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Michael’s gift to future generations


“Many drops make an ocean” – Michael hopes many more people consider leaving a gift in their Will to cancer research because he knows that together, we can create an ocean of difference and a world without cancer. 

I was 9 or 10 when my cousin, Pui Fun passed away from leukemia. She was 7. We sort of grew up and played together in the extended Chinese family in those days. Any sort of serious illness was pretty much not talked about with the children.

Something seemed amiss when at our family gatherings at our grandparents’ place, she and her siblings were missing. Our family gatherings happened almost every weekend when my aunts and uncles would all bring their children – there would be at least 5 to 8 of us.

The adults would chat, play mahjong, prepare food and mill around. The children would all play together in various groups or as a large group. My cousin had a younger sister (about 3 years younger) and a baby brother. As I was the eldest, I’m usually tasked with looking after the younger children. 

One weekend we were just told that she’d been ill and had passed away. We went to the funeral wake and I remember that it was quiet and sombre. Uncle and Auntie had red swollen eyes, signs they had been crying. I was allowed to view Pui Fun’s body. It was surreal and I couldn’t feel any emotion at all – just dumbstruck that she was no longer going to come to the family gatherings. I was told that she passed from cancer of the blood. I didn’t know what that meant at the time, just that it sounded so serious and terminal. That was my first experience of a young person’s death. 

That was more than 40 years ago and my memory of her remains vivid as she’s always the giggly little girl and I was her older “brother”.  

When it came time to write my Will and I had the opportunity to leave a gift that would have a lasting impact, I decided to include ACRF to help fund more vital cancer research. I believe that finding better treatments for cancer will one day prevent other children from losing their playmates, their siblings, and the people they love. It’s just something small I could do and it may even help my own family or future generations one day.

I liked the idea of being able to contribute in the way that “many drops make an ocean”, and I do hope many more people consider leaving a gift in Will to cancer research – collectively we can create the ocean of difference to create a world without cancer.


ACRF has partnered with Safewill, Australia’s leading online Will writing platform, to give you the opportunity to create a bespoke Will from the comfort of your home. Take up this FREE online Will offer today. Offer limited to 50 Wills, ends 30 September 2023.

If you would like guidance on how to leave a gift in your Will to ACRF, our planned giving team can support you. Call 1300 884 988 or email bequests@acrf.com.au 

We dare you to go wild with your hair for brilliant cancer research. A full shave, a crazy cut, or a splash of colour. Take on the ACRF Hair Dare to raise vital funds for world-class Australian cancer research. 

Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) dares you to help save lives by shaving, cutting, colouring or going wild with your locks for the year-round Hair Dare fundraiser. 

Funding world-class research for all cancer types, the ACRF Hair Dare is a unique opportunity for people of any age to support those affected by the devastating disease. An average of 444 Australians are diagnosed with cancer every day. 

Simply register at Australian Cancer Research Foundation : Hair Dare (acrf.com.au) – then customise your fundraising page, put out the call for donations and follow through with the dare on your chosen date. 

“Whether it’s a full shave, a crazy cut or a splash of colour in your hair, you’ll be supporting Australia’s best cancer research by taking on the ACRF Hair Dare,” ACRF CEO Kerry Strydom said. 

“Two in five Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, so Hair Dare participants can help to ensure their loved ones don’t miss out on vital research by raising crucial funds. 

“There’s nothing like a dare to give you the courage to achieve something great. Hair grows back relatively quickly, but the impact of cutting-edge cancer research will last forever. 

“In previous years we’ve seen some wild and wacky Hair Dares – including participants shaving their hair after years of growth – as heartfelt tributes to family and friends affected by cancer. 

“Every dollar donated adds up to millions of dollars’ worth of impact in cancer research.” 

The ACRF team will provide participants with fundraising tips and motivation along the way. 

Since 1984, ACRF has awarded 82 grants totalling more than $174 million to 43 research institutions – giving scientists the tools to make life-saving discoveries into the prevention, detection and treatment of all types of cancer. 

To sign up to take part in ACRF’s Hair Dare, click here.

*Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2022 

The Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10&5K winners have crossed the finish line and a wild card 18-year old took out the 5km

Marathon star Ed Goddard and 3 x Olympic Finalist Genevieve Gregson took out the title in
Sydney’s most scenic 10k fun run. Wild card, 18-year-old Oliver Ham surprised everyone
when he was 10 seconds off beating the 5km record.

Today 5,600 runners came out in force to take part in the biggest Real Insurance Sydney
Harbour 10k and 5k since the lockdowns lifted. The new-look event put on a show, with
more entertainment than ever before, and a larger focus on the family friendly 5k event.

Runners also had the option of raising funds for Australian Cancer Research Foundation
(ACRF), who have been the events charity partner for the past two years.

Taking out the title in the strong elite male field for the Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k
was up-and-coming Marathon star Ed Goddard from Sydney who won in 29:37 ahead of
Olympian Ryan Gregson who finished in second place in 29:49. Third place was taken out by
Arron Spiessberger-Parker in 29:56.

