Life can change in an instant...Leslie and Mel need our help.
On November 21st, while taking her beloved dog Mel out for their ritual morning stroll, Leslie and Mel were tragically hit by a truck and severely injured.
Leslie has always been the first to show up for others in their times of need. Now, in this unimaginable moment, it’s our turn to show up for her.
Leslie was airlifted to a trauma center with multiple fractures, injuries, and lacerations. She remains in critical care with a traumatic brain injury that will require time and further evaluation to understand the depth of its impact.
Mel, her constant Aussie Doodle companion, also suffered severe injuries, including a broken femur, fractured pelvis, and a dislocated hip. He has undergone surgery and is beginning his road to recovery.
It is still too early to know what their full recovery will entail, but we do know it will be long, complex, and costly. Leslie and Mel will need access to top-tier medical care, rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy that may not be fully covered by insurance to help them return to the active lifestyle they love.
Any contribution—big or small—will make a meaningful difference in supporting Leslie and Mel on their journey to recovery.
We have chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live, a charitable non-profit with a 5-star Charity Navigator rating, in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors, are eligible for matching contributions from employers and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses. It’s easy to donate online or by check.
Updates (1)
December 1, 2025
We are absolutely heartbroken to share the news that Leslie passed away on Sunday November 30th surrounded by her family members and favorite music. The doctors discovered over the weekend that the traumatic brain injury she sustained in the accident was much too profound and diffuse for her to recover from.Leslie was a confidant, colleague, collaborator, friend, mentor, and peer to so many of us and our hearts are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible love, beautiful messages and generous support that this community offered in her time of greatest need. It is a true testament to her indomitable spirit!The funds we have raised in her honor will be essential to supporting the mounting medical expenses for both Mel (recovering at home) and Leslie and can also be used to defray end-of-life expenses. If there are any additional funds remaining, they will be granted in Leslie’s honor to cover medical & related expenses for others who have suffered similar catastrophic injuries.Details on a service will be coming soon, and I will post them here. Don't hesitate to reach out to me if you need an ear to listen.With gratitude,Stephanie McAlaine (on behalf of Tracey Whittet, Paula Saranac, Susan Weller & Susan Szymanski)
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Guestbook
December 20, 2025
I was absolutely devastated to hear of Leslie’s passing. I feel incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her and to truly get to know her. She was passionate, kind, thoughtful, and an inspiring leader whose presence made a meaningful difference to everyone around her. I loved hearing about her adventures exploring NM, her travels and talking about her buddy, Mel. She left a lasting impression on me both personally and professionally, and we remained in touch beyond our work together. She has been on my heart, and she will be deeply missed.
Beckie McLuckie
December 18, 2025
Our hearts are heavy with the loss of Leslie, with whom we have worked and enjoyed our relationship.
On behalf of the board of the RIMS Northern Alberta Chapter, we are donating $350, equal to the proceeds of our 2025 holiday mixer.
NARIMS Ken Baker
December 3, 2025
I was saddened to hear of Leslie's passing. She was such a beacon of light, friendship and love for me and all who have known her. My condolences to her family.
Rich Brown
December 3, 2025
I have known Leslie for too many years to count and I am so grateful for her friendship. Like a lot of us, Leslie was a mentor to me as well when I took over ACG Pittsburgh. She was an advocate and all around wonderful person.
She is in God\'s arms now.......
Praying for all of her family and friends and Mel too.
Kelly Szejko
December 3, 2025
The entire team at Association Analytics wishes to convey our sincere condolences to Leslie\'s family, friends and colleagues at RIMS. Members of our team have interacted with Leslie several times over the years and enjoyed her wit and intelligence.
Alex DeBarr (CEO, Association Analytics)
December 2, 2025
Words cannot describe the feeling of loss. Praying for Leslie’s family, friends, co-workers, and Mel. Heart broken friend.
Barry Brown
December 2, 2025
Leslie was exceptionally kind, generous, and thoughtful. Her bright energy lit up every room she entered, and she will be deeply missed. I’ll never forget how, instead of sending an email, she personally called me to share that I’d received an award, such a genuine and personable gesture. Sending thoughts and prayers to her family and friends.
Megan Smalter
December 2, 2025
Rest in peace, Leslie. Your energy will be sorely missed.
