

History of The DB Foundation:
The DB Foundation is a not for profit educational foundation founded by Kate B. Leonardi in January of
2006 focusing on education and awareness of risky teen behaviors. Kate was stunned to learn of one
risky behavior in particular, the Choking Game, after her 11 year old son, Dylan, passed away in October
2005. In the few years since, The DB Foundation has become a nationally recognized organization. We
have been quoted in The New York Times (pg 1 Feb 2007) and The US Centers for Disease Control
(MMWR Feb 2008), and cited as a statistical source for Choking Game data on NBC's TODAY show (April
24, 2009) to name a few.
Our Philosophy:
The DB Foundation operates on a 'community based and community driven' philosophy. As a
community, we each bring to the table our own personal, often tragic, experience and knowledge. It is
each one of these voices, coming together creating our passion and united front as we gain ground on
reaching other communities for the sake of education and preventative measures against dangerous
adolescent behaviors. Not a single voice is ever turned away from wishing to help join our forces.
The Mission of The DB Foundation:
Our mission is to establish and implement awareness and educational programs regarding dangerous
adolescent behaviors to parents, schools, law enforcement, Health Care Professionals and children for
the purpose of injury prevention and risk reduction. This will be achieved through changing legislation,
providing seminars, school assemblies, community presentations, a website presence, an availability to
the media and a quarterly newsletter and providing, free of charge, educational materials such as
brochures to those seeking this information.
The DB Foundation Community
We welcome anyone who has a common philosophy and goal of raising awareness about the dangers
of The Choking Game. Our army of volunteers has reached millions people directly with the message of
the Dangers of The Choking Game. Volunteers often begin by raising awareness within their own
community, Some are front and center, in the spotlight and other enjoy a more behind the scenes role.
All are important to reaching our goal of injury prevention and risk reduction.
The DBF army of volunteers welcome additional assistance in conducting research, corresponding with
families, maintaining data and references and more! If you would like more info on joining our army
please email us!


" The Choking Game " Advocating Education of the Dangers Choking Game.net
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COPYRIGHT The DB Foundation 2005-2009 All Rights Reserved The DB Foundation LLC .A Non Profit Educational Foundation 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization Status Pending Note: Information on this website is not intended to take the place of medical advice.
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Kate has been with The DB Foundation since it's creation in 2006. She was the single parent of her only child, Dylan
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Kate B. Leonardi Founding Director
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Trish Russell, MD Physician Liaison
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Dale and Michele Galloway Outreach / Legislation Coordinator
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Dale and Michele Galloway became a part of the
DB Foundation in 2007 after the loss of their son,
Connor. As career educators they realized that
the lack of clear and comprehensive education
about the choking game played a role in the loss
of their child. Since Connor’s death they have
dedicated their time and efforts is issues
involving health education reform. They have
been guest speakers at schools and community
organizations, advocates for legislative changes
About The DB Foundation
(11 yrs old) when he passed away and she first
learned of The Choking Game.
Kate's role with The DB Foundation has changed
as the foundation has grown through the years.
Currently, Kate provides educational speaking
engagements nationwide. She also volunteers
as the HotLine for media, newly bereaved
parents and general inquiries.
Kate's responsibilities at The DB Foundation also
include contributing to research and Foundation
development and maintenance of information on
the website and member coordination.
in North Carolina and nationally, and have provided a DVD in cooperation with
Asheville City Schools that addresses many examples of adolescent risky
behaviors and their relevance to health education reform.