3 x Olympic finalist Genevieve Gregson led the women’s field in 32:19, closely followed by
Leanne Pompeani in 32:22 and third place went to Eloise Wellings in a time of 32:58.

Wild card, Oliver Ham, an 18-year-old from the Central Coast, surprised everyone to take
out the Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 5km, with a time that was just 10 seconds off the
course record, which was set last year. He clocked 15:42. Oliver is currently training for the
National Cross-Country Championships.

Two time Olympian, Zoe Buckman took out the 5km for the women with a time of 16:38.
Zoe noted that “the course was quite quick and flat, without too many sharp turns, so it’s an
enjoyable place to run”. Zoe trains with Australian long-distance runner, Leanne Pompeani
in Des Proctor’s Group. She’s currently training whilst working and is also striding towards
the Australian Cross Country Championships.

Set against the backdrop of Sydney’s breathtaking harbour, The Real Insurance Sydney
Harbour 10k and 5k is a certified accurate flat course with incredible views and enjoyed by
walkers and runners of all abilities.

The 10k is popular with elite and experienced runners as the course is known for delivering
PB’s and many use the race as a hit out for ahead of longer events later in the calendar.
2023 Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k Men’s winner Ed Goddard said that the course felt
good today.

“There were not too many hills, but there were a few pinches to keep you honest,” said
Goddard. “It was a good all-round course.”

The Sydney Harbour 10k was Goddard’s first race back since the Gold Coast Marathon three
weeks ago.

“It was a quick bounce back, but I run this loop basically every day, so I know it like the back
of my hand.”

“I usually run half marathons and marathons; however, I love the 10k. You can feel so good
after racing a 10k, whereas after a marathon you feel pretty beat up.”

“Next up I am training to hopefully attend the Road Running Championships in Latvia, which
will be exotic, and I have a marathon later in the year. My big goal though, is that I have my
eye on the Olympics next year, but I need to put the work in for that.”

2023 Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k Women’s winner was 33-year-old, Genevieve
Gregson.

Genevieve notes that she loved the track, “despite feeling unwell early on and suffering the
effects of the cold weather, I took a positive turn around the 6-7K mark where my breathing
began to relax and I started feeling myself again, after that, I could really enjoy the final 3-4K
of the scenic views.

I was in a great headspace and loving the scenery, I was feeling very strong like I could
potentially win.

I’ve recently been in a marathon block, I did the Gold Coast Marathon three weeks ago, but I
had no plans on racing after that, so I took a week of rest afterwards. After some training I
had one really good session which made me think, why not take part, lets jump in the race. I
thought I’d be 3rd at best.

Next up, I’ve got the Sunshine Coast Australian Half Marathon Championships on August
13th, so I’ve got about 2 weeks to freshen up for that, but it looks like things are going well
for it”.

Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k and 5k Event Director Wayne Larden said the event has
gained even more attention this year, and he hopes to get up to those pre-covid numbers by
2024.

“It was a great event this year, with more families than ever before signing up to run
together in one of Australia’s fastest and most beautiful 10k & 5k running events. And the
star-studded field certainly put on a show with some great racing.” It continues to deliver a
terrific experience for both elite and everyday runners, providing a fantastic way to stay fit
and enjoy what is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular 5k and 10k course in the country.
It’s a unique way to see beautiful Sydney Harbour, the CBD and surrounds. It’s also a brilliant
warm up before the Sydney Marathon which takes place in September.”

Australian Cancer Research Foundation

For the second year in a row, Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) was the official
charity partner of the Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k & 5k, creating a platform for
runners of all fitness levels to raise vital funds for cancer research.

This year’s ACRF event ambassadors, former Olympic pole vaulter and Survivor champion Liz
Parnov, and best-selling author and ‘The Resilience Project’ Founder Hugh van Cuylenburg,
helped ACRF to raise awareness and funds for more brilliant cancer research across
Australia.

Parnov and van Cuylenburg both took part in the picturesque 5km course.

“I’ve been honoured to help raise money for ACRF through such a wonderful event,” said
Parnov, who competed at the 2020 Olympic Games and won Australian Survivor: Heroes V
Villains earlier this year.

“Almost everyone has been impacted by cancer in some way. By supporting ACRF, we can all
contribute to cutting-edge research and help to give the people who need it most Australia’s
best cancer research.”

Best-selling author van Cuylenburg, who presents The Resilience Project seminars on
gratitude, empathy and mindfulness to schools, businesses, and sports clubs around the
country, echoed Parnov’s message.

“It’s a privilege to be an ACRF ambassador” said van Cuylenburg, who also co-hosts The
Imperfects podcast.

“While I am more of a sprinter, it was a pleasure to clock up some kms in the 5km event this
morning to help raise vital funds for brilliant cancer research.”

ACRF CEO Kerry Strydom expressed her excitement at having Parnov and van Cuylenburg on
board.

