Annual Review 2017 with 2016 - 17 Financial Highlights
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Annual Review
2017
with 2016 - 17
Financial Highlights
Contents
The Snowdome Foundation, Message from the
Chairperson and CEO
4
making hope real in the fight Highlights of 2017 6
against blood cancers –
Achievements Since 2010 8
Snowdome Funded 10
leukaemia, lymphoma
Research Projects
Effecters of Change 14
and myeloma.
for Diversity
Donor Events 15
Christine and Bruce Wilson 16
Blood cancers are the third Centre for Lymphoma Genomics
Eve’s Patient Perspective 18
leading cause of death by Translating Research into
Clinical Practice
19
cancer in Australia. A Vision of Improving
Personalised Cancer Treatment
20
Each year over 12,000
Researcher Profile 22
The ‘Bloody Good Dinner’ 23
Australians are told they Fundraising Events 24
have blood cancer.
Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision 28
Board of Directors 32
The Snowdome Foundation’s
Financials 34
A Long-Term Philanthropic 40
mission is to accelerate
Partnership
Appreciation 41
next-generation treatments Committees and Executives 44
for Australian blood cancer
Bequests to Snowdome 46
Dedication 47
patients to help them live Cover page
longer, better lives.
Dr George Klempfner and Mrs Yolanda Klempfner AO
Current page
Millie Inman
2 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 3
Message from the Chairperson and CEO
The Wilson Family and In 2017, we launched our collaboration identifying only one protein (CD-19)
with the Epworth Medical Foundation on cancer cells. Advances have
Snowdome hope that acts to co-fund research in the novel area enabled genetically modified T-Cells
of huge generosity such of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA). (Car T cells) to also identify a second
as setting up the Wilson The use of ctDNA extends to early protein, CD-22. Lastly, significant
detection of cancer, monitoring improvements are also being made in
Centre will inspire others progression as well as determining the controlling follicular lymphoma using
to donate. best treatment path. The prospects an agent already approved for treating
are exciting, however more research chronic lymphocytic lymphoma.
is required before it replaces current
It was a momentous year for In 2018, the Snowdome Foundation
procedures. Through this partnership
Snowdome and Australian blood will facilitate ‘making hope real’ for
the Epworth Medical Foundation
cancer patients as we officially Western Australian blood cancer
is providing almost $1 million in
launched the Christine and Bruce patients. Snowdome will collaborate
‘matched funds’ to Snowdome-funded
Wilson Centre for Lymphoma with a number of partners to establish
research. Snowdome is seeking further
Genomics at the Peter MacCallum an internationally recognised Western
donations to conduct this research.
Cancer Centre. This extraordinary act Australia Lymphoma Centre of
To understand more about this novel
of generosity by the Wilson Family is Excellence. This Centre aims to
and exciting research see page 19.
so important for a number of reasons. improve the outcomes of blood
Firstly and most importantly, it will help We set ourselves a challenge in 2017 cancer patients by improving the
thousands of Australians diagnosed to raise $300, 000 at our first ever patient experience, facilitating access
with blood cancers to access more ‘Bloody Good Dinner’. The event was to new treatments and by fostering
personalised treatments. Secondly, co-hosted with Maddie Riewoldt’s collaborations with other recognised
the Wilson Family and Snowdome Vision in June and was a phenomenal cancer centres around the world.
hope that this act of generosity will success, raising over $400,000. You can read more about Dr Chan
inspire others to donate and assist in The night was a spectacular showcase Cheah and his hopes for Western
‘making hope real’ for blood cancer of the work both organisations have Australian blood cancer patients on
patients. You can read more about the achieved in a short amount of time. page 22.
Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre for Funds raised at the event have gone
Lymphoma Genomics on page 16. towards important research to identify At Snowdome our mission is to
critical genetic factors that contribute accelerate next-generation treatments
Good governance is essential to the for Australians with blood cancer to
to greater predictability of a bone
success and ongoing viability of a not- live longer, better lives. We cannot
marrow transplant being successful.
for-profit organisation. At Snowdome, achieve this without the support
We look forward to collaborating with
we aim to keep our expenses low to of our major donors. Our heartfelt
Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision in May 2018 to
ensure as many funds as possible thanks goes to these generous
host another successful ‘Bloody Good
are channeled towards blood cancer individuals and we thank them for
Dinner’. Learn more on page 23.
research and clinical trials in Australia their belief in Snowdome and our
to help patients live longer, better In 2017 we saw advances in the talented researchers. Our volunteer
lives. Ambitiously, Snowdome set development and availability of novel Board and Committee members, pro
an operating expenses to revenue treatments. The listing of ibrutinib, a bono and event partners, executive
ratio target of less than 15%. In breakthrough treatment for leukaemia team, all supporters and the medical
2016 - 17, Snowdome-specific activities and lymphoma, on the Pharmaceutical researchers and clinicians are critical
delivered an 8% operating expense Benefits Scheme in December, was to Snowdome’s success. It is their
to revenue ratio. When The Pratt a significant development and relief combined passion and commitment
Foundation’s CEO funding is taken to many patients. Ibrutinib, valued at that is ‘making hope real’.
into account, Snowdome had an approximately $187,000 per treatment,
adjusted ratio of just over 5%. This is a is now affordable as government We are delighted to share the
remarkable achievement and it would subsidies bring the treatment down Snowdome Foundation’s 2017 Annual
not be possible without the generosity to $39.50 per month or $6.40 for Review and 2016 - 17 financial highlights
of our pro-bono partners who concessional patients. Advances with you.
contributed over $400,000 in services are also being made in genetically
during this period. The end result is that modifying patients’ T-cells to seek Thank you for your time,
Roger Greenman AM Miriam Dexter more of our funds go directly towards and destroy cancer cells. In the past
Chairperson Chief Executive Officer ‘making hope real’. this treatment strategy was limited to interest and support.
