Board of Directors
As the family and friends of Brooks, our board members have been impacted and forever changed by pediatric cancer. Each board member understands that childhood cancer is life changing. They have committed to the Brooks Strong Foundation because they know firsthand the impact that kindness and generosity can make in the lives of individual kids going through their cancer journey, and they believe in the power of research to make a difference.
Robert Tonn
Rob is Brooks’ Dad and one of the founders of Brooks Strong. Some of his favorite memories are of coaching Brooks in baseball. Whether watching him excel in a game or practicing until dark with unmatched self-determination to get better, Brooks always had a smile on his face. Our mantra when he got down on himself was “just be Brooks.” His physical abilities impressed everyone. His heart is what made him special.
Jack Francis
“When I think of Brooks I picture him playing wiffle ball in my yard year after year. I can imagine the voices, the debate on the calls, and most of all the laughter. He was part of our family and like a son to me. Brookie would text me on the weekends to see what time he could come over to play with my son who was his best friend. He was so easy to be around that we always had him over. He would join us on our weekly outings filling our lives with humor.”
Jeff Lesniewicz
Jeff was blessed to have coached Brooks in two sports. Their relationship was a special bond that Jeff will cherish forever. Jeff was always humbled by Brooks’ character and strength he brought everyday to life. “There will never be another Brooks, but I hope those kids who knew him will continue to honor his legacy by being better than average as a human being. He was and is still my MVP.”
Nora Tonn
Nora is Brooks’ Mom and one of the founders of Brooks Strong. “Brooks was my third son and my greatest joy. He was a collickey baby, and for many months I never thought I’d sleep another full night. Who would have known then that Brooks would soon become such a shining star. He was kind and thoughtful. He was always the first to say thank you or to tell me I looked pretty. He had a thousand friends, but always made room for more. He was the cool kid who was nice to everyone. In his ten short years he taught us all so much. I will miss him forever.”
Kelly Francis
“Brooks Tonn shaped my son William’s childhood. They were constant companions and best friends from the time they were in diapers. Brooks’ sunny and spirited presence in my house changed us all for the better. He is on our minds daily and in our hearts forever.”
Trish Kinsella
In August 2007, the world became a little bit brighter with the birth of my treasured nephew, Brooks Edwin Tonn. For ten short years we soaked him in and absorbed all of his love and goodness. He was truly a special soul. I believe that Brooks was a catalyst…here on earth to ignite something bigger than we can currently comprehend. So, it is with that understanding that I live each day with greater purpose…knowing that Brooks is always by my side.
I am forever BROOKS STRONG.