“We can’t thank Liz and Hugh enough for their commitment,” Ms Strydom said. “They’re
both extremely talented and caring people who will make a big difference with their
influence and voice in the community. A sincere thanks must also go to the Real Insurance
Sydney Harbour 10k & 5k organisers. This is the second year that ACRF has been the sole
charity partner of the event and we are so grateful.”

Since 1984, ACRF has invested more than $174 million across 82 research projects
supercharging scientific research with the technology and equipment needed to find new
ways to prevent, detect and treat all types of cancer.

More funding for cancer research is essential so our best and brightest minds can find new
ways to prevent, detect and treat this devastating disease.

Here are some key stats and points of interest around ACRF:

  • 2 in 5 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. The remaining 3 will be
    closely affected by a diagnosis.
  • It’s a deadly problem that needs disruptive solutions, starting with pioneering programs
    and revolutionary research.
  • ACRF’s mission is to back brilliant research by giving scientists the technology and
    equipment they need to find new and improved ways to prevent, detect and treat ALL
    types of cancer.

All participants can check their results at www.sydneyharbour10k.com.

‘Research saved her life’: Donate to ACRF’s March Appeal to improve survivorship for more families like 2-year-old Sophia’s 

If it wasn’t for decades of progressive cancer research, Liz Burfitt knows her beloved two-year-old daughter Sophia wouldn’t be here. 

“The difference between the child that survives and child that dies is research – and research saved Sophia. We’re just so grateful for that,” Liz said. 

That’s why ACRF is launching an Autumn Appeal – raising funds to continue backing the most brilliant research and improve survivorship for more families like Sophia’s. 

Sophia was just 13 months old when she was diagnosed with an extremely rare germ cell tumour behind her left eye in 2021. 

Nothing could have prepared Liz and dad Pat for the devastating news of little Sophia’s condition, but they were soon given hope. 

The parents were informed by their oncologist that, thanks to medical advancements, there was a “70 or 80% chance” of Sophia’s cancer being treated successfully. 

With a proven plan of approach, Sophia quickly started treatment. She first had surgery to insert a central line, then began five months of chemotherapy. 

During this period, Sophia endured extreme nausea, hair loss and night terrors. It was a heartbreaking period for Liz and Pat, but they were hopeful knowing that it was the best treatment available to tackle Sophia’s cancer. 

“The tumour produced a marker called alpha-fetoprotein. A normal range is between zero to six, but when she was first diagnosed, her levels were up at 3700,” Liz said. 

“Every two weeks when we did the blood test, that number was decreasing, so we knew it was working.” 

However, there was still another major setback to come. Just when doctors believed Sophia’s cancer had disappeared, another scan showed a large mass remained. 

It meant Sophia needed a risky surgery that could’ve resulted in paralysis of the left side of her face. “Thankfully that went well, and the surgery was about five hours,” Liz said. 

“And at the end of that, when we got the results back, it turned out that was just a dead-cell mass.” 

Sophia has sadly lost sight in her left eye due to her optic nerve being crushed but is otherwise a healthy and happy girl. Sophia loves playing at the park, ballet dancing and singing along to the popular musical, Frozen.  

Fast-forward to today: Sophia has been cancer-free for more than a year and is a doting big sister to little brother Hamish, who is just 10 months old. Liz couldn’t be more thankful for her beautiful family. 

“It’s amazing. Research did save Sophia’s life. It’s such a big, bold statement, but it’s true,” she said. 

“If those scientists behind the scenes hadn’t worked on this type of cancer, then she would not be here.” 

All donations to ACRF go towards providing scientists with the technology and equipment to fast-track life-saving breakthroughs in cancer research. 

Take for example the world-leading ACRF International Centre for the Proteome of Cancer (ProCan®) at Children’s Medical Research Institute in Westmead, established in 2015 with a $10 million grant. 

The ground-breaking research project compares cancer samples against those in a database/reference library held by ProCan, collected in Australia and globally. 

Celebrating Brilliance 2022

An elegant event hosted by ACRF Chair, Mr Tom Dery AO, to thank ACRF’s Medical Research Advisory Committee (MRAC) and Board of Trustees for volunteering their time for the completion of another ACRF Grant Round. Thanks to ACRF’s generous donors, $2.1 million was awarded to Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute to enable the establishment of a world-class radiochemistry lab. Learn more here.

6,000 Steps A Day For Cancer Research: October Challenge FAQs

When does the Facebook challenge begin? Registrations and fundraising commenced on September 1st, 2022. Your official 6,000 Steps A Day challenge and fundraiser begins on October 1st and runs until October 31st, 2022.

Is it free to register? Yes! We want you to be part of our fitness challenge. 

Do I have to fundraise? Yes please – every dollar you raise will go to Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF), to help fund research that seeks to progress and transform the way we prevent, detect and treat all cancers. 

Will I receive any incentives? Of course! You will receive a free ACRF fitness belt when you first sign-up. This can be used to store your phone, wallet, and keys while you’re out and about smashing your 6,000 steps. We will also send you an October calendar, so you can keep track of your progress as you go.  

