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Shaker Family Charitable Foundation

Generosity Meets Purpose

Established in 1986 as a private family foundation, the Shaker Family Charitable Foundation focuses its philanthropy on initiatives that improve health, strengthen communities, and uplift children and families.

As a Playmaker Partner, the foundation’s investment helps advance high-impact research, foster critical clinical collaborations, and empower families through programs such as My DIPG Navigator. Their dedication to creating lasting, meaningful change aligns deeply with the ChadTough Defeat DIPG mission to translate scientific progress into real-world outcomes for children diagnosed with DIPG and the families who love them.

Honoring Owen

Owen Petrzelka, the beloved son of Amanda Shaker and Adam Petrzelka, was just five years old when he was diagnosed with DIPG in April 2020. Bright, determined, and full of life, Owen dreamed of becoming a ninja one day. He was a proud big brother to Sydney and Wyatt, and his joyful spirit continues to inspire all who knew and loved him.

In the wake of Owen’s diagnosis the Shaker family’s commitment to defeating DIPG deepened in profound ways. Amanda and Adam have become dedicated Family Partners of the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation, honoring Owen through heartfelt advocacy, community leadership, and ongoing engagement with our mission.

At the same time, the Shaker Family Charitable Foundation, led by Amanda’s extended family, partners with ChadTough as a Research Partner, helping to fund high-impact scientific initiatives that aim to accelerate breakthroughs for children diagnosed with DIPG.

Together, this dual partnership reflects a powerful, multigenerational commitment—one rooted in love for Owen and a shared determination to create a better future for families facing this devastating disease.

“We miss our Owen and this hurts more than we ever thought possible. We’ve tried channeling some of our pain into a passion to raise funds and awareness, so others don’t have to experience what we have.”

– Amanda Shaker, Owen’s mom

Owen’s story

Shaker Family Charitable Foundation

Generosity Meets Purpose

Honoring Owen

The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation is incredibly grateful for the sustained support of our Playmaker Partners.

You Can Help

1-on-1 Support

Shaker Family Charitable Foundation

Generosity Meets Purpose

Honoring Owen

The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation is incredibly grateful for the sustained support of our Playmaker Partners.

Donate to Fund DIPG Research & Support

You Can Help

1-on-1 Support

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