Charlie "Chaz" didn't let a midnight MRI diagnosis stop him from hitting the pavement. The 13-year-old walked his fourth annual birthday 5K in 2025, battling a herniated disc that caused significant leg weakness in the weeks prior. He finished the course alongside friends, turning a physical limitation into a community gathering that netted $4,000 for two distinct causes.
The money breaks down precisely: $3,000 went to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) to support research and family resources, while the remaining $1,000 funded awareness for neuroendocrine carcinoma. That second cause is personal. A member of his family is currently battling the rare, aggressive cancer, making the fundraising effort intimate rather than just a generic charity run.
Chaz's mother noted that her son has never considered cancelling the event, even when his own health took a hit. The tradition has grown into a fixture for their community, drawing supporters who want to back children affected by brain tumours. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the visibility. Chaz is using his platform to push for better care policies and research funding.
His commitment extends well beyond the birthday run. In November 2025, he joined PBTF and the Boston Celtics for the “Move4Heather” event, rallying friends for a 50/50 auction. During the holidays, he organized a grocery gift-card drive, distributing bags of fudge and essential goods to families in need. A group known as the “Chaz Bus Crew” has rallied behind him, supporting his goal of executing a charitable act every single month.