What if I complete more or less than 6,000 steps in October? You are an ACRF superstar no matter what! Your physical and fundraising efforts as part of this challenge will help advance all areas of cancer research – prevention, detection, and treatment. 

If I miss a day, can I do an extra 6,000 steps on the following day to catch up? Of course! You can even catch up on three days in one if you like – it’s up to you.
 
What will the donations to my 6,000 Steps A Day page go towards funding?  All donations will go toward funding research projects that push boundaries and blaze new trials. ACRF has awarded 81 grants totaling over $171 million to 43 Australian research institutions. From small vaccines to big machines, our funding has supported some of the greatest outcomes in cancer research across Australia.  

What fundraising support can I expect? We want your fundraising experience to be fun and rewarding! Once you sign up for the challenge and join our FB group, you’ll gain full support from our community. The ACRF team will also provide tips and resources to ensure your fundraising is a success! 

Are donations tax deductible? Yes, they are! A receipt will be sent to the email address linked to your Facebook account. You can show this receipt when filing your tax return.  

When will I receive my fitness belt and October calendar? We will put your fitness kit in the post within a week of receiving your sign-up – make sure you register for the challenge AND fill out your details to receive the fitness belt. If it’s been longer than two weeks since you registered for your fitness belt, please get in touch with the team in our Facebook group or via fundraising@acrf.com.au.

How do I find my fundraising page? Your fundraising page will be visible on your Facebook profile. Simply visit your own page to find the link there.  

Can my friend / family member donate if they are not on Facebook? You need a Facebook profile to donate to a Facebook fundraiser. You can ask them to give you money to donate on their behalf, or ask them to donate to ACRF directly via our website or by giving us a call.  

How do I track my progress in October? That’s up to you! We will send you an October calendar so you can cross off each day as you go, but you can choose to track your progress however you like.  

If you have any other questions, please get in touch with ACRF’s fundraising team via email: fundraising@acrf.com.au

WEHI launches ACRF-funded cancer research project

Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Program for Resolving Cancer Complexity and Therapeutic Resistance has officially launched.

The world-class cancer research program addresses one of the main challenges of precision medicine – how to manage the complexity of cancer and each patients’ response to them and determine why some stop responding to cancer therapies.

The ambitious project has been made possible due to a $3.5 million grant awarded to the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) by ACRF in 2019.

The ACRF Program for Resolving Cancer Complexity and Therapeutic Resistance has enabled WEHI to purchase cutting-edge technological infrastructure that is essential for studying individual cancers at a single-cell level.

This new technology allows researchers to focus on the discovery of triggers that drive cancer development, how genetic diversity in cancers affects treatment efficacy, and develop better ways of personalising cancer therapies to conquer the biggest challenges in cancer today – ultimately predicting and improving patients’ treatment response and overcoming drug resistance.

The equipment included a $2.2 million MIBIscope which is the fastest, highest resolution mass spectrometry-based imager ever made. It is the only machine that is capable of the analysis scale, sensitivity and large sample size proposed in this program.

Professor Andrew Roberts AM, Laboratory Head and Joint Leader, Cancer Research and Treatments Theme at WEHI, said the complexity and diversity of cancers at a single-cell level, and the cells that make up the tumour microenvironment, is poorly understood, and in many cases, it is difficult to predict how a patient will respond to therapy.

“This important investment from ACRF will enable us to gain a deeper understanding of how cancers develop at a single cell level, leading to breakthroughs in how we personalise cancer therapy that will have a real impact for patients in the future, improving treatment response and overcoming treatment resistance,” said Professor Roberts.

ACRF’s CEO, Kerry Strydom said, Australian Cancer Research Foundation backs brilliant cancer research and cutting-edge technology that drives innovation that ultimately – helps to save millions of lives

“Australia is constantly punching above its weight in the field of cancer research and the ACRF Program for Resolving Cancer Complexity and Therapeutic Resistance is proof of that. We hope to see this project produce findings that will support and improve the outcome of each individual diagnosed with this devasting disease.”

Learn more about the project by watching the event video below.

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer is a term that refers to cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. Sadly, blood cancer is one of the highest causes of cancer deaths in Australia, claiming more lives each year than breast cancer and melanoma. 

How does blood cancer occur?

Blood cancers occur when normal blood cell production is interrupted by the uncontrolled growth of an abnormal type of blood cell. This uncontrolled growth can reduce the bone marrow’s ability to produce normal levels of other blood cells, which affects the rest of the body. 

What are the common types of blood cancer?

There are two common types of blood cancer: leukaemia and lymphoma. 

Leukaemia: Leukaemia is caused by the accumulation of excess, abnormal white blood cells. Leukaemias are grouped according to the type of white blood cell that is affected – either lymphoid or myeloid cells. They are then also classified according to the speed with which they can progress. The four main types of leukaemia include:

  • Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL): Happens when the bone marrow overproduces white blood cells called lymphocytes. These abnormal cells overcrowd the bone marrow, and can also spill out to build up in parts of the lymphatic system (the spleen or lymph nodes) and in the liver.
  • Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): Occurs due to an overproduction of the myeloid white blood cells – sometimes called ‘myeloblasts’. 
  • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL): This is a slow-growing type of Leukaemia, characterised by its impact on developing B-lymphocytes (also known as B-cells). Normal B-cells produce immunoglobulins (or antibodies) which fight infection and disease, so when they become leukaemic, they are unable to function properly.
  • Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML): Caused by a genetic abnormality in the blood cells, called the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome. It is a mutation in the DNA that causes the bone marrow to make an enzyme called tyrosine kinase, which in turn causes too many stem cells to become white blood cells.