Kerri Kwolek
December 2, 2025
This is such sad news. I don\'t know what to say other than I am so grateful for Leslie and how she touched my life. Sending so much love to her, her family and close friends.
Jill Cohen
December 2, 2025
Heartbroken…
Mona Buckley
December 2, 2025
Saddened beyond words to hear about this tragic accident. Leslie was more than a colleague, she was a friend and the glue that held ACG’s team together. Horrific news.
Does dear Mel have a forever home? We owe it to dear Leslie’s memory to care for her beloved pup.
Marcie
Marcie Taylor
December 1, 2025
I am sorry for your loss. Leslie was so devoted to ACG Boston and building a great organization. She succeeded with her energy, spirit and great sense of humor. We all had fun.
We had a reunion a few years ago and we just picked up where we left off.
May you be comforted by your memories.
Minde Kornfeld
Minde Kornfeld
December 1, 2025
As an association colleague, anytime I saw Leslie, she was always smiling and loved life. She left us much too soon. Her sudden passing hits like a huge gut punch. To Leslie’s family, may all the great memories always remain close to your heart. ❤️
Sharon Swan
December 1, 2025
At a loss for words. I am so sorry and will be thinking of everyone.
Anonymous
December 1, 2025
I\'m so sorry for your loss. I only knew Leslie a short time but I knew right away she was fun, thoughtful, and caring. I was really looking forward to meeting her in person because I knew we were going to get along great.
Eric LeFeber
December 1, 2025
Leslie and I have been long-time work friends. We most recently enjoyed a meal together at a conference in Chicago in early November and coffee in LA this past August. Everywhere she went, her spirit was full of light and brightness. This is soul crushing news. I can\'t begin to imagine the shock and loss her loved ones are feeling. May they find comfort remembering all the joy Leslie found in life.
Mark Prevost
December 1, 2025
I have no words.
Elena Gerstmann
December 1, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss, Leslie was an incredible person. She made friends everywhere she went, and she helped her friends meet one another, widening the circle. She was truly an inspiration. Sending thoughts and prayers.
Jen Harrington
December 1, 2025
So sorry to hear the news. Leslie was a great mentor to me as a new staff member at ACG just over 10 years ago! I will miss running into her to catch up at ASAE every summer.
The world is definitely a bit dimmer today!
Gloria Kantor
December 1, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. Leslie was well liked and well loved in our association community. We were distant friends for a number of years and I always enjoyed her company. She will be missed by many.
Cecilia Sepp
December 1, 2025
Truly heartbreaking and there are simply no words. I feel honored to have met Leslie and she will be missed by so many.
Neil
December 1, 2025
Leslie was a wonderful mentor during a season of change and growth for me. I respected her deeply, but I also really enjoyed her company — two things that don’t always go together, especially in a boss! But Leslie had the skills, charisma, and humor. She was wise and she was fun.
Leslie was so effusive about her friends and family. (Mel included!) We will all miss her dearly, and my heart goes out to her loved ones. I’m so, so sorry.
Claire Alston
December 1, 2025
I am beyond heartbroken and at a loss for the right words to describe what a powerhouse and fierce friend and colleague Leslie was. Her family, including Mel, continue to be in my prayers and heart.
Christine Melendes
December 1, 2025
Get well, soon, Leslie! You and your puppy are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you. Nat
Natalie Bandyk
November 30, 2025
Prayers and continued support for Leslie - an amazing person who has always made a positive impact on friends, loved ones, and her professional community.
Perry Juliano
November 30, 2025
Leslie, you are an amazing person and friend. We are all here for you, and rooting for you. Sending love.
Debra
Debra Zabloudil
November 30, 2025
Dear Leslie, I am wishing you and Mel a full recovery and lots of hug time. Get well. Thinking of you, Melinda
Melinda Kramer
November 30, 2025
Leslie, sending you love and our very best wishes for a speedy and full recovery. We’re thinking of you and can’t wait to see you back with us, safe and well. You’re truly missed, and we’re here for you every step of the way!
Denise Osorio and Frank Montimurro
November 29, 2025
Keeping Leslie in my thoughts and prayers.
Pamela McKenna
November 29, 2025
I am so sad to hear of this accident and hopeful that Leslie will have a full recovery.
