World Cancer Day 2016
To celebrate the World Cancer Day 2016 ‘We can. I can.’ we take a look at how Fight Cancer Foundation’s programs and services play a part in reducing the global burden of cancer, and how we will continue in the fight against cancer – and for a cure.
A home away from home
Fight Cancer Foundation’s accommodation centres in Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania continue to provide an economical home away from home for hundreds of cancer patients and their carers and families each year. This helps alleviate financial stress and provides support and comfort for patients who have to travel long distances to receive treatment. Further planning is currently underway for the expansion of our Albury facility, Hilltop.
BMDI Cord Blood Bank
The BMDI Cord Blood Bank (CBB) was established by Fight Cancer Foundation in 1997 and operates in partnership with the Royal Children’s Hospital and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Cord blood transplants are used to treat leukaemia and genetic, immunological and blood disorders, and is one of the most commonly used sources of the cells needed for bone marrow transplantation.
Last year, the BMDI CBB banked over 625 cord blood units and listed a remarkable 1406 cord blood units on the international bone marrow donor registry. As a result, 13 cord blood units were released for bone marrow transplant, with five used for Australian patients and eight sent to international patients.
Education support programs
Fight Cancer Foundation’s education support programs provide a rich experience for children and young people so their journey as learners continues while they receive treatment for cancer. The program aims to make the transition back to school as seamless as possible by keeping learners connected to their regular learning environment and peers.
Established at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, last year the program launched at the Kids Cancer Centre at the Sydney Children’s Hospital and the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Adelaide. Fight Cancer Foundation aims to continue expanding the program so that no child or young person in Australia will be educationally disadvantaged by their cancer treatment.
Research
Fight Cancer Foundation continues to fund cutting edge research to improve the treatment methods and outcomes for people living with cancer. Innovative translational research (research that “translates” into effective medical practice and positive health outcomes) through organisations such as the Australian Cancer Research Laboratories will continue to be at the forefront of the fight against cancer.
