1st fundraiser on Saturday for new foundation in memory of Koleson Meakin

Proceeds from chicken BBQ go to other families with children facing serious medical issues

Photo by Tom Rivers: Dominique and Brady Meakin are pictured with a photo of their late son, Koleson, who passed away on Jan. 3 at age 4. Koleson lived with TPK1 Thiamine-Deficient Leigh Disease, a rare genetic condition.

MEDINA – Brady and Dominique Meakin want to offer compassion to other families with children facing serious medical issues.

The Meakins’ son Koleson lived with a rare genetic condition, TPK1 Thiamine-Deficient Leigh Disease. Koleson was 4 when he passed away on Jan. 3, 2026.

His family has started a foundation in his honor. Cared for Koleson has its first fundraiser this Saturday at the Glenwood Lake boat launch, not far from Koleson’s grave at Boxwood Cemetery.

There will be chicken barbecues from Chiavetta’s from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $17 presale and $18 the day of the event. Click here for more information on tickets.

Brady and Dominique, both 28, said they feel fortunate the local community was so helpful while their son fought his condition, often requiring extended hospital stays. They met other parents with children in the hospital, and some of them didn’t have a strong support system.

The Meakins started the foundation to initially raise money for gift cards for DoorDash, Uber Eats and the hospital cafe for the families. They know a good meal and cup of coffee can provide a momentary lift.

The Meakins plan to give the gift cards to the children’s hospitals in Rochester and Buffalo.

This Saturday’s fundraiser is close to Koleson’s fifth birthday which is on Aug. 31.

“We are thankful for all the support we had,” Dominique said. “But a lot of other parents, including single mothers, don’t have that kind of help.”

Dominique is a Medina graduate and Brady graduated from Albion. They met at the former GCC campus in Albion, taking a class together.

Dominque is president of the new foundation with Brady the director. Other family and friends are assisting with the foundation, including one of Koleson’s nurses. Click here to see the foundation’s website which was designed by Brady’s brother, Zandyr.

They hope the foundation can eventually help provide some financial assistance to families where parents may not be able to keep working full-time due to the care needs for their child.

The Meakins said they are grateful for their son, Koleson, who loved having his stuffed bear close by.

“His smile was the best in the world, lighting up every room,” they state on the foundation’s website. “He never complained. He continued to shine. He continued to have faith. He inspired everyone he met. This foundation exists to carry his light forward.”