After losing their 14-year-old daughter, Leah Strickland, in a 2022 car crash, Emily and Michael Strickland have found meaningful ways to honor her memory — from launching a scholarship fund in her name to organizing the annual Leah’s Legacy 5K. Now, they’re preparing to open one of Leah’s favorite restaurants as part of that legacy.
“Every time we got to a town for travel soccer we would look for a Chicken Salad Chick,” Emily said. “It became one of Leah’s favorite places to go. We still look for one when we’re traveling, even to the beach. We want to share that joy and passion with others.”
What once felt like a distant dream is now becoming reality. The Stricklands are working to open three locations — in Charleston, Teays Valley and Parkersburg.
“Life’s been a roller coaster ever since everything happened,” Michael said. “There have been highs and lows. The community support has meant so much, but nothing’s going to bring Leah back. Still, that support helps.”
The family said the encouragement they’ve received since announcing the new restaurants has been overwhelming in the best way.
“We have to keep moving forward — Leah wouldn’t want us to stand still,” Emily said. “We’re celebrating her life, continuing the scholarships in her honor, and this is another way we can do that.”