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GI Cancer Institute

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25.01.2022 Could a common cholesterol medication help improve outcomes for people with rectal cancer? Thats what the SPAR trial is looking to find out. Building on research that indicates statins, taken for cholesterol, can lead to better responses to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in rectal cancer patients, the SPAR trial has just reached 25% patient enrolment. Associate Professor Michael Jameson, Study Chair of SPAR, says, A positive outcome in the SPAR trial would lead to a phase II...I trial to confirm these findings and look at long-term outcomes. This could change the worldwide standard treatment for rectal cancer. The SPAR trial is open at 15 sites across Australia and New Zealand. Learn more about SPAR: gicancer.org.au/clinical-trial/spar/ Watch Associate Professor Jameson explain the trial below.

25.01.2022 WHAT WE ARE MISSING: COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on our ability to fundraise for the #InnovationFund grant which supports new ideas that give us critical insights into GI cancer treatments. With many of our #GutsyChallenge events cancelled or postponed this year, we are in need of funding to help get these ideas off the ground. ... To raise vital funds for the Innovation Fund grant in 2018, Nicole Shore took part in the Tasmania Overland Gusty Challenge, and we reflect on her adventure below. To find out more about how you can support the Innovation Fund grant while doing your own unique challenge visit: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/

25.01.2022 Dr David Lau was awarded the inaugural Merck-AGITG Clinical Research Fellowship in GI cancer, securing a two-year position at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. As his Fellowship draws to a close, we caught up with David to hear what his experience has been like: This Fellowship has taught me a lot of things. Certainly, its taught me that there are a lot of different ways of treating diseases, and treating patients. Ive been very privileged to be a part of it.

24.01.2022 Without dedicated researchers, our clinical trials to find new treatments for people with GI cancer just wouldnt happen. One such researcher is Professor Niall Tebbutt. At our Annual Scientific Meeting last week, Professor Tebbutt was awarded the prestigious John Zalcberg OAM Award for Excellence in Research. For nearly twenty years, Professor Tebbutt has volunteered his time to the GI Cancer Institute to help advance GI cancer research and find new treatments for his patien...ts. He has been Chief Investigator of seven AGITG-led clinical trials, volunteered his expertise on 10 Trial Management Committees, and has co-authored 41 peer-reviewed AGITG publications and 85 presentations on the treatment of GI cancer. Professor Tebbutt has also swapped his clinic rooms for his hiking boots and taken on two of our incredible fundraising Gutsy Challenges - Tanzanias Mt Kilimanjaro in 2015 and Argentinas Mt Aconcagua in 2017. He led both fundraising teams, and has raised over $100,000! Especially now as a clinician in Melbourne treating patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Tebbutts dedication to his patients is to be celebrated. We cant thank him enough for all his hard work to improve outcomes for people with GI cancer. Learn more about Professor Tebbutt: https://gicancer.org.au//professor-niall-tebbutt-recognis/

23.01.2022 As the days get warmer, smoothies are the perfect light, convenient option for breakfast or lunch. This smoothie recipe has been developed by accredited dietitian Katie Benton, to provide the perfect mix of antioxidants, protein and B vitamins for a gut-friendly, long-lasting energy boost. Smoothies are also a good option for anyone who requires a liquid diet during some treatments for cancer. Try the recipe: https://gicancer.org.au/recipe/summer-smoothie-delight/

23.01.2022 Using blood tests to detect the presence of tumour DNA in the bloodstream could give researchers and patients a valuable tool in the race to detect pancreatic cancer early. This month is #PancreaticCancerAwarenessMonth. Currently, pancreatic cancer claims 9 out of every 10 lives it affects. A major factor of this is that detecting the presence of pancreatic cancer is so difficult. In the DYNAMIC-Pancreas study, Dr Belinda Lee and her team are studying whether ‘liquid biopsi...es’, blood tests that determine the presence or absence of tumour DNA in the bloodstream after surgical removal of pancreatic cancer, can predict the risk of it recurring. Learn more about this trial: gicancer.org.au/clinical-trial/dynamic-pancreas/

23.01.2022 This Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month, take the time to learn the symptoms of this deadly disease. Oesophageal cancer symptoms may include: - Difficulty or pain while swallowing - Episodes of choking on food... - Unexplainable weight loss - Unexplainable fatigue - Development of upper abdominal discomfort especially while eating - New or worsening heartburn or acid reflux Read more on our website about symptoms and risk factors: https://gicancer.org.au/news/oesophageal-cancer-symptoms/