4 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 5
$5.5 We were honoured to
2017
be the featured charity
for the Bulgari Festive
Season Celebration in
million
Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre
Melbourne with proceeds
going towards the Wilson Highlights of
Centre, see page 24
for Lymphoma Genomics at Peter
MacCallum Cancer was announced,
see page 16
The Wilson Centre aims to
Prof. Miles
provide genomic testing to over Prince AM
1,000
patients per year across
Australia, New Zealand and
Asia Pacific, see page 16
We welcomed Mr John
In collaboration with Maddie Riewoldt’s Salvaris to the Snowdome
Vision, we presented the ‘Bloody Good Board and farewelled
Dinner’ for 416 guests and raised over Mrs Nichola Patterson
as she retired from the
$400,000
Snowdome Board,
see page 32
to support innovative research that
aims to lead to greater predictability
of a bone marrow transplant being
successful, see page 23
With The University of Melbourne
and the Science Gallery, we held
$6
‘Snowdome We committed over
two inspirational Q&A sessions,
Occasional Coarse
sharing insights into researcher’s Language Too’
motivation, cutting-edge
genomics research and
$1.5
We secured almost
personalised medicine
advancements, see page 15
million
Warwick Sherman and his crew to 3 new research projects
set sail aboard ‘Snowdome to advance blood
Above centre million Occasional Coarse Language
Too’ in the Sydney to Hobart
cancer research
Image courtesy of Epworth
in matched funding with the race raising funds and our
majority directed to the profile with numerous press
6
Wilson Centre articles, see page 24
$21
Aligned with and facilitated Secured over
the establishment of Maddie
Riewoldt’s Vision, a charity
2010
that has already raised $2.1
million towards funding
research into a cure for bone
marrow failure syndromes
Achievements Since million
(received or committed) in funding
of which over 85% has been
assigned to innovative research
for finding new treatments
Won the inaugural
State and National
Telstra Business Award
– Charity Division 2016
in collaboration with
Maddie’s Vision
15% 27
Maintained a less than Extended
320
Assisted
expense base (8% for research grants representing over
Snowdome specific Australian blood cancer $16.5 million to fund 40 multi-year
activities in 2016 - 17) patients gain access to early Australian research positions
phase clinical trials
333
Enabled
$3.5
Leveraged
Contributed
17
funding to enable
Australian blood cancer patients
to participate in biomarker studies
Above centre (biological marker testing assists
Image courtesy of Epworth
with patient identification for
Below left
Image taken at Peter clinical trials and new treatments) million
MacCallum Cancer Centre
in ‘matched’ funds by working
clinical trials of new treatments collaboratively with government
8 to commence as well and philanthropic partners
as 96 publications
Snowdome Funded Research Projects Image taken at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Snowdome’s focus on Since 2010, Snowdome Foundation Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) –
has extended 27 grants representing background phase & Year 1: Epworth
multi-year funding has over $16.5 million to fund 40 multi- Research Foundation and Peter
ensured research trials, year Australian researcher positions. MacCallum Cancer Centre/Victorian
biomarker studies and Over 85% of Snowdome’s available Comprehensive Cancer Centre
funds have been invested in cutting- 2017 - 18 (co-funded)
projects have run to edge research. Snowdome’s focus
completion and are on multi-year funding has ensured Analysis of cell-free tumour DNA
supporting Australian research trials, biomarker studies and to allow for more comprehensive
projects have run to completion and and sensitive assessment of the
blood cancer patients. are supporting Australian blood mutations present in patients with
cancer patients. B-cell malignancies (lymphoma and
myeloma). Also to be used to perform
Snowdome Foundation grants include:
translational research. Multi-year
Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre funding of five research positions
for Lymphoma Genomics: Peter including:
MacCallum Cancer Centre 2017 - 20
Over • Laboratory Technician
85%
To develop a centre of research
excellence using genomics to • Two Tissue Coordinators
improve diagnosis, prognosis and • Molecular Haematopathologist
fast-track personalised treatments for
patients with lymphoma and related • Molecular Fellow
of Snowdome’s available funds malignancies. Multi-year funding of • Consumables testing costs
have been invested in cutting- nine research positions including:
edge research
• Medical Director Grade 1 Medical Scientist for
Molecular Haematology: Peter
• Project Manager/Tissue MacCallum Cancer Centre 2017 - 18
Coordinator To initiate and accelerate next-
• Clinical Bioinformatician generation epigenetic blood cancer
clinical trials.
• Molecular Fellow
• Two Laboratory Technicians Victorian Comprehensive Cancer
• Supervising Scientist Centre Trial Coordinator: Peter
MacCallum Cancer Centre 2016 - 18
• Software Engineer
To fast-track blood cancer trials and
• Data Manager accrue patients to these innovative
clinical trials.
• Consumable testing costs
T-cell lymphoma clinical research:
Clonal Haematopoiesis Research
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
& Fellowship: The University of
2016 - 19
Melbourne 2017 - 19 (co-funded)
To develop a biomarker for T-cell
To identify critical genetic factors
lymphoma patients undergoing
(known as clonal haematopoiesis) that
treatments with epigenetic agent
will contribute to greater predictability
romidepsin.
of a bone marrow transplant being
successful. Extension of the
Klempfner Fellowship. Vision Super – Snowdome
Foundation Fellowship: The
University of Melbourne 2016 - 18
To develop new molecular profiling
of tumour samples for blood
cancer patients.
10 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 11
Snowdome Funded Research Projects
Centre of Research Excellence in tiered approach to personalised Clinical Trial Research Nurse: Royal
Myeloma at Victorian Comprehensive molecular profiling. Melbourne Hospital 2013 - 16
Cancer Centre: The University of To fast-track epigenetic blood cancer
Melbourne 2014 - 19 George and Yolanda Klempfner trials and accrue patients to these
To develop a centre of research Fellowship: The University of innovative clinical trials.
excellence using genomics to fast- Melbourne 2015 - 17
track treatments for patients with To coordinate a ‘world-first’ clinical trial Clinical Trial Research Nurse: Peter
myeloma and related malignancies. in BET inhibitors. MacCallum Cancer Centre 2012 - 13
(directed)
• Julie Borschmann Fellowship:
The University of Melbourne Eva & Les Erdi-Snowdome Fellowship To fast-track epigenetic blood cancer
(directed funding) in New Haematological Malignancies: trials and accrue patients to these
The University of Melbourne 2014 - 17 innovative clinical trials.
• Comprehensive clinical and (co-funded)
tumour database To investigate a new drug class and Victorian Epigenetics Group Clinical
• Bioinfomatics project and develop a ‘world-first’ clinical trial to Fellow: The Alfred Hospital 2012 - 13
related costs monitor its effect on the immune (Part funded to 66%)
system and help predict blood cancer To develop and accrue patients to
• Morris Family Fellowship
patients that will benefit most. early phase epigenetic clinical trials
• Two Data Managers/Nurses for leukaemia patients.
Alfred Research Scientist 2015 - 16
Gandel Philanthropy – Snowdome (co-funded) Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Foundation Innovation Fellowship: To validate identified biomarkers which Clinical Fellowship 2011
Walter & Eliza Hall Institute 2016 - 18 will lead to establishing clinical trials. To develop and accrue patients to
To develop and use biomarkers to Also, to support research on circulating early phase epigenetic clinical trials
optimise early phase lymphoma tumour DNA. for blood cancer patients.
clinical trials using a ‘world-first’ class
of anti-cancer drugs. Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Clinical Fellowship 2015 - 17
Aza Biomarker in MDS Research (co-funded)
Assistant, consumables & analysis: To develop and accrue patients to
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre novel epigenetic clinical trials for
2015 - 16 blood cancer patients.