Lymphoma: Lymphoma occurs when abnormal cells in the body’s lymphatic system grow in an uncontrolled way. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and is made up of lymphatic vessels, lymph and lymph nodes. The two main types of lymphoma include:

  • Hodgkin Lymphoma: Hodgkin Lymphoma, also called Hodgkin Disease, or Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, is cancer of the lymphatic system. It most commonly starts in the lymph nodes in the neck, but can also start in lymph nodes located in the collarbone, the armpit, the groin and inside the chest.
  • Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Lymphomas are most often classified by how the cancer cells look under the microscope. There are three main features of lymphoma; size, shape and growth pattern

Are leukaemia and blood cancer the same?

No, Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer.  Leukaemias are cancers of the white blood cells, which begin in the bone marrow. Leukaemias are grouped in two ways: the type of white blood cell affected – lymphoid or myeloid; and how quickly the disease develops and gets worse.

What are the symptoms of blood cancer?

The symptoms of blood cancer vary by type but may include symptoms such as:

  • Anaemia
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Weight loss
  • Pain in the bones or joints
  • Swollen lymph glands

You can also learn more about blood cancer statistics and prevalence in Australia in this article.

How can you support blood cancer research?

By supporting Australian Cancer Research Foundation, you help back the brilliant ideas needed to find better ways to prevent, detect and treat all types of cancer, including blood cancer. Donate today to help bring us closer to a world without this devastating disease.

References: 

Simple blood test to improve cancer treatment

Cancer patients will be able to select and adapt their treatments based on a simple blood test that is being developed in partnership between QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and Swiss start-up Biopsomic.

Head of QIMR Berghofer’s Tumour Micro-environment Research Group, Associate Professor Andreas Möller said if the research is successful it would boost the chances of successful treatment for cancer patients.

“At the moment, clinicians have no reliable way of predicting whether a particular patient will respond better to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or any other therapy,” Associate Professor Möller said.

“This blood test could quickly and accurately indicate the most effective treatment for an individual patient.”

The test is being developed to read the content of exosomes. These exosomes are tiny, fluid-filled sacs that are shed by tumour cells into the blood of patients. They are essentially miniature blueprints of what is contained in the cancer cells.

“These exosomes offer insight into how cancer cells will likely behave. If their contents suggest a person’s cancer cells will not respond to a given therapy, then their clinician can explore more effective alternatives,” Associate Professor Möller said.

Biopsomic’s co-founder and co-inventor of the test, Dr Antoine Leimgruber MD says the medical decision process in managing cancer patients needs to improve.

“Patients are exposed to stressful and sometimes invasive diagnostic procedures that are not easily repeated. They deserve a new generation of minimally invasive, less expensive and accurate tests to allow their doctors to take the right decision at the right time for the specific situation of each patient.”

“Biopsomic technology contributes to personalised cancer management, a shift from the one-size fits all rule to improve each patient outcome and avoid non-useful and potentially harmful interventions.”

Under the licensing and option agreement, QIMR Berghofer will also conduct collaborative research with Biopsomic.

The terms of the agreement are commercial in confidence.

This article was originally published by QIMR Berghofer. ACRF has been backing brilliant cancer research by QIMR since 2007, awarding a total of $12.45M in funding.

What are the common types of skin cancer?

What is skin cancer? 

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally, often after the skin is exposed to the sun. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer anywhere in the world. This is due largely to our climate, the fact that many of us have fair skin, and our proximity to the equator (high UV levels). 

How many types of skin cancer are there? 

There are three major types of skin cancer — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Other, less common types of skin cancer, include:

  • Kaposi sarcoma is a rare form of skin cancer that develops in the skin’s blood vessels and causes red or purple patches on the skin or mucous membranes.
  • Merkel cell carcinoma causes firm, shiny nodules that occur on or just beneath the skin and in hair follicles. Merkel cell carcinoma is most often found on the head, neck and trunk.
  • Sebaceous gland carcinoma is an uncommon and aggressive cancer originating in the oil glands. Sebaceous gland carcinomas, usually appearing as hard, painless nodules can develop anywhere, but most occur on the eyelid.

Read on to learn more about the three major types of skin cancers, their signs and treatment.

Basal Cell Skin Cancer 

What is Basal Cell Skin Cancer? 

Basal cell skin cancer occurs in the basal cells, a type of skin cell that produces new cells as the old ones die. Basal cell skin cancer is the most common form of skin cancer. 

What are the signs of Basal Cell Skin Cancer? 