Some of my best childhood and young adult memories were with Leslie Whittet. She always had a good joke to tell and knew how to bring humor into most any situation. God knows we all need a good laugh at times. It seems unreal that she's been quieted in this way. Whatever her journey forward I will always see her warmth and vitality when I think of her. Wake up girl. Love you
Kelley Studholme
November 29, 2025
Leslie, wishing you strength and healing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Simons
November 29, 2025
Leslie, I’m keeping you in my thoughts and wishing you strength and healing.
Jen Simons
November 29, 2025
Leslie, I am so sorry you and Mel are going through this but you are not alone. Your friends are here for you and you have all our love and support. Please focus on getting better!
Jeff De Cagna
November 29, 2025
Leslie - we know you will pull through. Sending you so much love!
Brittany Timmerman
November 28, 2025
Thoughts and prayers for your healing and speedy recovery.
Annette Homan
November 28, 2025
Sending you strength and support in your recovery. You’re an incredible person, and you have a huge community of friends and colleagues here for you!
Tyler Craig
November 28, 2025
Sending love and prayers for recovery.
Kate Bensen
November 27, 2025
Hang in there Les.
Tom EASTHOPE
November 27, 2025
Leslie, I am keeping you in my thoughts and wishing you a full recovery. Thank you for being such an important part of my professional life.
Kerry Lennon
November 27, 2025
Get better every day! Love you!
Andrea Lytle
November 27, 2025
Wishing you strength and healing on your road to recovery. Can’t wait to see your beautiful smile again. ❤️
Christy Kaufman
November 27, 2025
Sending you lots of love, Les. Fight hard!
Rosemary Haenn
November 27, 2025
Leslie, you are in our hearts and thoughts. Praying for your speedy recovery. We are looking forward to you making us laugh and smile again.
David Sherman
November 27, 2025
Praying for a speedy recovery!
Ellen Auwarter
November 27, 2025
Pulling for you, fellow Charretter! Wishing you all the possible healing, Leslie.
Jay Karen
November 27, 2025
Leslie - The entire Avenue M team, Jon, myself, (and Zoey, Jonah, and Ellie) are sending you healing thoughts for a full recovery! I have the pool table all set for us to play three ball again.
Sheri
Sheri Jacobs
November 27, 2025
Leslie and Mel - We are thinking of you both, every day. Sheri & Jon
Sheri Jacobs
November 27, 2025
Leslie stay strong and get well soon!
Al Rickard
November 27, 2025
My prayers are with you as you recover from your injuries.
Renee Mosley
November 27, 2025
Thoughts are with Leslie and Mel at this time.
Tyler Vaughan
November 27, 2025
Thinking of you and wishing you strength on the road ahead.
Sara Giacalone
November 27, 2025
Praying for recovery
Lisa Yoest
November 27, 2025
Leslie and Mel, Love and courage, especially love. xx your friends, Laura, Rob, & Wyeth
Laura Sterkel
November 27, 2025
Dear Leslie,
We wish you hope and healing.
Anonymous
November 27, 2025
Leslie- I\'m so sorry to learn of this horrible accident. I am keeping you and Mel in my thoughts and prayers. I know the road to recovery will be long, but you got this. Hugs
Michelle Daley
November 27, 2025
Sending prayers and positive vibes for a full recovery!
Christine Dickman
November 27, 2025
Leslie, You will get through this! Sending hope and praying for your recovery!
Harriet Bogdanowicz
November 27, 2025
Leslie and Mel,
You will always have a special place in the CSAE community, and we want you to know how much we love and respect you! We send you prayers and hugs and good thoughts so that you can heal and find joy again.
Love,
Su Hawk
Su Hawk
November 26, 2025
Praying for a full recovery for Leslie and Mel.
Dan Scheeler
November 26, 2025
Be strong. You have lots of folks pulling for you.
Mary Jo Bollero
November 26, 2025
Leslie- I am completely devastated to hear about this terrible situation and all that you and Mel are so unfairly going through. I am sending countless positive thoughts for your healing journey ahead. You are so, so loved.
Maria Wolvin
November 26, 2025
Healing well Leslie and Mel. You need to be ready to dance around the kitchen with me!
Elaine Armstrong
November 26, 2025
Get well Leslie! We are saying our prayers for you and Mel.
John Kerschen
November 26, 2025
Your ACG community has you in their thoughts and prayers. Wishing you a safe and speedy recovery!