To research if circulating tumour DNA
(ctDNA) can be used as novel strategy Alfred Research Scientist 2014
to monitor disease burden in the To identify early biomarkers and
myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). genetic signatures associated with
epigenetic treatments.
Phase 1 study of MicroLEN in AML
and MDS: Royal Melbourne Hospital Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
2015 - 17 Clinical Fellow 2013 - 14
To develop a clinical trial to reduce the To develop and accrue patients to
rate of AML relapse after allogeneic early phase epigenetic clinical trials for
transplantation whilst avoiding the risk blood cancer patients.
of Graft versus Host Disease.
Image taken at Cartherics Lab (MHTP)
Victorian Epigenetics Group
Molecular Profiling of MDS Grade 2 Management Team 2012 - 14
Scientist, consumables & analysis:
The University of Melbourne 2015 To provide collaborative support for
Victorian Epigenetic Group (VEG)
To develop a clinically applicable clinical trials and seek ongoing funding
molecular predictive index of response for VEG.
to azacitidine in MDS through a three- Melissa Jones
Volunteer
12 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 13
Effecters of Change for Diversity Donor Events Snowdome funded researchers sharing their
passion for research at Blood: Attract + Repel
The Snowdome Foundation Diversity and gender equity in the that the under representation of
boardroom and in the broader women in medical research is a loss
has a strong, inclusive work place is important. To avoid of talent and opportunity. To borrow
culture and recognises the ‘groupthink’ it is essential to bring from Prof Iris Bohnet, expert in gender
importance of diversity and together people with different equity at the Harvard Kennedy School,
backgrounds and perspectives along the ‘leaky pipeline’ persists.
gender equity. Snowdome with diverse experiences and skills.
has an all female executive This contributes to a more inclusive Snowdome & Maddie’s Vision
and better performing workplace as fund numerous research fellows
led by CEO, Miriam Dexter and we are proud to highlight that
well as better performing boards
and a skill based board that tend to make better decisions two recipients are female medical
comprising four female as a result. researchers, Dr Mary Ann Anderson,
the Gandel Philanthropy-Snowdome
board members (29% There is still a big gap in diversity and Foundation Innovation Fellow at the
female representation). gender equity. This gap exists despite Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI)
public discussion, initiatives1 and and Dr Carrie Van Der Weyden, Peter
targets2 set to improve the inequality. MacCallum Cancer Centre Clinical
Fellow. Also, Maddie’s Vision is
• The percentage of women on providing funding for a project headed
ASX200 boards is 26.7%3 by Dr Lynette Chee at the Royal
• 39.1% representation of women on Melbourne Hospital. Furthermore,
government boards4 Snowdome funds numerous research
roles that have been filled by women
• Only nine female CEOs in the including research scientists,
ASX 2005 clinical trial nurses, research project
• Women are under represented in managers, tissue coordinators and
senior positions in medical research data managers.
and academia. Furthermore, they
Snowdome and Maddie’s Vision plan
are less likely to be a recipient of
research funding or to be selected
to raise funds to launch a fellowship The philanthropic dollar The events highlighted the passion To hear directly from our inspiring
supporting female researchers in and commitment the Snowdome Snowdome researchers visit our
Women representation underpins ‘Blue Sky
39.1%
as a lead investigator1
science with a focus on haematology. researchers have to making a YouTube channel (Snowdome
The Snowdome Foundation has a The fellowship aims to bridge the Research’. difference to the lives of people with Foundation Network). All panellists and
strong, inclusive culture and recognises gender gap and enable the applicant blood cancer. They are driven to find our host, Professor Miles Prince have
the importance of diversity and gender to continue a strong research better outcomes through improved been recorded in a series of interviews
Blood: Attract + Repel therapies and personalised medicine, called ‘One Cool Minute.’ They are
equity. Snowdome has an all female career, ultimately paving the way for
on government boards4 executive led by CEO, Miriam Dexter promotion into a leadership position. Passionate Snowdome supporters matching aspects of a patient’s cancer inspiring, educational and entertaining.
and a skill based board comprising four The scholarship recipient will also were invited to two unique events with the best treatment. This involves
female board members (29% female benefit from a mentor program. combining science and art at The everyone working together from the
representation). Maddie Riewoldt’s Details of this exciting fellowship will University of Melbourne Science researcher to the clinician treating
Vision also has an all female executive be announced in 2018. Gallery. Ahead of viewing the the patient.
led by CEO, Nicky Long coupled interactive exhibition guests were In addressing the importance of
with a female chair of the board, given the opportunity to hear from
1. In December 2017, the National Health and Medical philanthropic research funds,
Jennifer Trethewey. Snowdome researchers and our host,
Research Council (NHMRC) announced a boost in Prof Mark Dawson emphasised that
funding for Australia’s most talented female researchers. Professor Miles Prince on how they the philanthropic dollar underpins
There is a strong commitment by An initiative to close the gap in funding rates between
are advancing the fight against
Snowdome and Maddie’s Vision to be
male and female researchers and to retain female talent what he terms as ‘Blue Sky Research’.
in the health and medical research sector. blood cancers. Government funded research tends
leaders and effecters of change for 2. AICD called for a 30% gender diversity target on S&P/
diversity and gender equity. ASX 200 company boards. 2016 ended with 2% increase
The panel of Snowdome funded to focus on addressing incremental
in female board memberships to 21.7%
3. (AICD Gender Diversity Report 2018) researchers addressed questions such questions which makes it challenging
Snowdome together with Maddie’s 4. (AICD Gender Diversity Report 2017)
as, what drives them as researchers, to pursue truly innovative ideas.
5. (Consultant Conrad Liveris gathered the data on
Vision are passionate about supporting CEOs and chairs at Australia’s largest 200 companies for whether genomics can predict cancer Snowdome research is critical because
female medical researchers with a the third year running, and released it to coincide with
and importantly what do philanthropic it is where innovative advances will be
International Women’s Day – Article : http://www.abc.net.
focus on haematology, blood cancers au/news/2017-03-08/fewer-women-ceos-than-men- funds bring to research. made that change the natural history
and bone marrow failure. We recognise named-john/8327938 of the disease.