23.01.2022 Its a wrap! Our first ever virtual Annual Scientific Meeting was a huge success. A few key highlights from the day included fascinating presentations from international speakers Professor Kohei Shitara (Japan) and Dr Naureen Starling (United Kingdom), as well as updates on our trials across GI cancers. There were also new concepts presented by our researchers, sharing fresh ideas to better treat people with GI cancer. Despite all of the challenges presented by 2020, there ...has been great progress in our clinical trials this year. There was an incredible spirit of collaboration at the meeting between the more than 400 researchers from across Australia and New Zealand, with a common goal of helping people with GI cancers. To learn more about our trials, go to https://gicancer.org.au/community-clinical-trials/

22.01.2022 Did you miss our free webinar on Unlocking the mysteries of Rare Cancers last Friday? Watch Professor David Goldstein, conjoint clinical professor at the Prince of Wales Clinical School UNSW, and Mr Richard Vines, Chief Executive at Rare Cancers Australia, speak about the large impact that rare cancers have and the innovative new projects that could make breakthroughs for patients. The webinar contains a wealth of information, thanks to the expertise of these fantastic speakers. Watch the recording here: https://gicancer.org.au/access-the-webinar-unlocking-the-m/

22.01.2022 The recent death of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman from bowel cancer at just 43 years of age has shed light on the troubling rise of this disease in younger people. The incidence of bowel cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer, has increased by up to nine per cent in people under 50 from the 1990s until now. Being aware of the symptoms and risk factors of bowel cancer is important no matter what your age. Find out exactly what you need to know about screening f...or bowel cancer and reducing your risk: https://www.sbs.com.au//here-s-what-under-50s-need-to-know See more

21.01.2022 Want to know more about GI cancer? Sign up for our quarterly newsletter, The Digest, for updates on research, fundraising and new treatments for GI cancer. When you sign up, you’ll receive our latest edition, featuring an interview with oncologist Associate Professor Lara Lipton on treating cancer during COVID-19, links to access our latest webinar on rare cancers, and a GI-friendly recipe developed by an accredited dietitian. Sign up: gicancer.org.au/newsletter-sign-up/

21.01.2022 Geoff Parnell discovered he had oesophageal cancer almost by accident. Five years ago, after turning 60, he reviewed his insurance, and asked his doctor to test him for every medical condition she could think of. Every test showed that he was fit and healthy until the very last, an endoscopy. I think early detection of oesophageal cancer is really key, and awareness in the community around the issues about that, he says. ... #OesophagealCancerAwarenessMonth Read Geoff's story: gicancer.org.au//geoff-parnell-on-oesophageal-cancer-and-/

21.01.2022 Only 2 days until the 2020 Annual Scientific Meeting! We are very excited to be hosting Professor Kohei Shitara from Japan as part of the Invited Faculty. Read about his main research interests here: https://asm.gicancer.org.au/invited-faculty/

21.01.2022 In January 2021 Lisa Meyvogel will be tying the knot with her fianc of 2 years, Nick! But it has been a long and difficult journey in the lead up to this day. In 2019 Lisa was diagnosed with bile duct cancer at the age of 38. She suffered from extreme fatigue and nausea from the radiation but thanks to her amazing support network she was able to pull through. I have become a stronger person who appreciates all life has to offer. My boys are growing up and Im healthy and ...able to do all the things any other mum can do. My fianc and I are now planning our wedding for January 2021. I dont let time slip by anymore. NOW is whats important in life. You can read more about Lisas story here: https://gicancer.org.au/story/a-life-worth-living We wish Lisa and Nick all the happiness in the world for their big day!

21.01.2022 Another great life lost to GI cancer. We mourn the loss of Black Panther star #chadwickboseman who passed away on Friday from colon cancer. He was 43 years old. Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer four years ago and has battled it ever since, until it sadly progressed to stage IV. You can read more about his story here: https://www.abc.net.au//chadwick-boseman,-black-p/12609278 Colorectal cancer also known as large bowel cancer, is when malignant cancer cell...s grow in the wall of the large bowel. This includes the large intestine, and rectum, which are all part of the lower digestive tract. Australia has a National Bowel Cancer Screening Program that provides free bowel cancer tests for individuals aged over 50. To find out more about colorectal cancer visit: https://gicancer.org.au/cancer/colorectal-cancer/

20.01.2022 The Rockhampton community has given the incredible Dr Matt Burge some well-deserved recognition in The Morning Bulletin! This year Dr Burge has raised over $47,000 for GI cancer research as part of the Gutsy Challenge - a phenomenal effort especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

