Isabella and Marcus lost their lives to a little known brain tumour called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). This tumour occurs in the brainstem, most frequently in children between the ages of 5 and 9 and offers no prospect of long term survival. Most children die within a year of diagnosis.
Research has improved the prognosis of many children’s cancers but there has been no progress in the treatment of DIPG in the last 30 years. The only treatment available is radiotherapy, which prolongs life by months if the tumour is responsive. Brain tumours are now the leading cause of cancer deaths in children in Australia yet there is no research into brainstem tumours in Australia.
Mission
To fund Australian research into paediatric brainstem tumours with a focus on DIPG.
Vision
To establish an Endowed Chair at the University of Melbourne, with an affiliated research laboratory in the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, that will perform research to understand the nature of these tumours, develop novel treatments and to participate in international clinical trials.
Isabella’s and Marcus’ families were brought together by their tragedies. They are like-minded in their pursuit to extend the lives of children diagnosed with brainstem tumours and ultimately to find a cure.
The Isabella and Marcus Fund is administered by the Australian Communities Foundation, a not for profit organisation. Donations over $2 are fully tax deductible and 100% goes to the Isabella and Marcus Fund.
Kids Dream Day
We’re excited to announce the commencement of the ‘Kids Dream Day’ fundraising program. Launched by the Victorian Minister for Education, Martin Dixon, the Patron of the Fund, at Thomas Mitchell Primary School, Endeavour Hills on May 8th, 2012, this program will raise awareness of brainstem tumours in children amongst the school community. Victorian schools are encouraged to participate.
New Supporters
We welcome 3 new supporters:
- Peter Doherty, Nobel Laureate (Medicine), Companion of the Order of Australia, Fellow of the Austalian Academy of Science and Australian of the Year (1997),
- Andrew Gaze, NBL great, NBA Championship player, 5 time Olympian and flag bearer for the Australian team at the Sydney Olympics, and
- David de Kretser, Companion of the Order of Australia, knight of the British Venerable Order of Saint John, Governor of Victoria from 2006 - 2011, Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and Father of the Year 2006. A supporting statement to follow.
Charity Prize Win
The Isabella and Marcus Fund are proud to announce the charity’s selection as one of four winners of the Neil Mitchell radio show/Harvey Norman Charity Giveaway. The $10,000 prizes were awarded to assist charities in their fundraising activities.
Sponsorship news
Fuji Xerox Australia's Victoria Branch has selected the Isabella and Marcus Fund as their 'Charity of Choice' for 2012. We thank FXA sincerely and look forward to a long and rewarding relationship.
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