14 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 15
Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre Andrew Wilson, Pennie Callaghan, Bruce Wilson,
Christine Wilson and James Wilson
for Lymphoma Genomics
An incredibly generous donation from In addition to this generous donation,
Christine and Bruce Wilson of $5.5 both Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Contributions/Impact
million over 4 years will establish a and The University of Melbourne
state of the art centre for lymphoma will commit additional resources to
genomic testing at the Peter support broadening the scope of the
$5.5 MacCallum Cancer Centre. Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre for
Lymphoma Genomics. Researchers
million Genomic testing involves taking a
patient’s sample to look for critical
plan to extend the concept of this
complex genetic analysis to myeloid
donation
gene mutations that are known to malignancies such as acute myeloid
play a role in their particular blood leukaemia. The Snowdome Foundation
cancer. The results of the test can then aims to raise $10 million for genomic
provide a more accurate diagnosis, research at the Wilson Centre for
1,000
lymphoma
prognosis and treatment journey
such as a clinical trial to access
Lymphoma Genomics.
drugs that work against specific gene Associate Professor David Westerman,
patients each year
mutations. Up until now a limited who will lead the research project,
will be benefited
by genomic testing number of patients had access to this says that advancement of genomics
testing. The donation will allow over will eventually eliminate the need for
1,000 lymphoma patients every year chemotherapy in treating cancer.
throughout Australia, New Zealand and “With this partnership between
Snowdome aims Asia Pacific to receive the benefits of research, clinical, university and
to raise genomic testing. philanthropy, we are now able to fast-
$10 The Wilson Family pledged the $5.5
track genetic testing to more patients.
Genomics and personalised medicine
million million towards the research program
as they were struck by how much
is what will aid targeted, less toxic
cancer treatments.”
for genomic genetic testing can save lives, or
research at the
Wilson Centre improve the quality of life for patients Snowdome Foundation would like to
for Lymphoma with lymphoma. Christine had been a express their sincerest thanks for this
Genomics lymphoma patient at Peter MacCallum very generous donation.
Cancer Centre for 20 years and
wanted patients to experience the
benefits of this cutting-edge testing.
The donation will help
The Wilson family were personally Snowdome achieve its
moved to act after seeing so many mission to accelerate next-
blood cancer patients not respond
to conventional treatment or relapse
generation treatments for
sooner than expected. Australian blood cancer
“Acts of huge generosity such as
patients to help them live
setting up the Wilson Centre are what longer, better lives.
drives a world-first” said Professor
Miles Prince, Snowdome Co-Founder
and Director.
The Wilson Family hope that their
support will make the centre’s
ground-breaking work accessible to all
Australians affected by blood cancer.
They are optimistic that their generous
donation will inspire others to give
towards making this a standard of
care for everyone in the future.
16 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 17
Eve’s Patient Perspective Translating Research into Clinical Practice
Real Hope for Lymphoma Patients Circulating Tumour DNA
I was diagnosed with Hodgkins This is why I am thrilled that there are
Lymphoma two weeks before my generous philanthropic people like
36th birthday and yes I was in shock… Christine and Bruce Wilson investing in
In some ways I still am. Everything innovative research in this area, asking
you are told when you hear the word the question, “Why?”
cancer is true. You only retain 10% of
the information that is being thrown at Research is essential for disease
you at a rapid pace. After six months prevention and treatment.
of treatment at Prince of Wales Public If researchers have the ability to
Hospital in Sydney – which included discover that you may have a genetic
chemotherapy and radiotherapy – I predisposition to lymphoma, there
am pleased to say that I have been maybe lifestyle factors you can adjust
clear for 7 years. I live with minimal side to minimise your risk. What I consider
effects and try not to complain! even more exciting is targeted therapy
for your cancer. Patients might be able
However, what I do think about most to gain access to what is now referred
days (and I am not sure it will ever go to as ‘personalised medicine’ –
away) is why I got blood cancer. I will a targeted treatment that will just kill off
Patients might be able to be the first to admit that I am no elite the bad stuff and not interfere with the
athlete nor do I have a vegan lifestyle good stuff. This is a huge comfort as
gain access to what is now
sipping tumeric almond milk lattes sadly many blood cancer patients do
referred to as ‘personalised (and no offence if this is you). However, experience relapse.
medicine’ – a targeted on the other side of the coin, I was not
living an unhealthy life. There are numerous types of
treatment that will just kill lymphomas and sub-types. It is a
In 2018, our key fundraising The potential for clinicians to utilise bicycle relays, birthday celebrations
off the bad stuff and not As far as I’m aware there was no common cancer. I hope that one day, ctDNA for diagnosis and monitoring as well as personal donations. In 2018,
family history of cancer. I am the we know why one person over another initiative will be to seek
interfere with the good disease progression is vast, however our key fundraising initiative will be
granddaughter of holocaust survivors is more likely to get lymphoma, so funding for Year 2 and Year research to validate results of ctDNA to seek funding for Year 2 and Year
stuff. This is a huge comfort and often wondered if this was that they can take steps in their life to
3 of the ctDNA research against biopsies are essential to take 3 with $295,000 needed each year.
as sadly many blood cancer connected, however this is most minimise this risk. I also look forward to this discovery from the research lab to All donations are ‘matched’ by the
probably completely irrelevant. I have the time when patients with lymphoma with $295,000 needed
patients do experience the clinic. Epworth Medical Foundation. We look
no family predisposition to cancer have treatment that is effective with no each year. All donations are forward to keeping you abreast of this
relapse. and was blissfully unaware of genetic side effects. Who knows, maybe even The Snowdome Foundation and the
risk factors. in the future with genomics testing, ‘matched’ by the Epworth Epworth Medical Foundation are
innovative research for Australian
blood cancer patients.
we might be able to predict and then Medical Foundation. partnering to fund the advancement of
During treatment I did meet with prevent lymphoma. I do not think this is ctDNA also known as ‘liquid biopsies’
a genetic pathologist to try to wishful thinking. Look how far science, Currently diagnosis and assessment for clinical use. It is a true collaboration Image taken at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
understand the genetic factors medicine and research has come. of blood cancer progression relies on as it leverages the expertise from
that may have impacted me to be an invasive biopsy of the lymph node or Snowdome funded initiatives:
diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. We need to make a point of fostering, bone marrow, depending on the cancer Christine and Bruce Wilson Centre
I understand that in 2010 there was encouraging and thanking those who type. The biopsy is then analysed to for Lymphoma Genomics and Centre
not a lot of research into the genetics are able and willing to give back. determine the genetic make-up of of Research Excellence-Myeloma.
of Hodgkins Lymphoma. Like lots of Thank you Christine and Bruce Wilson. the tumour that ultimately influences This collaboration aims to develop,
lymphoma sufferers, I was and still am I do not need to know you to say that the treatment path. Unfortunately, the optimise and validate ctDNA-based Key fundraising initiate is to seek
searching for a reason why. you are truly amazing. procedure is painful and the genomic assays (including complementary funding for year 2 and 3 of the
analysis is limited to the biopsied area. genomic techniques) to be used in the ctDNA research with
Genetics involves the scientific studies
$295,000
However, new research indicates that detection and monitoring of ctDNA
of genes and their effects, ‘genetics’ DNA from the tumour can be found
and ‘genomics’ are definitely buzz in B-cell malignancies (including
circulating in blood. Analysing circulating lymphoma and myeloma) to a
words. You hear lots about breast tumour DNA (ctDNA) may provide a
cancer and women with the genetic diagnostic standard. needed each year
broader perspective of the tumour
marker of the BRCA gene and the well- Eve Propper that is not limited to the biopsied area. Throughout 2017, we thanked our
known ‘Angelina Jolie effect.’ However, It is hoped that a simple blood test to generous Snowdome donors that
there was not a lot that I was aware of detect ctDNA can one day replace an funded the first year of this three-year
about lymphoma. invasive biopsy. project. These donors raised funds in
18 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 19A Vision of Improving Personalised
Cancer Treatment
Dr Piers Blombery, a Three years ago, Vision Super looked increase his susceptibility to skin
at their insurance claims data – cancer, but he says the medication
clinical and laboratory 25% of their insurance claims were has been great. “Really the worst
haematologist and the cancer-related and sadly 46% of their thing is that I wake up each day with
medical lead of the members’ deaths were also due to curlier hair!”
