Adventurers deliver on a promise to help kids with cancer
A state of the art 3D molecular imager that will help children's brain tumour researchers monitor how brain tumours grow has been delivered to the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, thanks to the AHG Adventurers and PMH Foundation.
The Adventurers, led by Rick Parish and Peter Wilson, raised funds for the machine by leading a team of WA climbers up Mont Blanc in September.
The imager has been dubbed "Elliot's Machine" after Rick Parish's 3 year old son, who is currently battling medulloblastoma (a brain tumour).
Research leader Dr Nick Gottardo says the imager is the only one of its kind in Western Australia.
"Elliot's Machine will fast track our research at the Institute by permitting real-time, non-invasive monitoring of brain tumour cells in laboratory models of childhood brain tumours to determine the usefulness of new drugs," Dr Gottardo said.
Through collaborations with the pharmaceutical industry Dr Nick Gottardo and his team are assessing several promising novel drugs designed to target brain tumour specific molecules, which are required for the survival of brain tumour cells. Brain tumour cells are tagged with fluorescent colours which allows them to be seen using the 3D molecular imager.
The imager will greatly accelerate the pace of research and the process of finding more effective treatments for children affected with brain tumours.
AHG Adventurers leader Rick Parish said it was very satisfying to see the machine delivered and about to be put into action.
"The Adventurers have come together from all walks of life to make a difference to sick kids! We are excited about the future through our association with Telethon and Telethon Institute for Child Health Research. Next year our aim is to raise in excess of 2 million dollars".
PMH Foundation Chairman Ian Campbell said it was a terrific fundraising effort from the AHG Adventurers that had allowed the Foundation to donate the state-of-the-art 3D imaging machine.
"This machine takes the fantastic research work done at PMH to a new level."
"All Western Australian families know what wonderful treatment is available at WA's iconic children's hospital and new research findings which will come as a result of the introduction of this equipment, will lead to even better outcomes for children in the future," he said.
The imager goes into service on Monday.
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About Medulloblastoma
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in children. With surgery and aggressive treatment, 50 to 60% of children can be cured of their disease. However, treatment often results in significant and long lasting side effects.