How Joanna Cowells Used Her Crown to Shine a Light on DIPG
When Joanna Cowells was crowned the 2024 Michigan Peach Queen of Romeo, she saw more than a crown and a title — she saw an opportunity to make a difference. A lifelong University of Michigan football fan, Joanna had grown up knowing the story of Chad Carr, the youngest grandson of former U-M head football coach Lloyd Carr, whose brave battle with DIPG captured the hearts of thousands.
“I remember how communities rallied around Chad during his fight,” Joanna said. “That story stayed with me, and I’ve followed the ChadTough Foundation ever since.”
But it wasn’t until DIPG touched her own community that Joanna knew she wanted to do more.
“In 2023, a Romeo family’s son was diagnosed with DIPG,” she recalled. “I met them at the Romeo Christmas Parade. Their son was just like any other kid — playful and full of life. Meeting him broke my heart. I knew if I became Peach Queen, I would use that platform to support families like theirs.”
And she did.
Throughout her reign, Joanna used every opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation. From hosting bottle and can drives to partnering with local businesses and even taking her turn in the dunk tank at the Peach Festival, Joanna raised both money and awareness for the fight against childhood brain cancer.
“Many people asked me what DIPG is,” she said. “That’s when I realized how important education and advocacy are. Supporting ChadTough went beyond fundraising — it was about honoring these kids and helping their stories be heard.”
Joanna’s reign as Peach Queen may have officially ended, but her impact — and her passion for making a difference — will last far beyond a single festival season.
“I feel so grateful to have had this opportunity,” she said. “Using my voice for something that matters has been the greatest honor.”
