About Us | Who We Are
Meet Marci
Foundation and Inspiration
Marci Schankweiler, the Founder & CEO of For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation (FPS), established the organization in the aftermath of a personal tragedy. Losing her husband, Pete, to testicular cancer at the age of 30, Marci transformed this devastating moment into an opportunity for change. As a tax attorney and litigator, she leveraged her unique business skills and emotional insights as a caregiver to launch a non-profit inspired by Pete. This section delves into the origins of FPS and Marci’s pivotal decision to embark on a new direction in life.
Recognition and Impact
With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, Marci Schankweiler and FPS have garnered recognition from diverse organizations and publications. The accolades include acknowledgments from notable entities such as LIVESTRONG, People Magazine, Major League Baseball, and renowned institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and Fox Chase Cancer Center. This section highlights the widespread recognition and impact of Marci’s work in the realm of adult cancer patient support, positioning FPS as a key player in the field.
Advocacy, Education, and Personal Pursuits
Marci’s commitment extends beyond the organizational realm. Her passion for inspiring others and building impactful non-profit organizations has positioned her as a sought-after speaker for businesses, schools, and healthcare organizations. This section delves into Marci’s advocacy efforts, shedding light on her focus areas such as non-profit implementation and management, the benefits of Travel and Staycation Respite for adult cancer patients and caregivers, and the broader theme of embracing life’s “pivot moments.” Additionally, it explores Marci’s earlier career as a litigator and tax attorney, her academic contributions as an adjunct professor, and her personal pursuits, emphasizing her love for family gatherings, beach celebrations, and active involvement in her family’s bakery, Maryann Pastry Shoppe.
FPS has been awarded a perfect score by Charity Navigator, a feat accomplished by less than one-tenth of one percent of charities! As the end of 2023 approaches, we encourage you to make your gift by December 31! By choosing to support FPS, you are not just donating to a charity; you can give with confidence and know that your donation will have a direct impact on the 795 people we plan to serve this year with over 76,000 hours of respite.