September's Nonprofit Spotlight is on ChadTough!
The mission of the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation is to inspire and fund game-changing research to discover effective treatments for pediatric brain cancer, with an emphasis on diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG).
Brain cancer is killing more kids than any other type of cancer. DIPG represents 10% of all pediatric brain tumors but nearly 50% of all pediatric brain cancer deaths.
The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation funds the most innovative, promising research on DIPG, which is underfunded compared to most cancers. The foundation is powered by parents who have faced a pediatric brain cancer diagnosis with their own children, many of whom have unfortunately passed away. The ChadTough Defeat DIPG research program is guided by a Scientific Advisory Council made up of the leading experts in the field.
Details
Events to support ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation
RunTough for ChadTough
October 1, 2022
7:45 am
Participate in Saline, MI, or virtually from anywhere! ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation is excited to host the 9th Annual RunTough 5K and 1M Fun Run, which will be held both virtually and in person at Saline High School Stadium in Michigan on October 1, 2022. This family-friendly 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run is the foundation’s longest-running event.
Dream Big Gala
November 12, 2022
The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Dream Big Gala raises funds for research for a cure for DIPG, the deadliest childhood brain cancer. Their program will spotlight the critical work being done to create hope and a bright future for children fighting DIPG. This important and meaningful evening will include festive cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by a delicious seated dinner. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on a range of fantastic items, including *dream* experiences, in their exciting silent and live auction. Hosted at the Bethesda North Marriott in Rockville, Maryland.
What is DIPG
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a brain tumor found in a part of the brain stem called the pons. The pons controls essential bodily functions such as heartbeat, breathing, swallowing, eye movement, eyesight, and balance.
DIPG affects children almost exclusively. Approximately 200-400 children in the United States are diagnosed with DIPG each year. These children are typically between the ages of 4 and 11. DIPG accounts for roughly 10-15% of all brain tumors in children.
DIPG is an aggressive tumor that interferes with all bodily functions, depriving a child of the ability to move, to communicate, and even to eat and drink.
As a DIPG tumor begins to grow, it puts pressure on the nerves that control the essential bodily functions regulated by the pons. Children with DIPG commonly experience double vision, reduced eye movement, facial weakness or asymmetry, and arm and leg weakness. They also have problems with walking, coordination, speech, chewing, and swallowing. As the tumor progresses, it also interferes with breathing and heartbeat, which ultimately results in the child’s death.
What does ChadTough do
The foundation is fueled by parents committed to changing the outcome for future families facing a pediatric brain cancer diagnosis, especially DIPG, in honor of their children. The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation knows that we are tougher together. The families at the heart of the foundation’s work are passionate about fighting for a cure so future families can experience a different, more hopeful journey.
While the survival rate for DIPG is still nearly 0%, doctors now believe a cure for DIPG is within reach. The ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation will continue to be a part of this fight until DIPG is no longer a death sentence.
How to support ChadTough
Through donations, volunteering, or hosting your own fundraiser in support of their fantastic and crucial work. You can donate directly by clicking the 'donate' button on this page or throughout September you'll find donation bins at registers of Zingerman's businesses if you'd like to contribute cash. Zingerman's Deli will also have a special Sandwich of the Month, the Chadwink! For every Chadwink sold, the Deli will donate $2 to ChadTough, which is also being matched by the Zatkoff family in honor of all the children and families impacted by DIPG.
If you'd like to find out ways to volunteer, please sign up at chadtough.org/ways-to-give/volunteer-opportunities/
Why Zingerman's loves ChadTough
The children and families that face these unimaginable battles deserve a strong support network and this horrendous illness demands research so that it won't harm anyone else. The stories of bravery that ChadTough shares are inspiring. We hope that you'll learn more about the crucial work they're doing and join us in supporting them as a community partner.