Supporter stories
We are deeply grateful for every contribution, as this enables our groundbreaking research to power new treatments and cures for this and future generations.
Read more about why our supporters donate to Hudson Institute.
Stomach cancer and H.pylori
Janine’s story
“I’m not a millionaire and there are other diseases I could have donated to, but stomach cancer is so much more prevalent than I’d realised, and I know my donation will make a difference.” – Janine Flatt, Bequestor
As an African-American US military veteran, Bruce Hall never knew he was in a high-risk group for stomach cancer linked to gastric bacteria (H.pylori) infection.
No-one expected this fit, non-smoking teetotaller to succumb to stomach cancer at the age of 64.
Family’s community rallies in support
Jessica sadly passed away in 2022 at the age of 13 after a brave fight with a rare brain tumour.
When her family generously requested donations in lieu of flowers, their community rallied behind them.
As a result of the nearly $20,000 raised, Hudson Institute was able to purchase a digital microscope that allows a more comprehensive analysis of cancer cells.
“By raising funds in Jessica’s name for this important research, we are hopeful that one day another family won’t have to lose a child to a similar disease.” – Jessica’s father Luke
Honouring a young life cut short
Cade Watts was only 15 when he died, but his family and friends are determined that his legacy will be large – their fundraiser for sarcoma research, Climbing for Cade, has made sure of that.
Amid their devastation at his loss, Cade’s loved ones determined to do what they could to help other kids and other families facing this awful diagnosis.
“We are raising funds in hope that further research into this rare disease could one day mean that no other child will suffer from this insidious disease and improved treatment options may be made available for children experiencing Ewing sarcoma.” – Cades’ parents
Inner Wheel Foundation continued support
A collaboration that goes back further than 10 years, is the one we are lucky to share with Inner Wheel, one of the largest voluntary women’s service organisations in the world.
Of particular interest to Inner Wheel is the research being done at Hudson on the use of umbilical cord blood to prevent and treat the brain injuries that can commonly affect very preterm babies.
“Inner Wheel’s continued support of our cord blood research for over 10 years has led to multiple large NHMRC and MRFF grants, making it possible to take our early preclinical findings all the way through to clinical trials.” – Dr Courtney McDonald.
Giving while living to help cancer research
Ann Lorden’s husband Max succumbed to renal cancer in 2017, not long after their granddaughter Ella was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at just eight years old.
This inspired her to do whatever she could to help improve cancer treatments.
“My children and grandchildren could have a lovely holiday with their inheritance after I’ve gone, but there’s more good to be done for kids just like Ella by giving while living.” – Ann
Stomach cancer survivor
Despite encountering more than her share of health challenges, 92-year-old Delva Walker has the most positive outlook you are ever likely to encounter. A survivor of both stomach cancer (13 years ago) and breast cancer, Delva is an inspiration, for her positivity and attitude of taking each day as it comes. She continues to support Hudson Institute’s research with donations and advocacy, all aiming to see more advancements made in stomach cancer research.
“Why isn’t there more funding for stomach cancer research? In Hudson Institute’s newsletter I saw that Professor Richard Ferrero was researching gastric cancer, so I wrote to him and he replied.”- Delva Walker
Firefighters support cancer research
Fire Rescue Victoria are generously supporting Hudson Institute’s BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation research via the Firefighters Charity Fund.
This donation will allow for further research into microRNAs and BRCA1 mutations.
“We are excited that this donation will assist in Alex’s research, and feel that any work that will reduce the likelihood of BRCA1 cancer-related illness is worth supporting.”- Dave Harris, Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer.
Fitting legacy for fitness coach
Prominent Australian fitness coach, Daniel Wilson, died in May 2019, just two months after being diagnosed with stomach cancer. He was only 37 years old.
In his memory, an appeal was launched to fund research into earlier, better ways of diagnosing this disease.
This appeal aims to fund a scholarship in Daniel Wilson’s name that will support a PhD student to progress this stomach cancer research to the next stage.
Change starts here. Donate today.
You can make a tomorrow possible for more kids like Luca by supporting our research today.