18.01.2022 Congratulations to Dr Fiona Paxton-Hall, an early-career medical oncologist at Mater Hospital Brisbane who has received the Merck-AGITG Clinical Research Fellowship in gastro-intestinal (GI) Cancer for 2021-22. Dr Paxton-Hall will be heading to London next year to begin her Fellowship at the busiest GI cancer clinic in the UK, the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. Many thanks to Merck for their generous support of this unique opportunity. Dr Paxton-Hall always knew that she ...would have a career in medicine but her interest in gastro-intestinal oncology was sparked during her residency. One thing Ive learned during my training is that in the last ten years or so, compared with the other tumour types that have had success with ground-breaking treatments, there hasnt really been the same development in terms of survival for patients with GI cancer. Watch our interview with Dr Paxton-Hall below.

18.01.2022 Our Consumer Advisory Panel plays an integral role in developing our research. The Panel is made up of a passionate group of GI cancer survivors and carers who volunteer their time to advise on our research, providing valuable insight as people who have faced cancer. We are thrilled to welcome to new members to the Panel this year: Oesophageal cancer survivor Geoff Parnell, and Milton Kirkwood, who cared for his wife Frances before she passed away from pancreatic cancer. We ...spoke to Geoff and Milton about their experiences of cancer and why they chose to join the CAP. Read the interview: gicancer.org.au//the-consumer-advisory-panel-welcomes-two/

18.01.2022 When you have pancreatic cancer, food stops being an ordinary pleasure. You feel sick when you eat and food can go straight through you. This can lead to malnourishment, which severely affects your ability to tolerate treatment. It’s a major reason why many pancreatic cancer patients have to stop treatment early. RANDOMS is a nutritional substudy of the MASTERPLAN clinical trial which is addressing this issue. It will discover critical information on how to measure the impact... of nutrition on survival outcomes for patients. It will examine whether a fast and simple nutritional test called PGSGA can match the results provided by a complex and expensive CT body composition scan for pancreatic cancer patients. Nutrition is such an important part of the experience of people who have cancer. It doesn’t just have an effect on treatment, but on their day-to-day life and their ability to function normally and enjoy life, says Clinical Dietitian Belinda Steer, who is leading RANDOMS. Belinda will discuss this study and the impact of nutrition for pancreatic and stomach cancer patients at our webinar on Friday 27 November. Learn more and register here: https://us02web.zoom.us//1916014/WN_zA7XkMerSqmoEuid6mz16Q

18.01.2022 Three years ago, Alison Winkelmeier strapped on her walking shoes to trek the Larapinta Trail in NT on a #GutsyChallenge adventure. Two years later she decided to strap on the same shoes and travel further afield onto the WA #CapetoCape Gutsy Challenge. Thanks to Alison and so many other incredible Gutsy participants, fundraising from our Gutsy Challenges has helped fund clinical trials for advanced colorectal cancer, renal cancer, advanced bowel cancer in the elderly and g...astric cancer. Due to COVID-19, our Gutsy Challenge treks have been postponed for 2020, and we need urgent help to ensure critical, early stage research can continue. Watch Alison reflect on her Cape to Cape Gutsy Challenge below. Help us to keep innovative research alive, visit: https://gicancer.org.au/donate-to-the-innovation-fund/.

18.01.2022 Announcing our next webinar: Unlocking the Mysteries of Nutrition, Treatment and Clinical Trials Spotlight on Pancreatic and Stomach Cancers Pancreatic cancer and Stomach cancer are often called the silent killers. They are difficult to detect and survival rates are tragically low. But more than 6,000 Australians will be diagnosed with one of these diseases this year. In recognition of pancreatic and stomach cancer awareness months, both in November, our guest speakers Medi...cal Oncologist Associate Professor Nick Pavlakis and Clinical Dietitian Belinda Steer, will discuss all facets of managing these cancers from study design challenges through to the importance of nutrition during and after treatment. The webinar is free to attend and will take place on Friday 27 November from 11:30am-12:15pm (AEDT). Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us//2516014/WN_zA7XkMerSqmoEuid6mz16Q Purple Our World Pancare Foundation Avner Pancreatic Cancer Foundation Garvan Institute of Medical Research

17.01.2022 We need your help this Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. These cancers are silent killers. Stomach cancer claims 2 out of every 3 lives it affects, and pancreatic cancer claims 9 out of 10. We’re standing up for patients, survivors and families, and fighting for trials that focus on better treatments. We need to keep pushing the frontiers of science and knowledge, but we can’t do this without funding for research. Make a gift to vital research this November and give hope to the thousands of Australians affected by stomach and pancreatic cancer every year. 100% of your gift will go towards research and clinical trials that are changing the odds.