cancer. Vision Super decided they
Molecular Haematology needed to do more to help prevent “Going on the targeted therapy has
laboratory at the Peter the devastation cancer creates for allowed me to live the life I want to live,
it has given me freedom.”
MacCallum Cancer Centre, their members, families, and the
wider community.
stated that the generous Vision Super-Snowdome Foundation
Fellow, Dr Piers Blombery, a clinical
support provided by Over the last three years Vision Super
and laboratory haematologist and
has supported a genomics fellowship
Vision Super has made a through the Snowdome Foundation the medical lead of the Molecular
remarkable difference in and as a result has made a significant Haematology laboratory at the Peter
difference to Australian blood MacCallum Cancer Centre, stated that
increasing access to blood the generous support provided by
cancer patients.
cancer genetic testing Vision Super has made a remarkable
for patients. Since 2014, Snowdome has funded difference in increasing access
cutting-edge genomics research and to blood cancer genetic testing
supported incredible advances in the for patients.
treatment of cancer through genomics
testing. Patients can undergo genetic “The partnership between Vision
testing to help identify mutations that Super and Snowdome has allowed
guide treatment, identify targeted me to create a team of scientists with
therapies as well as identifying patients the expertise to perform the genomic
suitable for clinical trials. testing like Paul had,” explained
Dr Blombery. “Our team analyses
The collaborative partnership between genomic data in blood cancer,
Sadly Snowdome and Vision Super has had develops new assays to detect these
46%
a positive impact on the lives of many mutations and helps guide patients
Australian blood cancer patients, to new specific and personalised
including Paul Omond. medications.” These highly specialised
tests are now performed through the
Paul is a 36-year-old from Scoresby, Molecular Haematology Laboratory
of Vision Super members’
who in 2012, was diagnosed with Hairy at Peter Mac for hundreds of patients
deaths were due to cancer Cell Leukaemia, a rare type of blood a month throughout Australia, South
cancer. Conventional therapy proved East Asia, and New Zealand.
to be the wrong path for Paul and the
side effects resulted in a large portion For the second year, Vision Super
of his bowel being removed. Paul’s employees also participated in the
leukaemia then relapsed much sooner Murray to Moyne charity bike ride.
than expected. Genetic testing of The group of cyclists, support crew
Paul’s leukaemia cells found that they and donors raised almost $35,000,
contained a BRAF mutation, which making an accumulated total of close
allowed him to go onto a novel targeted to $50,000.
therapy specific to that mutation.
Paul’s outstanding response to specific Vision Super’s partnership with
therapy has greatly improved his Snowdome is about supporting and
quality of life and his cancer is now caring for individuals like Paul, who are
controlled with minimal side effects. the individuals behind the insurance
statistics. Vision Super truly is making
Instead of chemo, Paul takes four a difference for Australians with
tablets a day. Paul states that he has blood cancer. Dr Piers Blombery
to be careful, because the tablets Vision Super – Snowdome Foundation Fellow
Researcher and Clinician
20 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 21Researcher Profile The ‘Bloody Good Dinner’
Dr Chan Cheah A Bloody Good Success
MBBS (Hons) DMedSc FRACP FRCPA
to really make magic happen. highlight the gains that can be The Snowdome Foundation and services to make this event such a
He studied Medicine at the University achieved from a national and Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision joined forces success. Snowdome would also like
of Western Australia and completed international clinical trial network. in 2017 to create the ‘Bloody Good to acknowledge our five major event
a Translational Research Fellowship The WA Lymphoma Centre of Dinner’. The night captivated guests partners who helped to make the
at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Excellence aims to achieve this. from the minute they entered the event truly memorable: Blakes Feast,
(Melbourne, Australia) and an blue and red themed historic Meat Captain’s Choice, Dann Event Hire,
Advanced Lymphoma Fellowship Dr Cheah was fortunate in his career Market Pavilion in Melbourne. It really Fred’s of Merivale and Town Square.
at MD Anderson Cancer Center to have some incredible mentors was a night to remember showcasing See page 43 for our full list of pro-bono
(Houston, Texas, USA). He currently that helped guide and shape his French Champagne and some of event partners.
works at Sir Charles Gardiner Hospital research career. He is passionate Australia’s best Gin, Vodka, Whisky and
and Hollywood Private Hospital about fostering the same programme Wines. Fred’s of Merivale Chef, Danielle The ‘Bloody Good Dinner’ will be held
in Perth. with the team of ten haematologists Alvarez, created a delicious seasonal again on Wednesday, May 23, 2018
currently working at his site. Dr Cheah menu that brought out the incredible at the Meat Market. We look forward
Chan has just been awarded the 2017 believes in the critical importance flavours in O’Connors beef and the to another successful evening in
WA Early Career Cancer Researcher of of encouraging young specialists to unforgettable seafood station. partnership with Maddie Riewoldt’s Snowdome Foundation and Maddie Riewoldt’s
the year. undertake specific research training Vision. Vision Board members
to ensure continued progress in the Throughout the evening guests were
Dr Cheah has developed connections treatment of these cancers. entertained by MC Hamish McLachlan
“To get anything done you through his career working in WA, and world-class blood researchers,
Melbourne and the USA. This Dr Cheah believes it’s an incredibly Professor Mark Dawson and Professor How can clonal
need dreamers, dollars enables him to tap into global clinical exciting time to be in blood cancer Miles Prince AM. haematopoiesis increase
and doers. Dreaming is the expertise, new drugs, trial protocols research and that Snowdome is a the success of bone
and importantly allows data for rare wonderful enabler. Although great The evening allowed the audience to
easy part …” marrow transplants? The ‘Bloody Good Dinner’ exceeded
diseases to be pooled. progress has been made, many learn more about blood cancer and the all expectations raising over
— Ros Harvey Sydney Morning
$400,000
unanswered questions remain. importance of blood cancer research. Put simply clonal
Herald 20/11/17 Impressively, he is collaborating on Research is expensive and can be Hamish McLachlan led a question and haematopoiesis (CH) is a term
a world-first Phase I clinical trial in greatly accelerated by the generosity answer session with Miles Prince that used for the process of forming
patients with follicular lymphoma at of donors. Donations go directly covered some personal sharing as well a sub-population of genetically
Dr Chan Cheah dreams about a world these three sites. The trial is examining towards sponsoring clinical trial as easy to understand explanations distinct blood cells. CH is already
where patients are not dying of blood the combination of three non- nurses, research fellows and essential about blood cancer. known to predispose patients to
cancers and believes that we are on chemotherapy agents. Samples will personnel that make trials possible. blood cancers and bone marrow
the cusp of some dramatic inroads to be analysed to assist in determining This can immediately translate to new Mark Dawson shared his vision to
failure syndromes. The Peter
make this a reality. With support from why patients respond the way they do therapies and longer, better lives for increase bone marrow transplant
MacCallum Cancer Centre will
the Snowdome Foundation, Dr Cheah to treatment. This data will be used to patients with blood cancers. success. To achieve this, important
undertake a comprehensive
is establishing a Lymphoma Centre help shape future recommendations If there was ever a time to donate to research needs to be conducted to
analysis of bone marrow
of Excellence in Western Australia for follicular lymphoma treatment. blood cancer research, it is now. identify critical genetic factors that
transplant patients and donors
(WA). Currently WA is involved in This study builds on earlier ground- It is researchers like Dr Cheah that contribute to greater predictability of
for CH. Identifying these critical
fewer investigator-initiated trials than breaking research conducted by Dr are ‘making hope real’. a successful bone marrow transplant.
