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1 September 2010
Children are still coming into this world with the disadvantages of Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, congenital blindness and other genetically inherited diseases and disabilities.
Basic research is at the cutting edge of unravelling the complexities of human biology – and the mystery of why things sometimes go wrong.
The scientists at Children's Medical Research Institute can’t do it alone; they have the dedication and expertise, but they need support - the support of Australians who share their vision of a healthier world for all children.
Visit our secure online donation page to make a donation now.
Most of us want to feel that our life is meaningful
Medical researchers are in the very fortunate position of working at something they really enjoy doing, and knowing that it has enduring benefits. And the community at large can be a major part of this.
Over the past 52 years, scientists at Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) have been investigating diseases that rob children of a healthy and happy childhood. Their many successes are the result of community support, and are a tribute to the many Australian individuals and families who make an enduring commitment to medical research.
In the early years, research by CMRI scientists led to the improved survival of premature babies, improved vaccination programs for rubella, and the pioneering of microsurgical techniques for stitching together tiny nerves and arteries.
More recently, scientists at CMRI have made world-leading advances in the understanding of embryo development and birth defects. They have uncovered the basic biology of nerve cell communication, which will one day deliver new treatments for conditions such as epilepsy. They have discovered a basic mechanism of cancer, and recently developed a new blood test that may allow early diagnosis, more precise treatment choices, and detection of recurrences. They are making outstanding progress towards gene therapies for newborn babies with inherited liver conditions.
The institute receives about one-third of its funding from competitive grants. CMRI has an enviable success rate that indicates its scientists are amongst the country’s leading researchers. But the term of a grant is far shorter than the time required to make the advances that will lead to improved treatments and possibly even cures for childhood diseases.
Two-thirds of CMRI’s income is derived entirely from community support—either directly from donations, or indirectly from interest earned on donations that have been invested. This income underpins CMRI’s visionary research programs.
Medical research is costly, but the rewards are meaningful beyond measure. Your gift to CMRI will help ensure the health of children for generations to come.
Visit our secure online donation page to support CMRI now.
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