10 July, 2009: The Organisation of Helene and Helene-Cypriot Women of Australia (OEEGA) recently held their annual fundraising dinner raising more than $40,000 for the Children’s Cancer Institute Australia for Medical Research (CCIA).

Over the last two years the event has raised more than $76,000 from the local community with the money raised going towards fundamental pieces of equipment used by CCIA researchers.

Professor Michelle Haber AM, Executive Director CCIA revealed 600 Australian children were diagnosed with cancer every year, 150 tragically losing their lives.

“With the help of the passionate and committed OEEGA members, the money raised will be used to purchase safety cabinets that allow our researchers to grow cancer cells under sterile and safe conditions,” Professor Haber said.

“Each research program at CCIA relies on a range of modern equipment to be able to remain at the frontier of childhood cancer research worldwide,” Professor Haber said.

The majority of childhood cancer survivors have one or more chronic health problems as a direct result of the treatment, ranging from infertility to learning difficulties.

“CCIA is the only independent medical research institute in Australia dedicated to research into the causes, prevention, better treatments and ultimately a cure for childhood cancer,” Professor Haber said.

OEEGA President, Vicky Mar, said they were committed to supporting CCIA in the future and congratulated the dedication of the researchers.

“We hope with our support, CCIA will now be one step further in guaranteeing all children with cancer a better and improved quality of life,” Vicky said.

“CCIA is truly grateful to OEEGA members and its many supporters for their continued support equipment and facilities that would assist in their aim, which is to find a cure for childhood cancer,” Professor Haber concluded.

Contact

PR & Communications, Children’s Cancer Institute Australia

Ph: (02) 9385 8879  |  Email: media@ccia.org.au

Images are available upon request. Photos/filming in the labs can be arranged.