17.01.2022 After his son Alex passed away from bowel cancer in 2018, John Paduano has carried on his legacy through incredible fundraising efforts. As well as raising almost $20,000 for GI cancer research, John has chosen to carry on Alexs jam making business, and donate a portion of the profits to the GI Cancer Institute to benefit patients in the future. The Jam Bandits jams are made using all Australian ingredients with no additives! If youre interested in getting hold of some just in time for Spring, visit their website: http://www.thejambandits.com.au/ We are so grateful to John and The Jam Bandits for their support.

17.01.2022 Our webinar is on this Friday! You can still register for free and hear our expert guest speakers medical oncologist Professor David Goldstein and Rare Cancers Australia Chief Executive Richard Vines demystify rare cancers and talk about how to develop research in an area that is critically underfunded. Register now: Unlocking the mysteries of Rare Cancers: Friday 18 September at 11:30am AEST. https://us02web.zoom.us//6515966/WN_0WGhBtieQP6merQLghlRNA

17.01.2022 Our Annual Scientific Meeting on 28 August would not have been possible without the support of our Platinum Sponsor, Servier. As Platinum Sponsor, Servier supported the Opening and Closing Keynote presentations by Professor Kohei Shitara (Japan) and Doctor Naureen Starling (United Kingdom). Professor Shitaras Opening Keynote on gastric cancer emphasised the importance of recognising that not all gastric cancers are the same, and the need for new strategies to find new agents... to treat this cancer. In the Closing Keynote, Doctor Starling outlined key emerging areas of colorectal cancer research. She noted that there is an impetus to develop treatments with minimal toxicity for people with colorectal cancer. Servier also supported the New Concepts Symposium where exciting new research concepts were presented and developed. Thank you Servier for facilitating these insightful sessions.

16.01.2022 Congratulations to Michaela for completing her half marathon in Bendigo last Sunday! Thanks to her amazing efforts she has raised $6,500 in support of bile duct cancer research. We are truly grateful to Michaela and Bendigo Osteopathic Clinic for their incredible support.

15.01.2022 This week is #IncludeACharityWeek, when Australians are encouraged to leave a charitable gift in their Will. Whether large or small, these gifts can make a real difference to ensure the charitys work and your legacy lives on. At the GI Cancer Institute, gifts like this enable us to conduct cutting-edge research into new treatments to benefit GI cancer patients and their families beyond your lifetime, just like the one from Ruth and Lance. Ruth Henwood sadly lost her husband... Lance to oesophageal cancer in 2013. Lances illness was not recognised as oesophageal cancer until he had been unwell for around six months, as is the case for many people. As Lances cancer progressed, they moved their wedding forward and were married in the palliative care ward of Westmead Hospital. Lance passed away two days later. Ruths decision to include a Bequest to the GI Cancer Institute for oesophageal cancer research in her Will is motivated by a desire to help others in the future, one which she and Lance shared. When friends of Lance asked what they could donate to, he said research, so no other bastard has to go through this, remembers Ruth. Im hoping that there can be some progress, and hopefully one day, no one will have to go through what Lance and I did. Find out more: https://gicancer.org.au/donate/a-gift-in-your-will/

15.01.2022 During these difficult times COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on our #GutsyChallenge event fundraising for one of the most important initiatives we support the #InnovationFund grant. It is thanks to past support from people in the community like Clare Kuzimski that we have been able to fund this grant which allows our researchers to conduct ground-breaking research into new areas of GI cancer. In 2018, Clare lost her beloved father to oesophageal cancer. To honour his ...memory and to raise vital funds for research, Clare took part in the 2019 #WARunForAReason challenge! The more people that know about the GI Cancer Institute, the greater the impact, says Clare. You can read Clares full story below. https://gicancer.org.au/story/clare-kuzimski/ You can also help us keep the Innovation Fund grant alive this year and take on a personal run challenge. Choose how long you want to run, choose your route and finally, ask for donations to fund innovative research into GI cancer treatments! Get started here: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/

15.01.2022 At the height of COVID-19 in Melbourne, Associate Professor Lara Lipton has been treating cancer patients during the lockdown. We spoke to her about life as a medical oncologist during COVID-19, what has changed about cancer treatment, and what has stayed the same. Read the full interview: https://gicancer.org.au//life-as-a-medical-oncologist-dur/

14.01.2022 Vale Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died of complications of pancreatic cancer. The second woman to serve on the US Supreme Court and a pioneering advocate for womens rights, who in her ninth decade became a much younger generations unlikely cultural icon. https://www.nytimes.com//18/us/ruth-bader-ginsburg-dead.ht

