The impact of your support is felt every day here at our labs at Children's Cancer Institute. Like you, each of our 258 researchers believe that a life should be long. Every child should get the chance to grow up and grow old. To plan exciting futures, chase their dreams, and fulfill their potential.
However, cancer cuts life short for hundreds of children every year before they have a chance to shine. Here in Australia, we have more than 1000 children and adolescents being diagnosed with cancer every single year, which means that even if they survive their diagnosis, their lives and those around them will be changed forever.
Everything we do at Children’s Cancer Institute is about ensuring that every child with cancer not only survives but goes on to lead a long and healthy life. With you by our side, this year we have made exciting progress towards this goal.
We’re delighted to share with you some of the progress that you have made happen, progress that moves us closer to this vision. We hope you feel proud of your contribution, because we simply couldn’t achieve what we have so far without you.
A message from Dr Maria Tsoli
Dr Maria Tsoli is a Senior Scientist in our Brain Tumours Group here at the Institute. From leading the development of crucial pre-clinical models for the Zero Childhood Cancer Program, to leading Australia-first research efforts into treatment strategies for brain cancers like DIPG, Maria is carrying out incredibly important work in her field.
"When I meet parents who have lost their children to brain cancer, their enormous strength and will to support our research through the donation of their child's autopsy samples is something that I never forget"
Thanks to you, Dr Maria Tsoli has the ability to put this strength and will into her research. She wanted to share how enormously grateful she is to everyone who donated to our appeal last year with this video message.
A message from Maria
"Maria essentially grew up in hospital. All her milestones happened in hospital - she started walking in there, she said her first words in there" - Cathy, Maria's mum.
Maria was only three months old when she began her journey of medical visits and respiratory issues, eventually leading to a diagnosis with neuro-ectodermal tumour (PNET), a cancer rarely found in infants'
Every day Maria is affected by the cancer treatment that was needed to save her life.
Today in 2024, Maria will celebrate 14 years in remission - an incredible milestone that still amazes her parents teachers and doctors."
Maria wanted to share some kind words to convey her gratitude to you, for supporting our research to help children like her.
Thank you for helping us help children. We couldn't do it without you