Basal cell skin cancer usually occurs in sun-exposed areas of your body, such as your neck or face. It usually presents as a small, clear bump on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a:

·   Bump with a pearly appearance

·   Flat brown or flesh-coloured lesion

·   Bleeding or scabbing sore 

How is basal cell skin cancer treated? 

Basal cell skin cancer is often treated with surgery to remove the cancer and some of the healthy tissue around it. Surgical options include:

  • Surgical excision: in this procedure, your doctor cuts out the cancerous lesion and a surrounding margin of healthy skin. The margin is examined under a microscope to be sure there are no cancer cells.
  • Mohs surgery: during Mohs surgery, the doctor removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under the microscope until no abnormal cells remain. 

Squamous cell skin cancer

What is Squamous Cell Skin Cancer? 

Squamous cell skin cancer is the second most common form of skin cancer, after basal cell skin cancer. Squamous cell skin cancer is characterised by abnormal, accelerated growth of squamous cells, located near the surface of the skin. 

What are the signs of squamous cell skin cancer?

Squamous cell skin cancer usually occurs on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, ears and hands. People with darker skin are more likely to develop squamous cell skin cancer on areas that aren’t often exposed to the sun. Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a:

·       Firm red nodule

·       Flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface

How is squamous cell skin cancer treated?

Most squamous cell skin cancers can be completely removed with relatively minor surgery. Surgical options include:

  • Curettage and electrodessication: a procedure to remove the surface of the skin cancer with a scraping instrument (curet) and then searing the base of the cancer with an electric needle.
  • Laser therapy: an intense beam of light vaporizes growths, usually with little damage to surrounding tissue and with a reduced risk of bleeding, swelling and scarring.
  • Freezing: this treatment involves freezing cancer cells with liquid nitrogen (cryosurgery). It is the preferred option for treating superficial skin lesions. 

Melanoma skin cancer 

What is melanoma? 

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes – a cell that produces and contains the pigment called melanin. Melanoma skin cancer is much less common than basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers, however, it is far more dangerous as it is much more likely to spread to other parts of the body if it’s not caught early.

What are the signs of melanoma? 

Melanoma tumours are usually brown or black, but they can also appear pink, tan or even white. They can look like:

·       A large brownish spot with darker speckles

·       A mole that changes in color, size or feel or that bleeds

·       A small lesion with an irregular border and portions that appear red, pink, white, blue or blue-black

·       A painful lesion that itches or burns

How is melanoma treated? 

Surgery is the most common treatment for melanoma skin cancer, however its purpose varies depending on how far the cancer has progressed. For later-stage melanoma skin cancer, surgery is used as a diagnostic tool to assess how far the cancer has spread. Patients may require more invasive surgery to remove lymph nodes.

How can you prevent skin cancer?

You can lower your risk of developing skin cancer by following some sun safety tips:

  • Avoid exposing your skin to the sun, and don’t tan!
  • Wear protective clothing like long sleeve shirts and wetsuits in the water.
  • Wear sunscreen every day, even if it’s overcast. A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB rays should be reapplied every 2 hours when your skin is exposed to sun.

Avoid peak times of 12pm-2pm when the sun is at its highest, find a shady spot during this time.

What skin cancer research has ACRF funded?

In 2019 ACRF awarded $9.9M to the Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, to establish the Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis (ACEMID). ACEMID aims to reduce the annual melanoma death toll by using sophisticated 3D imaging systems to produce whole-body scans that can be monitored over time. These scans create patient ‘avatars’, enabling melanoma to be detected earlier.

In addition to the $10M of ACEMID funding, ACRF has funded $7.08M in brilliant skin cancer research in Australia and provided seed-funding of $5M to Westmead Institute for Cancer Research to construct 2 word-class melanoma research laboratories in 2011.

New skin cancer research facilities and technology are innovating the way we prevent, detect and treat skin cancer. Your support is integral in bringing us closer to a world without cancer. The good news is, you can help back brilliant cancer research by donating today

What is a bequest and how do I leave one in my Will?

A bequest is a gift passed to an organisation or individual as part of your Will, a legal document that outlines your wishes when you pass away. It is the legacy you leave behind when you pass away, and can have a lasting impact on the lives of others.

How does a bequest work? 

All your financial assets, savings, properties, belongings, assets (like stocks and bonds) form what is known as your estate. When you pass away you can choose how you would like to divide up your estate with the executor of your Will. A person or organisation you choose to leave a bequest to is known as a beneficiary. 

What are the different types of bequests?

There are four main types of bequests you can leave in your Will:

1)  Residual: This is the remainder of your estate after you leave gifts to loved ones

2)  Percentage or fractional: This is a gift expressed as a percentage of your estate

3)  Pecuniary: This is a specific gift that can be money, property, stocks or shares

4)  Whole estate: This comprises your entire estate

Who can I leave a bequest to?

You can choose to leave a bequest to a person or organisation like ACRF, or multiple people and organisations, depending on how you would like to divide up our estate. When making the decision of who, or what organisation, to leave a bequest to, it is important to consider the legacy you would like to pass on to future generations. 