14.01.2022 Our #GutsyChallenge fundraising treks for 2020 have sadly been postponed due to COVID-19. This means that funding for critical research is needed now more than ever! Watch the video below of Alice and Brian, who completed the Tasmania Overland Gutsy Challenge in 2018 to honour their friend who passed away from #PancreaticCancer. ... Their efforts have helped to support the #InnovationFund grant, and you can too! Take part in an individual Gutsy Challenge at home or in your suburb! Your support will continue to fund research that provides greater treatment options for the 28,600 Australians diagnosed with GI cancer each year. Get started here: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/

14.01.2022 It was great to see a new liver cancer treatment added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) earlier this week during Liver Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer of the liver, also called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is currently less common in Australia, but the incidence is increasing. According to medical oncologist Associate Professor Lara Lipton, It’s about the third or fourth most common cancer worldwide but in Australia it is increasing.... However, research finding new treatments is also ramping up. In the last in the recent couple of decades, hepatocellular carcinoma trials have really been ramped up and after a long period of having maybe one or two agents to treat inoperable HCC, we now have a number of options. That’s been a really positive sign, says Associate Professor Lipton. A new treatment becoming accessible through the PBS means that people have more options when facing a liver cancer diagnosis. Read more about the new treatment added to the PBS here: http://www.health.gov.au/.../budget-to-deliver-better... Learn more about liver cancer and how to spot the symptoms: gicancer.org.au/cancer/liver-cancer/

13.01.2022 What do the Larapinta and the Tasmania Overland trek have in common? Not only were they two previous #GutsyChallenge treks, they were also both tackled by Gutsy team member, Catherine Trevaskis, all to raise vital funds for GI cancer research. Due to COVID-19, the 2020 #GutsyChallenge treks have been postponed and we are MISSING OUT on urgent funding needed to support GI cancer clinical trials research. ... With 28,600 Australians diagnosed with GI cancer each year, your support can help our medical professionals find safer and better treatment options. There are two ways YOU can help GI cancer patients. Make a one-off donation to help provide the funding we are missing out on: https://gicancer.org.au/donate-to-the-innovation-fund/ Or, create your own Gutsy Challenge event. Find out how here: http://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/ You can watch Catherine reflect on the importance of the treks and how her efforts worked to support clinical trials research.

13.01.2022 Tonya and her husband Richard were high school sweethearts who made a life together in Geelong. However, when Richard was only 35, he was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer after choking on food at a barbecue. He sadly passed away just six months later. This #StomachCancerAwarenessMonth, we spoke to Tonya about her experience, her journey to raise awareness of stomach cancer, and dealing with the grief it causes. ... Read the full interview: https://gicancer.org.au//stomach-cancer-awareness-tonya-a/

12.01.2022 Our first ever virtual Annual Scientific Meeting is now live! More than 400 GI cancer specialists will be joining us online today to discuss current trials, present new ideas and collaborate on future research. Meetings like the one today are so important to help progress GI cancer research in Australia, and our annual meeting is the only one of its kind that covers all 10 Gastro-Intestinal cancers. Were so grateful that despite COVID-19, we can still hold the meeting online this year and continue to develop better treatments for people with GI cancer.

12.01.2022 With our #GutsyChallenge events cancelled or postponed this year, we miss hearing your stories and seeing your amazing fundraising efforts. So we caught up with Liz Ryan who took on the 2015 #MtKilimanjaro #GutsyChallenge and climbed Africa’s highest mountain to raise money for GI cancer research. Watch below as Liz reflects on her #GutsyChallenge and talks about why funding GI cancer research is so important to her.... Feeling inspired by Liz’s story? We can help you create your own COVID-safe Gutsy Challenge fundraising event so you can support vital research for people with GI cancer too: fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/

11.01.2022 Our Annual Scientific Meeting is an opportunity for GI cancer specialists to collaborate on new research ideas in the midst of a year that has been incredibly challenging. Over the last few months, we have been blown away by the messages of thanks we have received from you for our GI cancer health professionals and their tireless work during COVID-19. Here are just a few of them.

11.01.2022 Good luck to all our #City2Surf runners this weekend in both Sydney and Darwin! A special thanks to Meredith Hudson taking on the Virtual City2Surf on Sunday and Marion Schultz and her team of 28 - all running to raise funds for vital Gastro-Intestinal (GI) cancer research. We are so grateful for the support of all our runners and donors, including NT Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison : Member for Wanguri, who will be running in Team Marion! ... So far we have raised a whopping $5,700 which will provide better treatment options for the 28,600 Australian's diagnosed with GI cancer each year.

