Each year over 1,600 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer. 

Acknowledging the need for more research into the deadly disease, Maroba Caring Communities started a fundraising campaign. 

Out of uniform days and staff BBQs were held and raffle tickets sold by staff and residents to raise money for the cause.

The result of their efforts, close to $3000. That figure was then matched by Maroba Caring Communities, bringing the total to $6000.  

“Unfortunately we recently had a staff member diagnosed with ovarian cancer and it really brought to our attention the need for more awareness and research into the disease,” Viv Allanson, CEO of Maroba Caring Communities said.  

“Our community is a generous one, and everyone donated what they could to try and make a difference to saving women’s lives.” 

The money was then gifted to the Hunter Medical Research Institute, where it will go towards the lifesaving work of Associate Professor Dr. Nikola Bowden. 

“Dr Nikola Bowden tests old chemotherapy drugs in new ways to treat ovarian cancer patients who are resistant to treatment. She is also developing a test that can be used to determine if an ovarian cancer patient has responded to chemotherapy, so we hope this donation will help in some way,” Viv said. 

Dr Nikola Bowden said the money will dramatically impact on her research. 

“The funds will cover the cost of testing a new combination of chemotherapy drugs on ovarian cancer cells in the lab,” she said. 

“Our entire ovarian cancer program is funded by donations from the community. Without this support we can’t do the research, it’s that simple.” 

IMAGE | Viv Allanson and Associate Professor Nikola Bowden with $6000 HMRI donation cheque. (Left to Right)