Amy Ruebsam, ACG St. Louis
November 26, 2025
Leslie, we’re all pulling for you and Mel! You have been such a force for good in the world…I hope you’ll be able to feel some comfort from all the love and support that your positive energy all these years has generated! — KiKi
KiKi L'Italien
November 26, 2025
Keeping you and Mel in my thoughts and prayers.
Cherise Dudziec
November 26, 2025
Leslie,
All the best wishes for you for a full and speedy recovery. Hugs and love, Lou
Lou Halstead
November 26, 2025
Sending you and Mel love, prayers & healing vibes.
Christy Dancause
November 26, 2025
Leslie - I am thinking of you, praying for you, and holding you in Light as you heal. You’ve always shown so much heart and courage, and I hope you feel that same strength surrounding you now. Wishing you comfort, steady recovery, and moments of peace in the days ahead. Love you, Kathy
Katherine Gledhill
November 26, 2025
The team at PropFuel is thinking of you and Mel and wishing you a fast recovery.
David Will
November 26, 2025
Once a fighter, always a fighter. You've got this! Sending positive energy your way for a full recovery.
Jo-Ann Maude
November 26, 2025
Keeping you and Mel in our thoughts and prayers!
Christie Weinstein and Family
November 26, 2025
Sending my love & prayers to Leslie & Mel
THERESA OBRIEN
November 26, 2025
Thinking of you and awesome your recovery will be.
Dean West
November 26, 2025
There are not enough words to describe how much you are loved Leslie. Your family and friends are here for you on this journey of recovery. None of know just what it will look like and we expect it to be a marathon not a sprint. We are praying for a miracle Leslie.
Doug price
November 26, 2025
Leslie is an amazing mentor and friend. Her leadership and kindness have made such an impact. Sending love and healing thoughts.
Liz Sakellarides
November 26, 2025
Praying for your recovery
Liana Watson
November 26, 2025
Dave and I send prayers and well wishes during your healing journey. All best to Leslie and Mel.
With love and hugs. Tami
Tami Harris
November 26, 2025
Thinking and praying for you Leslie!! <3
Bretany Pilko
November 26, 2025
Dear Leslie and Mel: I am thinking of you and I hope that you can be together again soon. Cecilia Sepp
Cecilia Sepp
November 26, 2025
My thoughts and prayers to Leslie and Mel, wishing them both a speedy recovery.
Kamy
November 26, 2025
Wishing you strength and comfort in your healing journey
Pam donahoo
November 26, 2025
Hi Leslie,
I just received the news of your accident from Helen. I hope you recover soon and well.
Maarten
Maarten de Jongh
November 26, 2025
Prayers for you in your recovery process and looking forward to working with you once able to return!
Mackenzie Riley
November 26, 2025
I am thinking of you often and you are in my prayers…
Kristen Peed
November 26, 2025
Praying for you, Leslie!
Christie Tarantino-Dean
November 26, 2025
All the love and healing to Leslie and Mel.
Lowell Aplebaum
November 26, 2025
Leslie -I’m sending healing vibes your way!!!
Julie Metsker
November 26, 2025
Leslie, please know you’re in our thoughts. We’re sending you love, strength, and all our support, and hoping for a speedy recovery. With warmest wishes, Sarah Kuhns, Chris Agar, and all of us here at GMW.
Sarah Kuhns
November 26, 2025
Sending prayers, strength and our support to Leslie. Much love, Nick Araco & family
Nick Araco
November 26, 2025
Sending love and prayers for healing, Leslie. ❤️
Diane McLevy
November 26, 2025
Sending love and support to you and Mel on your road to recovery. xo
Beth Seidl
November 26, 2025
Sending positive and healing vibes to you Leslie, I look forward to when we are next able to selfie together!
Greg Melia
November 26, 2025
Praying for your recovery Leslie! Looking forward to seeing your amazing smile, hearing your awesome laugh, and feeling your incredible hugs. Love you!
Michelle Mills Clement
November 26, 2025
Sending healing thoughts your way until I can be there in person to cheer you on your road to recovery my friend!
Stephanie McAlaine
November 26, 2025
Sending you lots of love, Leslie!
Kaitlyn Gregorio
November 26, 2025
We love you, Leslie Whittet, and you are in our daily thoughts and prayers. Karen, Catie and I join your many friends and colleagues in supporting you and all those facing catastrophic injuries. Thank you to Help Hope Live for providing a platform that allows us to express our support and love for Leslie and all those facing catastrophic injury.
Gary LaBranche
