Jerry Steinberg

For more than five decades, Louisville native Jerry Steinberg has dedicated his life to serving others—first through a storied legal career and civic leadership, and later, through a deeply personal mission to support cancer patients and their families. A UofL graduate and lifelong community volunteer, Jerry embodies a spirit of compassion that has shaped every step of his journey. Yet no role has been more meaningful than father to Meghan, whose courageous battle with leukemia forever transformed his life and continues to inspire countless others today. As President of Meghan’s Mountain, the foundation created by his daughter, Jerry has worked tirelessly to support patients through the UofL Health — Brown Cancer Center (BCC) BCT Patient Support Fund, where 100% of contributions directly benefit cancer patients and their families.

Meghan was just 22 when she was diagnosed in 2005. During the 11 years she climbed her mountain, the Steinberg family found more than world‑class medical care at the UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center: they found love, humanity, and a team that embraced them as their own. It was not only the oncologists’ expertise that made the difference; it was the nurses who stayed after long shifts to sit with Meghan, the staff who listened to every fear and need, and even the simple act of decorating a new hospital room to lift her spirits during her final weeks. “People need to know you become family at the Brown,” Jerry reflects. “The love and support are always there for patients and for the people who love them. Once you are family, you remain family.”

During Meghan’s battle, she created Meghan’s Mountain to offer direct, meaningful support to others facing cancer. It was during Meghan’s early treatments that she recognized a truth many outside the cancer community never see: the overwhelming financial strain placed on patients and families. She met parents choosing between prescription co‑pays and their children’s shoes, families separated by the high cost of care, and individuals forced to weigh medical decisions against the loss of income. Meghan wanted to “make sure every child and adult knew they did not climb their mountain alone.”  That spirit has guided projects such as donations of recliners and blanket warmers for the infusion clinic, meals for inpatients, Christmas parties, gift card distributions, and support for Capture the Moment, where families battling cancer receive professional photographs. “We wanted our donations to touch patients and families directly,” Jerry explains. “The Brown Cancer Center makes that possible.”

Now, Jerry is championing one of the foundation’s most meaningful initiatives yet: a dedicated rehabilitation space on the 5th floor of the new UofL Hospital Tower, which will serve exclusively oncology patients. The new space, Meghan’s Gym, honors Meghan’s belief in the healing power of movement. “Exercise gave Meghan strength, purpose, and hope,” Jerry says. “We want other patients to feel that same lift as they climb their mountains.” The gym will support patients in regaining strength during and after treatment, and its location on the oncology floor ensures accessibility for those undergoing intensive care.

Jerry’s deep commitment to the Brown Cancer Center has touched countless lives and strengthened the compassionate culture that defines the institution. His recognition as the 2025 Mary Jane Gift Volunteer of the Year reflects not only his service, but the authenticity of his motivation. “Meghan and I were a team,” Jerry shares. “Before she passed, she asked that her foundation continue. My wife, Leslye, became my new partner, and because of her love and support, Meghan’s Mountain has been able to continue touching those affected by cancer.” Together, they honor her memory by supporting patients who need not only exceptional medical treatment, but also compassion, stability, and hope. Their story underscores what the Brown Cancer Center makes possible: a place where innovation meets humanity, and where donor support transforms lives every single day. For those searching for a way to make a meaningful difference, the Steinbergs offer a powerful reminder: your generosity can help someone find strength, dignity, and love at the moment they need it most.

You can continue Meghan’s legacy of compassion by supporting Meghan’s Gym today.