Gastric cancer researcher, Professor Brendan Jenkins, took part in two Metafit (high intensity interval training) sessions last weekend that were held in memory of the late fitness trainer, Daniel Wilson. The sessions are part of a global effort to raise funds for a scholarship in Daniel’s name to advance treatments for gastric cancer.
Understanding the legend
Daniel was a well-loved and respected leader in the Metafit community in Australia and worldwide. He introduced Metafit, a HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) program, to Australia and inspired thousands around the world.
Prof Jenkins joined a special training session called ‘Legend’ which was dedicated to Daniel and for the coaches who Daniel used to train. He said he experienced first-hand the passion and commitment the trainers have for the programs that Daniel Wilson established.
Prof Jenkins explains:”The sessions were a great test of physical and mental strength. I learnt that these strengths are what made Daniel Wilson legendary. Taking part was rewarding, even though I couldn’t walk properly for two days afterwards – my quads had no idea what hit them!”
The Metafit community has raised $18k towards the $35k required for the first year of the PhD scholarship in Daniel’s name that will advance treatments for stomach cancer. Funds continue to be raised through Everdayhero.
Advancing treatments
Prof Jenkins’ research group was responsible for recent promising medical research that identified a family of genes that could more accurately detect stomach cancer and potentially improve survival rates. However, the research is in the early stages and requires further work to develop targeted treatments for stomach cancer.
Professor Jenkins’ lab is at the forefront of research into biomarkers linked to the immune system. When these biomarkers are overactive they can drive cancer, they are also important for early detection.
Despite the lab’s global reputation, obtaining funding for medical research is extremely difficult, which means projects like this need philanthropy to progress them further to help patients.
READ MORE | A fitting legacy for Daniel Wilson
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