genetic factors may contribute
other Australian States. Unfortunately, Cheah while at MD Anderson Cancer Not only will the research save more
to greater predictability of a
this can mean fewer new treatment Centre where he reported on the lives but it will also ensure that precious
bone marrow transplant being
options for WA patients or interstate unexpected and severe toxicity of bone marrow donations are utilised
successful. This data will then
travel to participate in trials. The WA combining three biological agents in the right patients increasing the
be used to perform a detailed
Lymphoma Centre of Excellence (Cheah CY et al. Blood. 2015 May 21; chance of a successful transplant.
analysis to uncover how CH
will enable Dr Cheah and his team to 125(21): 3357–3359). evolves to blood cancers and
focus on helping lymphoma patients The ‘Bloody Good Dinner’ exceeded
all expectations raising over $400,000. bone marrow failure.
at their site receive access to Furthermore, Western Australian
next-generation treatments. Hodgkins Lymphoma patients Funds will be used to support a
considered unsuitable for world-first medical research project
Dr Cheah is a Haematologist and chemotherapy will soon have the in clonal haematopoiesis. A generous
clinician-researcher internationally opportunity to participate in a new donation by George and Yolanda
recognised for his expertise in trial. The trial commences in late Klempfner will enable the continuation
lymphoma. He is committed to curing 2018 and is being led by the Julie of the fellowship position in this area
more patients with lymphoma and Borschmann Fellow (Snowdome of research. Snowdome wishes to
believes it takes a team of dedicated directed funding), Dr Michael thank all its pro-bono partners who
researchers with global connections Dickinson. Such collaborations generously donated their time and
22 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 23Fundraising Events
Warwick Sherman and his ‘Snowdome Occasional A Dazzling Event
crew won the Corinthian Coarse Language Too’ Set Sail Hosted by Bulgari
class (all amateur crew) in and Won!
At the end of 2017, Bulgari generously
the 2017 Sydney to Hobart When well–known Cruising Yacht Club chose Snowdome as their local
of Australia offshore racer, Warwick charity of choice to raise awareness
Yacht Race. and funds for the Christine and
Sherman’s lymphoma returned in
2015, he was fortunate to participate in Bruce Wilson Centre for Lymphoma
a clinical trial with ibrutinib. In October Genomics. The event that was held
2016, after further chemotherapy just before Christmas, provided guests
and a stem cell transplant from his with the opportunity to view, try on
brother, Warwick was again given the and purchase some extraordinarily
all clear. Sherman is now in remission beautiful Bulgari pieces. A percentage
for the second time and believes it’s of the proceeds from the evening went
all about second chances – a second directly to Snowdome raising $17,500.
chance at life and a second chance Snowdome Director and co-founder,
at the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Rob Tandy, thanked Bulgari and
In 2012, Warwick tackled the Sydney highlighted the important research
to Hobart Race when he was first being conducted at the Christine and
diagnosed with lymphoma. While Bruce Wilson Centre for Lymphoma
Warwick did incredibly well winning his Genomics in personalising blood
division on a handicap he felt he was cancer treatment.
still weak from the chemotherapy. So
more determined than ever Warwick
and his crew raised the Snowdome
Raising critical funds main sail in the 2017 Sydney to Hobart
and awareness for Yacht Race to increase awareness
Snowdome and raise critical funds for blood
cancer. Snowdome Occasional
Coarse Language Too did incredibly
well winning the hotly contested
Corinthian class (all amateur crew).
Out of a fleet of 102 boats only one
yacht smaller crossed the finished
line ahead of them. Snowdome would
like to congratulate Warwick and the
crew for a fabulous race. Thank you for
your generous support raising $12,340
for blood cancer research and your
inspiring story of determination.
$12,340
raised for blood cancer research
by Warwick Sherman and his crew
Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 25
24Fundraising Events
The FireFlies Antipodes Riding
Contributions for those that Suffer
The Fireflies riders know riding a bike
for eight hours a day is a painful and
$17,500 demanding experience but is nothing
compared to the physical, mental and
raised by BVLGARI
emotional pain that cancer patients
Australia for the
Wilson Centre and their families endure on a weekly
basis. This is why they are committed
to raising money to support
cutting-edge medical research and
treatments for Australians with
blood cancer.
$28,000
raised by The Fire- So in March 2017, 8 riders made a
Flies Antipodes circumnavigation of Tasmania and
for Snowdome rode over 1,000 km in the process to ‘Wogs at Work’ for Snowdome
raise funds for Snowdome. Snowdome Nick Giannopoulos is well known in
is grateful to The FireFlies Antipodes Australia for his series of comedies
for raising nearly $28,000, making an focusing on non-anglosaxon migrants
accumulated total of $57,000.
