A significant fundraising initiative is underway in the Illawarra region to support the important work being conducted at the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Yerbury Lab. Led by Dr. Jeremy Lum, a researcher specializing in motor neurone disease (MND), the lab’s efforts have been bolstered by generous community donations that directly impact scientific discovery and research progression.
Dr. Lum’s journey at the Yerbury Lab began with a philanthropic gift that funded his early research. He recalls, “I was only meant to work in Justin’s lab for a short time. This donation allowed me to continue work for six months, which directly led to Justin receiving a $1 million FightMND grant.” The findings from this research were published earlier this year, enabling Dr. Lum to extend his work in the field for three additional years. His contributions have since helped him secure the Bill Gole Fellowship to establish his own research, further advancing the legacy of the late Professor Justin Yerbury, AM.
The drive to donate often stems from personal experiences. Families affected by MND, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases frequently turn their grief into action, determined to prevent others from enduring similar heartache. Their contributions sustain critical research efforts during challenging funding periods, providing essential support for emerging scientists and the tools necessary for progress.
The Yerbury Lab, located at UOW’s Molecular Horizons, serves as a testament to the power of community generosity. Donations support various aspects of research, including staff salaries and equipment purchases, from laboratory supplies to advanced technology. Professor Heath Ecroyd, a fellow researcher in neurodegenerative diseases at UOW, emphasizes the significance of these contributions: “Community donations have directly fuelled groundbreaking research in the Yerbury Lab. Over the past year, these funds have supported researchers working alongside Justin on ambitious projects aimed at developing targeted therapies and identifying new molecular pathways.”
Donnamaree Gasparrini, a long-time advocate for MND research, has dedicated over two decades to fundraising initiatives. Her efforts include organizing events such as raffles, craft stalls, and movie nights. “I wanted all the money I raised to go to Justin Yerbury’s research,” she explains. Gasparrini credits the support of local organizations, like Warilla Bowls and Shellharbour Rotary Club, for helping her achieve her fundraising goals.
Dr. Lum highlights the impact of recent donations that enabled the lab to acquire a high-powered computer capable of analysing microscope images significantly faster than standard systems. This technology has accelerated research results and facilitated early-stage experiments critical for successful grant applications. “We have also used donations to finance small preliminary experiments to support proof of concept results that are essential for grant applications,” Dr. Lum states. “Those small experiments helped us secure $1 million and $300,000 in grants from FightMND this year.”
The ongoing contributions have not only supported Dr. Lum’s work but also allowed Dr. Christen Chisholm to receive the Bill Gole MND Fellowship, an achievement she shares with Dr. Lum, Dr. Luke McAlary, and Professor Yerbury himself. Dr. Lum reflects on the far-reaching effects of community support: “It really shows how far a donation can go.”
As the Illawarra Mercury marks its 170th anniversary, it plays a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for the Yerbury Lab. Local advocates, including retired school teacher Peter McGovern and lawyer Graham Lancaster, have shared their personal experiences with MND to support this vital cause. This year also marks UOW’s 50th anniversary, making it a fitting time to honor the legacy of Associate Professor Justin Yerbury through continued research efforts.
The community’s passion and commitment to supporting the Yerbury Lab highlight the profound impact of collective action in advancing scientific research and improving lives affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Contributions, whether large or small, help maintain momentum in groundbreaking research that can ultimately change lives.