11.01.2022 Our webinar is on this Friday: ‘Unlocking the mysteries of nutrition, treatment and clinical trials: Spotlight on Pancreatic and Stomach Cancer, the silent killers’. Join Clinical Dietitian Belinda Steer, Medical Oncologist Associate Professor Nick Pavlakis and our facilitator Daniel Goulburn OAM from Purple Our World, as they discuss all facets of managing these cancers, as part of Stomach Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. The webinar being held at 11:30am AEDT on Friday 27 November and is free to attend. Learn more and register: https://us02web.zoom.us//1916014/WN_zA7XkMerSqmoEuid6mz16Q

11.01.2022 The NABNEC clinical trial compares two types of chemotherapy to determine how successful they are at improving disease response rates for people with neuroendocrine tumours. This milestone is significant for the trial, particularly because clinical trials for rare diseases often take longer to reach enrolment targets. While neuroendocrine tumours are considered a rare cancer, incidence has increased in Australia over the past few decades and they are now considered the second most common gastro-intestinal tumour after colorectal cancer. The five-year survival rate is 46% however this can vary greatly depending on the tumours location. https://gicancer.org.au/clinical-trial/nabnec/

10.01.2022 It's a wrap! Our first ever virtual Annual Scientific Meeting was a huge success. A few key highlights from the day included fascinating presentations from international speakers Professor Kohei Shitara (Japan) and Dr Naureen Starling (United Kingdom), as well as updates on our trials across GI cancers. There were also new concepts presented by our researchers, sharing fresh ideas to better treat people with GI cancer. Despite all of the challenges presented by 2020, there ...has been great progress in our clinical trials this year. There was an incredible spirit of collaboration at the meeting between the more than 400 researchers from across Australia and New Zealand, with a common goal of helping people with GI cancers. To learn more about our trials, go to https://gicancer.org.au/community-clinical-trials/

09.01.2022 Have you got something to lose? Take on a #GutsyChallenge and shave your head, chop your locks or do away with your beard just like Miles! In 2018 Miles lost a close friend to #GICancer. He was determined to do something to raise funds in support of her cancer battle. So he started his hair journey and took on a head shave to raise funds for new GI cancer treatments. With the publics help, more clinical trials can be undertaken to provide more hope to those Australians d...iagnosed with Gastro-Intestinal cancers each year, and their families, says Miles. You can read more about Miles hair journey here: https://gicancer.org.au//making-the-cut-miles-gray-honour/ To find out how you can start your own hair journey fundraiser visit: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au//HeadShave Photo credit: Miles Gray

08.01.2022 One of the most exciting parts of our Annual Scientific Meeting is the New Concepts Symposium, where researchers pitch and discuss new trial concepts. This year’s winning concept, from Associate Professor Jeanne Tie, is RESOLUTE a study aiming to integrate ablative therapy, a radiation treatment, into standard treatment for advanced colorectal cancer. What’s great about this concept is that it could be run as part of a teletrials program, giving people in regional areas acc...ess to treatment that is usually only available to people near larger treatment centres. It was great to see that everyone agrees this is an area of need and that we need to get more evidence, says Associate Professor Jeanne Tie. Learn more about RESOLUTE and how this innovative new research is being developed: https://gicancer.org.au//associate-professor-jeanne-tie-o/

08.01.2022 We are grateful to AstraZeneca for their generous sponsorship supporting our Annual Scientific Meeting on 28 August. As Gold level Sponsor, AstraZeneca supported the Awards session, where awards were presented to researchers for their exceptional contributions to GI cancer research. These included: Professor Niall Tebbutt, who received the John Zalcberg OAM Award for his dedication to the AGITG over almost 20 years Associate Professor Jeanne Tie, who received the Best New... Concept Award for her idea to investigate the role ablative therapy could play in colorectal cancer Doctor Matthew Burge, who received the Member Fundraiser of the Year Award after raising over $47,000 for GI cancer research this year through the Gutsy Challenge Monash Health, who received the Outstanding Site Award for their enthusiasm for and commitment to conducting clinical trials in GI cancer; and Doctor Oliver Piercey, who received the Best Poster Awards for a poster on the role of chemotherapy after surgery for elderly patients with colorectal cancer. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to recognise the hard work and innovative ideas of AGITG members, and we are so grateful to AstraZeneca for supporting the meeting.

