A Big Step Forward in the Fight Against Childhood Brain Cancer
In a heartwarming show of support, top financial advisors and their firms came together to donate $1.5 million to a cause close to many hearts: finding a cure for childhood brain cancer. This generous contribution will go towards a groundbreaking clinical trial for a vaccine therapy that could change the lives of children battling a rare and aggressive form of brain tumor.
A Mission That Hits Home
The event, held at a recent advisor summit, brought together some of the brightest minds in finance to support a mission that hits home for many. The money raised will be used to fund a clinical trial at Children’s Minnesota, where doctors Anne Bendel and Maggie Skrypek are testing a vaccine therapy for diffuse midline glioma (DMG). This type of brain tumor is particularly invasive and has a survival rate of less than 5%, making it a pressing issue for researchers and families alike.
A Promising Alternative to Traditional Treatments
The vaccine therapy being tested is a promising alternative to traditional treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. It works by stimulating the patient’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. Dr. Bendel, a pediatric oncologist, explained that glioma tumors affect the brain’s support cells, and the current prognosis for patients is grim, with a life expectancy of just nine to 11 months after diagnosis.
A Powerful Moment of Connection
The campaign is part of an ongoing partnership between SHOOK Research and the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood cancer. The event was a powerful moment, with R. J. Shook, co-founder of SHOOK Research, and his son Jacob taking the stage to ask advisors for their support. Jacob, who recently graduated from Lynn University, shared his family’s deep connection to the cause, having grown up with a mission to fight for children’s lives.
A Heartfelt Thank You
One of the most touching moments of the event was when R. J. spoke to Eva, an eight-year-old girl battling brain cancer, who could potentially benefit from the vaccine therapy. Eva’s simple yet heartfelt words, "Thank you for helping me," received a standing ovation from the audience. R. J. emphasized the importance of the cause, stating, "No child should be left behind," and shared his personal journey of dedicating his life to saving children after losing his mother to breast cancer at a young age.
A Legacy of Giving
The Shook family has been actively involved in raising funds for childhood cancer research, with a focus on treatments for children who have run out of options. Their efforts have raised over $10 million, mostly for the Children’s Cancer Research Fund. SHOOK Research, founded in 2015, recognizes outstanding financial advisors through a rigorous due diligence process, and their rankings are published by Forbes. The advisors or their firms do not pay to be ranked, ensuring the integrity of the process.
Major Firms Step Up
Major firms pledged significant gifts at the 2025 Forbes | SHOOK Top Advisor Summit, including:
- Merrill Wealth Management
- Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
- UBS Wealth Management
- Future Standard
This collective effort highlights the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together for a common cause.