Safeguarding your loved ones, progressing the causes you’re passionate about, and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of others, are all important considerations to make when leaving a bequest. 

To learn more about leaving a bequest or gift in your will, please visit our Gifts in Will page, where you can download a free Bequest Info Booklet.

How do I leave a bequest?

A bequest will need to be written into your Will. If you have a pre-existing Will, you will need to update the Will wording to include a bequest to a loved one or organisation.

If you don’t have a Will, but are looking for an efficient and affordable way to create a simple Will that reflects your wishes, book in to attend one of ACRF’s annual Wills Days. For just $75 for an individual or $100 for a couple, a legal professional will provide a one-on-one consultation to draft a simple Will. There is no obligation to leave a gift to ACRF in your Will, though should you choose to do so we would be very humbled. All fees will go toward backing brilliant cancer research. For more information and to book, visit our Wills Days 2023 page. 

Why make a bequest to a charity? 

There are plenty of reasons you might choose to leave a bequest to a charity in your Will. A bequest to charity is a powerful way to leave behind a lasting impact in your honour or in the memory of a loved one. It’s the last gift you’ll give to the people and causes who need it most. 

While leaving a gift to family and friends has the obvious benefit of ensuring your loved ones are looked after when you pass away, leaving a bequest to a charity in your Will can positively impact the lives of people you’ve never met, who you may share a common bond with. For example, many people who leave a bequest to ACRF have a lived experience of cancer or have a loved one who has been impacted or died from the disease.

Related reading: How to Leave a Gift to Charity in Your Will

How do I leave a bequest to ACRF?  

ACRF is humbled by all our amazing bequestors who choose to leave a gift to ACRF in their Will. Our bequestors have backed brilliant cancer research, helping to give scientists access to the cutting edge technology that drives innovation, ultimately saving millions of lives.

At ACRF we have a Planned Giving Manager dedicated to ensuring your wishes are reflected in your will when you pass away. Please contact Jo Meredith, by phoning 1300 884 988 ​or emailing bequests@acrf.com.au to learn more.

Improving the chances for children with high-risk cancers: new study raises bar in personalised medicine

A world-first study led by Australian scientists and clinicians has found a way to improve the therapy options, and therefore the survival chances, of children with high-risk cancers. More than 1000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 are diagnosed with cancer each year in Australia, and in those with high-risk cancers, the survival rate is less than 30%.

The study is the first to demonstrate that the practice of pre-clinical testing – developing laboratory models based on each patient’s cancer, then using these models to test potential therapies – significantly increases treatment options for children with high-risk cancer when compared to genetic testing of patient tumours alone.

In recent years, the field of personalised medicine has seen treatments matched to individual patients with a precision that has never before been possible, and there is a move worldwide towards using personalised treatment approaches for children with cancer. Australia is home to one of the most comprehensive programs of this kind − the Zero Childhood Cancer Personalised Medicine Program (ZERO), jointly led by Children’s Cancer Institute and the Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.

So far, ZERO and other personalised medicine programs for children with cancer have been based on analysing each child’s cancer at a genomic level to find out what is driving the growth of the cancer and how it might best be targeted. This information is then used to provide treatment recommendations to the patient’s oncologist. Using this approach, ZERO has led to some remarkable results over the past six years, and building on this success, the Program is now being progressively expanded to be available to all young people diagnosed with cancer in Australia.

Published this week in the prestigious international medical journal EMBO Molecular Medicine, research by the ZERO team has now shown that personalised medicine results can be significantly improved by adding preclinical testing to the diagnostic platform on which treatment recommendations are based. Using data from 56 children with high-risk cancer enrolled in the ZERO pilot study (TARGET) and treated at Sydney’s two children’s hospitals between 2015 and 2017, the researchers found that pre-clinical testing not only revealed additional drug sensitivities − identifying treatment options in 10 patients that were not identified by genetic testing− but also proved a good predictor of clinical response in patients.

“We were surprised to find that preclinical testing, in many instances, proved even more accurate than molecular analysis in predicting patient response to the recommended therapy,” said Professor Glenn Marshall AM, Clinical Lead of ZERO and co-senior author on the paper. “Adding preclinical testing can therefore not only provide independent proof of drug efficacy suggested by molecular analyses, but also help avoid the use of ineffective treatments.”

Providing such proof may be an important step toward improving the clinical uptake of these treatment recommendations by oncologists, with past research suggesting that insufficient evidence is one of the main reasons oncologists choose not to adopt the treatment recommendations provided for their patients.

One family who has benefited from personalised medicine through the ZERO Program is the Giteau family. Kristy Giteau − a former national women’s rugby player, and sister of ex-Wallaby Matt Giteau − is mother to Ka’ili, a courageous little girl who was diagnosed with a rare kidney cancer in 2019. Treated at the Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Ka’ili initially responded well to therapy, but her cancer grew aggressively, and she relapsed in June 2020. Facing extremely limited treatment options, she joined ZERO. Researchers were able to identify a specific drug that both genetic analysis and preclinical drug testing showed was specifically targeted to her cancer. Her doctors were then able to begin treatment with this drug. Ka’ili is now in remission and doing well.