08.01.2022 In 2014 Ruth Nissim sadly lost her elder sister Rochelle to #PancreaticCancer. To honour Rochelles memory, Ruth took part in the 2018 Tasmania Overland #GutsyChallenge. After Rochelle's passing, Ruths family established Purple Our World to raise awareness for Pancreatic Cancer, and the GI Cancer Institute has partnered with them ever since. ... With COVID-19 putting a stop to our Gutsy Challenges, we are not just missing out on your amazing fundraising efforts, we are also missing your stories. Stories about people doing extraordinary things in memory of their loved ones, and dedicating themselves to raise awareness stories like Ruths. We need YOU to take part in an Individual Gutsy Challenge challenge yourself to a run or long walk, shave your head or host a virtual dinner party. Help us to share your amazing stories while raising vital funds for GI cancer research. Click here to find out how to get started: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/ Watch our interview with Ruth as she reflects on the significance of her Gutsy fundraiser.

08.01.2022 In December 2018 Michaelas mother Joy sadly passed away from Cholangiocarcinoma - a rare and aggressive form of bile duct cancer. Not long after that her grandmother Wilma was also diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma and passed away in June 2020. To honour their memories and in support of Bile Duct cancer research, Michaela will be running a full marathon in Bendigo this Sunday!... Our family are so grateful for the help and support that the GI Cancer Institute has provided our mother, grandmother and family over the past few years, and I would like to raise much needed funds and awareness for such a silent killer." You can read her full story here: https://gicancer.org.au/story/running-42km-in-bendigo/ We wish Michaela the best of luck!

08.01.2022 Associate Professor Nick Pavlakis is a medical oncologist at Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital, and has led several clinical trials finding better treatments for GI cancer. It’s a widely held belief that clinical trials provide better care because of the scrutiny that we provide over the patient’s journey. There’s often a dedicated nurse attached to the patient, and even the patients getting standard therapies seem to do better than they would have otherwise done, says As...sociate Professor Pavlakis. In this video, he explains how to find out about clinical trials that could be relevant to you. View our open clinical trials: gicancer.org.au/clinical-trial/status/open/

08.01.2022 This World Health Day we're joining communities around the world to support building a fairer, healthier world for everyone. Survival rates for many cancers in Australia are among the highest in the world, but there are still issues of inequality that persist. First Nations people and those living in the most disadvantaged areas report higher cancer incidence and lower survival than other Australians. This needs to change. We're committed to making cancer trials more accessible and equal, by providing clinical trials through the public health system and expanding access to patients in regional areas through tele-trials. With your support, we can create a healthier tomorrow.

07.01.2022 For #FathersDay, we want to honour all the dads who have been affected by #GICancer. Add this frame to your profile picture to celebrate the Dad or Dads in your life! Click on the link below www.facebook.com/profilepicframes/?selected_overlay_id=345263500190037 ... If you are using the Facebook app: Click on your profile picture and select update. Then select add frame.

07.01.2022 Often people think that funding for cancer research is spread evenly across all cancer types, but this isn’t the case. Funding for some cancers, such as breast and prostate cancers, has been far greater than that for gastro-intestinal cancers even though GI cancers combined are more common. Watch Dr Lorraine Chantrill, Chair of the GI Cancer Institute (FB)/ AGITG (LinkedIn) speak about the challenges we face conducting GI cancer research:

07.01.2022 Every day in 2020, it is estimated that 11 Australians are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and there are 8 deaths from this horrible disease. Dr Lorraine Chantrill has dedicated her career to changing these odds and giving hope to people diagnosed with this cancer. The outcomes for people with pancreas cancer are poor, but we are seeing change and there is hope for people with pancreas cancer, she says. ... This #PancreaticCancerAwarenessMonth, watch Dr Chantrill discuss this disease and why developing better treatments is vital:

07.01.2022 In January 2021 Lisa Meyvogel will be tying the knot with her fiancé of 2 years, Nick! But it has been a long and difficult journey in the lead up to this day. In 2019 Lisa was diagnosed with bile duct cancer at the age of 38. She suffered from extreme fatigue and nausea from the radiation but thanks to her amazing support network she was able to pull through. I have become a stronger person who appreciates all life has to offer. My boys are growing up and I'm healthy and ...able to do all the things any other mum can do. My fiancé and I are now planning our wedding for January 2021. I don't let time slip by anymore. NOW is what's important in life. You can read more about Lisas story here: https://gicancer.org.au/story/a-life-worth-living We wish Lisa and Nick all the happiness in the world for their big day!

