The Illawarra community is rallying to support the Yerbury Lab at the University of Wollongong (UOW), emphasizing the profound impact of donations on scientific research and discovery. A single donation can significantly alter a career path and contribute to advancements in understanding motor neurone disease (MND) and other neurodegenerative conditions.
Dr. Jeremy Lum, a researcher at UOW’s Yerbury Lab, is a testament to this truth. His journey in research began with a philanthropic contribution that funded his initial work. Under the guidance of the late Professor Justin Yerbury AM, Dr. Lum penned a thank-you letter to the donor, an act that has since shaped his career trajectory.
“I was only meant to work in Justin’s lab for a short time,” Dr. Lum recounted. “This donation allowed me to continue work for six months, which directly led to Justin receiving a $1 million FightMND grant. The findings from that SOD1 research were published earlier this year, enabling me to continue that work for three years.”
Dr. Lum’s efforts have established him as one of UOW’s prominent figures in MND research, continuing Professor Yerbury’s legacy of compassion and excellence in scientific inquiry.
Community Contributions Fuel Research Progress
For many donors, supporting medical research is a deeply personal mission. Families affected by MND, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other related diseases often transform their grief into proactive support, aiming to spare others the same heartache. Their contributions are crucial, especially during times when funding may be scarce.
The Yerbury Lab stands as a testament to this spirit of generosity. Contributions have facilitated the purchase of essential lab equipment, including computers and microscope slides, which are critical for ongoing research. The community’s commitment ranges from charity events to memorial donations, all aimed at furthering vital scientific work.
Professor Heath Ecroyd, a researcher in neurodegenerative diseases at UOW, emphasized the significance of community support. “Community donations have directly fueled groundbreaking research in the Yerbury Lab,” he stated. “Over the past year, these funds have supported researchers who worked alongside Justin on ambitious projects to develop targeted therapies, identify new molecular pathways, and accelerate tools that could one day enable earlier detection of MND.”
Dr. Lum noted that these donations also play a vital role in funding materials essential for experiments. He explained, “Put simply, they help us maintain momentum, and that momentum changes lives.”
A Personal Commitment to MND Research
Donnamaree Gasparrini, a resident of Illawarra, has dedicated over two decades to raising funds for MND research, a cause she describes as her “passion.” Since 2004, she has organized various fundraising activities, including raffles, craft stalls, and movie nights, all aimed at supporting research and advocacy for those affected by MND.
“I wanted all the money I raised to go to Justin Yerbury’s research,” Gasparrini shared. “I’ve been very fortunate to have a lot of people help with donations. If it wasn’t for the support of Warilla Bowls and Shellharbour Rotary Club, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
Dr. Lum highlighted how recent contributions have enhanced the lab’s capabilities. “We recently purchased a high-powered computer capable of analyzing microscope images much faster than standard systems, dramatically speeding up our research results,” he said.
The funds have also facilitated early-stage experiments that are crucial for obtaining larger grant approvals. “Those small experiments helped us secure $1 million and $300,000 in grants from FightMND this year,” Dr. Lum noted. “They also contributed to Dr. Christen Chisholm receiving the Bill Gole MND Fellowship, a remarkable achievement shared with three other members of the lab.”
Dr. Lum’s experiences underscore the vital role of community support in advancing scientific research. His message is clear: “It really shows how far a donation can go.”
As UOW celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Illawarra Mercury is proud to raise awareness and funds for the Yerbury Lab. Community members like retired school teacher Peter McGovern and lawyer Graham Lancaster have shared their personal experiences with MND to lend their voices to this important cause.
For more information on how to support the Yerbury Lab and contribute to ongoing research, visit the UOW website.
