Inspired by a big heart and brain, the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation was created in June 2013 in the memory of Robert ‘Connor’ Dawes who at just 18 years of age lost his 16-month battle with brain cancer.
The RCD Foundation works tirelessly to support brain matters projects in the areas of research, care and development – funding the science to end paediatric brain cancer and support patients in the meantime.
The foundation operates in Australia and the US, where brain cancer kills more children than any other disease. RCD funds crucial research projects to improve treatment options, support young patients with at home rehabilitation like music therapy, and inspire and fund the next generation of brain cancer practitioners and researchers through development initiatives.
Despite brain cancer killing more children than any other disease it remains critically underfunded. Few new effective treatments mean that 80% of children diagnosed with high grade tumours still lose their battle within 5 years. Survival rates have barely changed in 30 years and we think it’s time to change those odds.
Brain tumour research is on the verge of exciting breakthroughs. We want to enable researchers to further understand and better treat brain tumours, including earlier detection, surgery and post-surgery treatments (radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy).
Supporting young people with in-home rehabilitation therapies. Throughout his last year, Connor had weekly music and yoga therapy on top of his standard rehabilitation. These therapies are emotionally invaluable and provide comfort to both the patient and the family.
Inspiring the next generation of brain cancer practitioners and researchers. Through awareness programs, PhD Scholarships and youth engagement activities, we're putting brain matters on the map.
By signing this five year agreement we are pledging to invest in the future of critical projects that are an integral part of brain cancer research and ultimately part of the cure.
Learn more about the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation.
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