Donation An outstanding result!
in Australia. In September 2017, Nick
toured his hit stage show ‘Wogs at
from Michela and
Adrian Fini to Work’ with Sooshi Mango and kindly
establish the WA Generous Donation from chose Snowdome as the charity of
Lymphoma Centre
Michela and Adrian Fini choice for the VIP opening night.
of Excellence
Nick is a passionate supporter of
Western Australian Property Professor Miles Prince and the work
Developer Adrian Fini was recently he is conducting to help Australian
awarded the 2017 Pinnacle Awards’ blood cancer patients live a longer,
Business Leader of the Year. Mr Fini better life. Nick explained why he felt
$16,000 is tributed with changing the Perth Snowdome was set apart from other
raised by ‘Wogs cityscape and is best known for his charities and asked guests to kindly
at Work’ for blood redevelopment of the State Buildings donate a blue note as they exited
cancer research
on St Georges Terrace. Now Mr Fini the theatre. The night was a great
is contributing to the development success not only raising awareness
of a WA Lymphoma Centre of for Snowdome but also raising almost
Excellence through the donation of $16,000 for essential blood cancer
his prize money. The donation to the research. We thank Nick and Sooshi
Snowdome Foundation will go directly Mango for the laughs and for choosing
to the establishment of the WA Snowdome as their charity of choice.
Lymphoma Centre of Excellence led
by Dr Chan Cheah. Snowdome would
like to thank and acknowledge Michela
and Adrian Fini for their generous
donation and personal efforts to
advance this research to improve the
lives of Western Australians living with
blood cancer.
26 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 27Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision
Highlights from Year in Review
Report from Chair Reflections from our CEO Thank you to the board, committees, immunosuppressive treatments and
partners, sponsors, donors, volunteers bone marrow transplantation can be
2017: what a year for Maddie Riewoldt’s A highlight of 2017 was receiving a Highlights for the Year
and all the supporters for what you give can be associated with life-altering
Vision - it’s been a stand out for all of us! text message in late December from us and to me personally. Our research side effects.
Elissa Vanderland; “He’s done it, already has great achievements but
Our unwavering commitment to our Audited funds raised
he’s engrafted”. Immediately I was our work is only just beginning and we Approximately 160 young Australians since inception (June
vision has taken us to a new level, with overcome with emotion. Happiness are diagnosed with a BMF syndrome
look forward to continuing with you to 2015 - June 2017)
another successful year of raising at the good news for Elliot and relief each year. Many more will present with
$1.877
build our vision towards a cure.
significant funds. We are dedicated to that his family finally had good news related bone marrow conditions such
ensuring these funds are channelled to after a 300 day battle in hospital. Elliot Big Hugs for a special year ahead, as Acute Myeloid Leukamia (AML) and
meaningful scientific research projects
to ultimately find a cure for Bone Marrow
is not cured but he has been given the Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and million
best chance at health with his second rarer conditions such as congenital
Failure Syndrome (BMFS). Bone Marrow Transplant. I don’t need abnormalities of white cell and platelet
to tell you how we all felt when his first production. Sadly, more than half Pro bono support
We could never have achieved this
transplant failed. of these patients will die from
without the ongoing energy and support
their disease. $584,598
of so many people and organisations Elliot is a mascot for me – a real fighter
On 24th February 2015, from in and around the community. and determined little man. He keeps The biology of BMF and the biology of
This includes the collaboration with us focussed on ensuring that his long AML and MDS are closely linked and
26 year-old, Tasmanian the Snowdome Foundation and the in many (30%) of instances patients
road of overwhelming treatments Nicky Long Expense ratio
born, Maddie Riewoldt
22%
invaluable support and partnership they become shorter and that we continue initially diagnosed with BMF will evolve
tragically lost her five- provide us. our energetic passion towards into these related conditions over the
year fight against a type of Three years ago, our organisation was
alternative, less toxic and more known Research Projects: course of months to years. The close
treatment outcomes. The Cornerstone of Our relationship of these conditions is via
Bone Marrow Failure (BMF) born from the loss of our gorgeous
their shared root cause of abnormal
Maddie on 24 February 2015 and we The Vanderlands are not alone and Mission For a Cure Grants committed
called Aplastic Anaemia. bone marrow biology, which leads
In June 2015, the Riewoldt
strive every day to make her proud
and honour her desire to find a cure
as emotionally challenging as it is to
hear patient stories, it is a highlight
What is the Problem We
Are Trying to Solve?
to the suppression of normal bone
marrow productivity (bone marrow
$1.3
family established Maddie for Bone Marrow Failure Syndrome. As
a long-time friend of Fiona and Joerg
for me personally to connect with failure) and/or the emergence of million*
them. Quinn, Blake, Joel, Adrian, “Bone marrow failure syndromes are
Riewoldt’s Vision. Maddie’s Riewoldt, it is my commitment to them, not common conditions, but they are
abnormal bone marrow stem cells 7 research projects
Sam, Indyanna, Harley, Jane and with cancerous patterns of growth
Vision was established to and Maddie, to continue our charge and Luci – just to name a few. It was also a devastating, long term and completely (the hallmark of AML and MDS).
deliver what we set out to do.
raise funds to find a cure highlight to hear the happy news that debilitating conditions associated with Dissecting and understanding the Total funds raised
Jamie Wiedermann not only became a high resource burden for patients,
through funding innovative All of our supporters, sponsors and
pregnant but had her healthy little families and the community.
bone marrow biology that drives since inception
ambassadors have played their part in BMF syndromes is the key to finding (June 2015 -
medical research. girl after her long battle with Aplastic The impact of these diseases is a cure. Critically, the findings in bone December 2017)
making us the success we are and will
Anaemia. It is tough being part of magnified by the fact that they often
continue to be, your generosity and
the highs and lows these families go affect young, otherwise completely
marrow biology of BMF will also result
in improved understanding of AML and
$2,252,685
commitment is extraordinary and it is an
through but it is the lifeblood of our well people at a time when they MDS biology and result in improved
honour to serve you as Chair.
mission and we are grateful for their should be at their most productive outcomes for patients diagnosed with
I look forward to working with you all in openness and welcoming us into their in education and employment. these life threatening conditions. Funds raised financial
2018 as we strive to #fightlikemaddie hearts when life sometimes couldn’t The supportive care (blood product year 2016 - 2017
be worse. transfusions, antibiotics and Critically, Maddie’s Vision has been
and make Maddie’s wish a reality.
hospital monitoring) and definitive deliberately strategic in the type and $683,660
I know that this is also what drives the therapies (complex immune nature of its awarding of funding. We
extraordinary researchers that we suppressing therapies and bone have provided fellowship and project
are funding. It is also what connects marrow transplantation) are hugely grants across these 5 pillars: *Grants are awarded every calendar year. This is an
us with the generosity from our expensive in terms of both direct ongoing cycle as we search the nation for the most
important research projects.
