Annual Report 2017-18 | Monash Health

A journey starts
with one small step
Seven years ago, three mums decided to make a difference and
raise funds to support vital research into cystic fibrosis (CF).
After significant planning and
organisation, Susan Biggar, Julie
Noorman and Kathy Ryan, (all CF
Mums) launched ‘65km for Cystic
Fibrosis’ (www.65kmforcf.com.au),
a 65km endurance walk to raise funds
for research. The event exceeded their
own expectations both in terms of
participation and fundraising.
As parents of children living with CF,
these extraordinary mums know the
value of research to improve the quality
It is truly
inspirational
to witness and
support such
dedicated
fundraisers.
Matthew Hannan,
Monash Health Foundation
of life for their children. This was the
driving factor and the motivation
to work tirelessly to raise money to
support research into CF.
Cystic fibrosis is a complicated disease,
it primarily effects the lungs and
digestive system and there is currently
no cure.
Monash Health provides lifetime care
for over 200 adults and children with
cystic fibrosis. Every year, an average
of eight newly diagnosed babies are
referred to Monash Health’s Cystic
Fibrosis clinic.
Funds raised from the 2017 event have
funded three research projects we
hope will have a lasting impact on the
lives of these consumers.
• Studying the impact of DNase
with early stage lung disease
to decrease inflammation and
infection. This project has the
potential to improve the long-term
outcome in children with CF
• Investigating the effect of an
innovative treatment to improve
sinus symptoms, quality of life,
and the amount of infections
for people living with CF and
sinus disease
• Develop the optimal, patient-centred
model of care for people with cystic
fibrosis Related Diabetes.
The small but amazing team continue
their unwavering commitment to the
cause, raising over $600k since 2013
and funding more than 10 research
projects.
The team has now been joined by Sue
Emery and Phil Ryan which has seen
the event grow in its participation rates
and success, remarkably raising over
$147,000 in 2018. The Committee will
work with health care professionals,
researchers, and the CF community
to determine priority projects for
consideration with funding from this
year’s event.
In 2016, the team was awarded the
Premier’s Volunteer of the Year, Dame
Elisabeth Murdoch Award for Teamwork,
for their inspiring contribution.
‘65km for Cystic Fibrosis’ Committee
members, from left, Julie Noorman,
Susan Biggar, Kathy Ryan and Sue Emery.
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