UNIVERSITY NEWS
New fundraising appeals support worthy causes
New fundraising appeals support worthy causes
This November, the Foundation Office is launching an appeal campaign to assist the Lymphoedema Research team raise much-needed funding, and to ensure that an increase number of deserving students are supported in 2014.
Equity Scholarships Appeal
Scholarships are vital to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve their potential in spite of barriers such as geographic isolation, a medical condition or financial hardship.
This appeal will highlight the story of two scholarship recipients – Tenneil Thulin and Steven Wright, who were able to attend University thanks to scholarship support.
“Without this support, I would’ve had to sacrifice my degree to cover living expenses,” Tenneil says. “The scholarship has allowed me to continue studying without this added pressure.”
Donations to this appeal will ensure that even more students are supported in 2014. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause, simply visit awc.alumni.mq.edu.au/equity2013.
Lymphoedema Research Appeal
Lymphoedema is a debilitating and irreversible condition that causes tissue swelling and fluid retention, and occurs when the lymphatic system is disrupted, often from cancer treatments.
The Macquarie University Cancer Institute is at the forefront of developing better lymphoedema treatments. One pioneering treatment option currently being researched involves surgically transferring unaffected lymph nodes into the affected area to help restore normal lymphatic function.
Helen Bonynge was the first patient to receive lymph node treatment for leg lymphoedema.
Diagnosed with uterine cancer 12 years ago, Helen underwent a radical hysterectomy, including the removal of 22 lymph nodes, followed by radiotherapy. She noticed signs of lymphoedema in her left leg shortly after.
Helen’s daily regime involves manual lymph drainage, exercises, wearing of compression stockings, and complex bandaging. One of the more difficult aspects of the condition has been recurring cellulitis; on one occasion the infection spread and she was diagnosed with pericarditis, an infection around the heart.
This development led Helen to investigate more effective treatments, and brought her to Macquarie University, who says that she was hopeful that the surgery would make a big difference to her life.
“Six months after surgery a tracer was injected between the toes,” she says. “This showed a much quicker uptake of lymph. Instead of 50 minutes to reach the groin, as was the case pre surgery, it took just 30 minutes to move through the lymphatic system.
“This is a very good sign for the future.”
Donations to this appeal will support this vital research and will give hope to those living with Lymphoedema. If you would like to support this vital research visit awc.alumni.mq.edu.au/lymph.