Ambassadors. Together with the costs (estimated at $300,000 per 1. Comprehensive clinical data and
dedicated committee members, we intensive hospital treatment and sample collection on current and
set important fundraising and granting >$1,000,000 over the lifetime of the newly diagnosed patients with BMF.
targets to achieve our vision. patient) and in terms of lost earnings 2. Genomic and epigeneomic control
Jennifer Trethewey and lost opportunities for the patient of Haematopoeitic Stem Cell (HSC)
Maddie’s Vision isn’t able to achieve
and their carers. Critically even survival, growth and differentiation.
what we do without so many.
currently useful therapies such as
28 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 29Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision
Highlights from Year in Review
3. The components and control of the 2017 - 2020: Genome editing of to-capacity crowd (45,000+), and
HSC niche within the bone marrow haematopoietic stem and progenitor the team were led onto the ground by
(microenvironment) cells to uncover novel therapeutics Nick Riewoldt for one last time, making
for aplastic anaemia and other bone Maddie’s Match a night to remember.
4. Abnormalities of immune function
marrow failure syndromes (Dr Yih-Chih
5. Monitoring and predictors Chan and Prof Mark Dawson, Sir Peter Off the field, the night was just
(biomarkers) of prognosis, MacCallum Cancer Centre) as unforgettable with Melbourne
response to treatment and rockers, British India, performing a set
disease evolution 2017 - 2019: Predicting malignant inside the arena, and limited-edition
transformation of bone marrow failure merchandise selling out as Saints and
Fellowship grants have been directed syndromes using longitudinal targeted Tiger fans got behind the cause.
at attracting and retaining the best sequencing of peripheral blood
young researchers into the field of BMF and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) (Dr Piers We give thanks to the football
in order to build capacity in research. Blombery, Victorian Comprehensive community, media, Saints and Tigers,
Project grants have been directed at Cancer Centre) the committee, marketing and
utilizing existing research expertise Fundraising Highlights communication teams at both the
patient, Indyanna “signed” with the Flavorite co-founder Mark Millis
and technical capacity in order to 2017 - 2019: Prevention and treatment clubs and in particular, Quinn Snow &
ConverseXMaddie Partnership Boomers and the game was promoted battled a blood cancer and knows
build a critical mass of research of bone marrow failure in Fanconi Elliot Vanderland for being our heroes
with Indyanna as the youngest (and from personal experience how critical
activity in BMF. anaemia and other inherited disorders and supporting all of the important
In April 2016, Converse first partnered shortest) contracted player in WNBL medical research is to finding better
– part 2 (Dr Wayne Crismani, St messages about what we are trying
with Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision to launch history. From Geelong, Indyanna patient outcomes.
The Maddie’s Vision board has a Vincents Research Institute) to achieve.
an exclusive limited edition purple underwent a successful stem cell
robust and transparent annual granting
In 2018, we will continue to grant Maddie Chuck. Twenty dollars from each transplant (from a match with her
process managed and supported
funding to important research projects. sale was donated directly to Maddie’s sister) earlier in 2017 to treat her
by our Grants Committee. Through Left
We are also actively fundraising for a Vision. Last March, Converse continued Aplastic Anaemia.
this process, we have attracted Richmond led out by Jack Riewoldt at
applications from researchers of the Centre of Excellence in Bone Marrow the partnership – growing the offer to Maddie’s Match
include new children’s sizes. A number The day was a sea of purple and a great
highest standard and in the last two Biology (approx. $3 million needed) Above
of key people and celebrities supported success. The Boomers wore a special
years, selected the following cutting as well as establishment of a National WNBL Melbourne Boomber fans with player
this generous initiative and we are purple uniform and asked supporters Liz Cambage
edge research projects for funding: Biobank (approx. $800,000 needed).
pleased to announce that it reached to also wear purple and ‘Dunk A Fiver’
Both of these require long term funding
record sales, almost selling completely to donate $5 to Maddies Vision.
2015 – 2018: The Australian Aplastic commitments and are critical success
Anaemia Registry as a Means for factors to bringing all of our current through the range. Appreciation
Advancing Effective Treatment projects together. Flavorite – Maddie’s Month AK Willis Accounting
of Aplastic Anaemia (Transfusion
For all of this work to date, we are Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision announced Allen and Unwin
Outcomes Research Collaborative
indebted to our volunteer grants ‘Maddie’s Month’ and an annual ALI
(TORC). TORC is a consortium of
members of Monash University committee – Prof Suzanne Crowe, $100,000+ donation from leading Coles
Department of Epidemiology and Dr Rachel Conyers and Prof David glass-house tomato producer Converse
Preventive Medicine at The Alfred Haylock. Our committee have Melbourne Boomers – Purple Flavorite Tomatoes. The Deakin Melbourne Boomers
Hospital, along with members of the spent enormous hours, prioritising Power Day – WNBL Flavorite
Sales of Flavorite’s Cherry Burst
Red Cross Blood Service) their time to ensure they can meet, Fox Sports
Joe & Fiona Riewoldt join Melbourne Tomatoes and Vine Ripened Cherry
review, assess and advise our board’s
Boomers as official ambassadors. Tomatoes, sold exclusively through Mercedes-Benz Brighton
2016 - 2019: Prevention and treatment determination towards our vision.
of bone marrow failure in Fanconi Coles stores nationally, will fund a MoneyQuest Mortgages
We are very grateful for their ongoing
Joe and Fiona have become research project at the Peter MacCallum One Small Step Collective
anaemia and other inherited disorders commitment to make a difference to
passionate fans of the Boomers Cancer Centre. The research will focus Paul Marc Masons
– part 1 (Dr Wayne Crismani, St the lives of people impacted.”
women’s basketball team and were on genome editing of haematopoietic
Vincent’s Research Institute) Maddie’s Match R.B. Flinders
Prof. David Ritchie an important part of the team’s home stem and progenitor cells aimed at
game against Canberra on Saturday Richmond Football Club
2016 - 2018: Identification of miRNA Grants Committee Chair The Saints, Richmond and broader AFL uncovering novel therapeutics for
community once again came together November 18. Purple Power Day was Aplastic Anaemia and other Bone Rotary Brighton
biomarkers which play a functional
role in disease pathogenesis and to support Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision on held and Boomers supporters got their Marrow Failure Syndromes (BMFS). Saint Kilda Football Club
are predictive of inferior outcomes July 8 at Etihad Stadium. The previous purple on to help celebrate Maddie The project, led by Dr Yih-Chih Chan SBA Law
Above
in AA/MDS (Dr Lynette Chee, Royal two instalments of Maddie’s Match Riewoldt’s Vision. The showcase game and Professor Mark Dawson, continues
Rebecca Maddern, AFL Footy Show
Melbourne Hospital) have produced stunning scenes that attracted a crowd of several thousand Maddie’s Vision commitment to a For the full year in review
Below
Nick Riewoldt, Elliot Vanderland and Jack transformed the stadium into a sea of and a win for the Melbourne Boomers. greater understanding of, and cure for, 2017, visit mrv.org.au
Riewoldt, courtesy of Jason Edwards purple. This year witnessed a close- Nine-year-old, Bone Marrow Failure Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes.
30 Snowdome Foundation – Annual Review 2017 31You can also read
