layla’s father, Robbin Julien. “To kick off the foundation in such a manner is truly wonderful.”
Together with their friend Angie Lindberg, the Julien family recently launched the Layla Julien Foundation. The funds raised will be dedicated to pediatric brain cancer research and scholarships for graduating high school dancers who embody the same inclusivity and joy that defined Layla’s character.
“We want Layla’s memory to endure, and if we can achieve that by acknowledging others who exemplify her qualities during her time here, we consider ourselves fortunate,” stated Julien.
For more information about the Layla Julien Foundation, please visit their Instagram page. Donations are accepted through PayPal.