“I’m so thankful for the world-class treatment Ka’ili received,” said Kristy. “Without ZERO, I dread to think what options we would have been left with. All the testing done on Ka’ili’s cancer led to finding a treatment that worked for her, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

According to Associate Professor David Ziegler, Clinical Trial Lead for ZERO and co-senior author on the paper, while not every child treated using a personalised medicine approach experiences a positive outcome, future research is likely to lead to further improvements.

“Our research strongly suggests that adding preclinical testing to the diagnostic platform has the potential to improve clinical outcomes for children with high-risk cancer,” he said. “We believe this is a major advance in the field, and one that will provide fresh hope to children with cancer and their families.”

This article was originally published by the Children’s Cancer Institute. ACRF is one of the founding funders of the Zero Childhood Cancer program, a $1.5 million grant was awarded to the project in 2014.

World Cancer Day 2022: Here’s What You Can Do

When is World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day is held each year on the 4th of February and is a day dedicated to empowering individuals and communities worldwide to show support and create awareness of cancer in a positive way. The movement is led by the Union of International Cancer Control (UICC), who aim to dispel myths about cancer and improve international understanding of the disease. 

World Cancer Day is celebrated across the globe because we know that only together, can we improve education and inspire action. Ultimately, working towards a world where millions of cancer deaths are prevented, and life-saving research is equitable for all. 

What is the theme for World Cancer Day 2022?

This year’s World Cancer Day theme, “Close the Care Gap”, is all about raising awareness of the equity gap that affects so many individuals and communities and costs the lives of those impacted by cancer. Income, education, geographical location, and discrimination based on ethnicity, age or lifestyle are just some of the many factors that can affect ones’ cancer care. 

What can you do for World Cancer Day?

There are hundreds of activities and events taking place across the world which you can engage in, both virtually and in-person, to support World Cancer Day. Here are some of the ways you can help: 

  • Post on social media, sharing your commitment 
  • Light up a significant building or monument on World Cancer Day in the official colours – orange and blue 
  • Find a World Cancer Day event near you, or host your own 
  • Donate to a cancer charity 

Back brilliant cancer research ideas this World Cancer Day

At Australian Cancer Research Foundation, we are committed to our vision of one day reaching a world without cancer. We give scientists the technology, equipment, and infrastructure they need for pioneering research, because we know only brilliant ideas can tackle something as big as cancer. 

By donating to ACRF this World Cancer Day, you are helping to fund the research that seeks to progress and transform the way we prevent, detect and treat ALL types of cancer. 

Thank you for helping to back brilliant cancer research. 

Back brilliant cancer research and save on your shopping

When you buy an Entertainment Digital Membership through ACRF you won’t just be gaining hundreds of local offers, you’ll also be investing in the future of your loved ones.  

From each membership purchased here, 20% of profits will go towards funding world-class cancer research, helping Australia’s best scientists accelerate the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ALL types of cancer.

Entertainment Digital Memberships are also a great way to make the most of what’s happening in your local community and beyond. They offer hundreds of discounts and exclusive offers for the finest restaurants, cafés, attractions, and accommodation across Australia. 

“The membership gave us hundreds of ideas on places to see and eat. The best part though is that we saved heaps on all these trips, it’s just fantastic!” Michelle E., Sydney  

The Entertainment Digital Membership is now available to order through ACRF’s page – visit the link here.

Pink Buns for Women’s Cancer Awareness Month at ACRF

Did you know that every day in Australia, around 190 women are diagnosed with cancer?

Women’s Cancer Awareness Month at ACRF is a time to recognise these brave women, and their families, who have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

To raise awareness and vital funds for ground-breaking research – Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) and Brasserie Bread have teamed up. For the month of October, Brasserie Bread has turned their delicious milk buns PINK and for every limited-edition six-pack sold, they are donating $1 to ACRF.

Cafes and venues in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria have jumped onboard to support the campaign, ordering their Pink Buns from Brasserie Bread, creating delicious Pink Bun burgers for their customers, and even fundraising on behalf of ACRF.

How can you get involved?

  • Pick up some delicious Pink Buns from a cafe near you
  • Snap and share your Pink Buns on Instagram using the hashtag #pinkbuns4research – don’t forget to tag ACRF! @cancer_researchau
  • Donate to support ACRF or a café fundraising
  • Spread the word!

Click here for other ideas on how you can get involved with our Pink Bun campaign, such as hosting your own virtual Pink Party.

At ACRF we know that only brilliant ideas can tackle something as big as cancer. By supporting us, you’re helping to give scientists the technology, equipment and infrastructure they need for pioneering research. By funding research that seeks to progress and transform the way we prevent, detect and treat ALL cancers, we are committed to our vision of one day reaching a world without cancer.

Pick up a Pink Bun and get fundraising for cancer research. Together we can help save lives!