SCIENTISTS researching serious diseases such as cancer are gaining a better understanding of what it is to experience these illnesses from those who have lived with them, thanks to a program involving local people.
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Bendigo man Frank Graham survived stomach cancer and has joined the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research’s consumer buddy program, which aims to aid better research outcomes.
Through this program, Mr Graham and his wife Ronnie were paired a few years ago with gastric cancer researcher Dr Lorraine O’Reilly, to give her insights into what it means to be personally affected by the disease.
Mr Graham said they met up several times a year to talk about his and his wife’s journey with cancer, from the lead-up to diagnosis through to recovery and beyond.
“It’s personal experience, not something out of a manual,” Mr Graham said.
He said ‘consumers’ such as himself were also important to researchers, as they could help summarise their applications for research grants into layperson language.
This was echoed by Dr O’Reilly, who told attendees at an information session in Bendigo last week that Mr and Mrs Graham’s input had been “invaluable” to her in her preparation of grant applications.
Dr O’Reilly said the couple also gave her a unique perspective on her work.
As well as contributing to research that could improve the lives of others with cancer, Mr Graham said he and his wife liked learning about Dr O’Reilly’s research and receiving updates on her work.
They had also enjoyed getting to know Dr O’Reilly and developing a personal relationship with her, he said.
The program covers not only cancer researchers and patients, but other serious diseases in the institute’s main fields of research, which include immune disorders and infectious diseases.
At last week’s information session, Mr and Mrs Graham were recognised for their contribution to the buddy program.
Mr Graham advocated for the session to be held in Bendigo, the first time the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute had held such an event in regional Victoria.
Dr O’Reilly told attendees at the event that the research had suggested the potential of developing an antibody to prevent inflammation and consequently tumour formation in the stomach.
She said a therapy that blocked signalling that prevented white blood cells from killing tumour cells was another possibility identified through her research.
Other scientists from the institute, working on cancer and diabetes research, also gave presentations on their work.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