06.01.2022 Tighten your laces and get ready to join us on a Virtual #GutsyChallenge Run! The #BlackmoresSydneyRunningFestival and #City2Surf are now virtual runs which can be done in any place, in your own time! Better yet - there is an option for everyone! Choose from 3.5km, 10km, 14km or work all the way up to a full 42km marathon! ... Not a runner? Not to worry! You can choose to walk, stroll or even skip your way to the end. All funds raised from your run will help us find better treatment options for the 28,000 people living with GI cancer each year. Your support can help us save lives! Get started OR find out more: http://GutsyVirtualRuns.gofundraise.com.au

06.01.2022 With the support of his patients and their families, Medical Oncologist Dr Matthew Burge has raised over $47,000 this year for clinical trials to find better treatments for GI cancer! This phenomenal achievement was acknowledged last week when he received the Fundraiser of the Year Award at our Annual Scientific Meeting. Taking on my first Gutsy Challenge in 2017 was life changing and one of the best things Ive ever done, says Dr Burge. Im very humbled and very thankful... to my patients and their families that have supported me. It is because of them that my achievements have been recognised by this award. I will keep pushing forward and fundraising into the future as much as I can, and Im looking forward to the next Gutsy Challenge when COVID finally settles down. A huge thank you to Dr Burge, and to his patients and their families, for helping to raise such an incredible amount for GI cancer research. We are so grateful for your support. Read more about Dr Burge: https://gicancer.org.au//patients-families-support-dr-mat/

05.01.2022 GI cancers are notoriously hard to treat, so what insights have led to survival rates improving over the past 30 years? And what hope does the future hold? In our 30th anniversary year, join us as we take a look back at how a GI cancer patient's experience has changed over the years and what we've learned about treating GI cancers. We'll also explore the exciting discoveries currently being tested which could radically change treatment in the future. Doctor Lorraine Chantril...l, GI Cancer Institute Chair, is our webinar host and will lead the conversation with our expert guest speakers, prominent GI cancer researchers Professor John Zalcberg OAM and Associate Professor Jeanne Tie. Register now and secure your spot: https://us02web.zoom.us//9016167/WN_RhcM8OFtTdKm2fgrK2E9ng

05.01.2022 We know that those affected by cancer have many questions about the COVID-19 vaccines, including if the risks and side effects are the same for people affected by cancer and whether a person’s cancer care or other health care will be affected. To help with these questions, Cancer Australia has compiled FAQs based on input from cancer clinicians, people affected by cancer, and queries and concerns raised in social media. The answers to these FAQs are based on information and evidence currently available in Australia and internationally. https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au//covid-19-vaccines/FAQs

05.01.2022 In Australia each year, 52,000 people are diagnosed with a rare or less common cancer; 25,000 wont survive. Rare cancers have much lower survival rates than common cancers, but why? Join medical oncologist Professor David Goldstein and Rare Cancers Australia Chief Executive Richard Vines on 18 September as they demystify rare cancers and talk about how to develop research in an area that is critically underfunded. The webinar is free to attend. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us//6515966/WN_0WGhBtieQP6merQLghlRNA

04.01.2022 Even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our GI cancer researchers continued to make breakthroughs this year. We were thrilled to recognise them at our Annual Scientific Meeting last Friday, with the presentation of our annual Awards supported by AstraZeneca. The award recipients are: - John Zalcberg OAM Award for Excellence in AGITG Research: This prestigious award for a senior researcher went to Professor Niall Tebbutt, Director of Medical Oncology at the Olivia Newton-John ...Cancer Wellness & Research Centre - Member Fundraiser of the Year Award: Doctor Matt Burge, who has raised over $47,000 for GI cancer clinical trials - Merck-AGITG Clinical Research Fellowship: Doctor Fiona Paxton-Hall - Outstanding Site Award: Monash Health, accepted by Unit Manager Karen Gillett - Best New Concept Award Winner: Associate Professor Jeanne Tie - Best New Concept Award Runner-Up: Doctor Natalie Collier - Best of Posters Award: Doctor Oliver Piercey The dedication of our researchers is incredible, and these outstanding achievements are highly deserving of recognition. Congratulations to all of the award winners!

04.01.2022 In the past 20 years, there have been significant advances in reducing the mortality rates for common cancers compared to the number of diagnoses; but for rare cancers (fewer than 6 diagnoses per 100,000 of the population) the increase in mortality rates far outstrip the rising diagnosis rates. Dont miss our webinar with medical oncologist Professor David Goldstein and Rare Cancers Australia Chief Executive Richard Vines as they demystify rare cancers and talk about how con...ducting research in rare cancers is unique. Unlocking the mysteries of Rare Cancers: Friday 18 September at 11:30am AEST. Its free to register. https://us02web.zoom.us//6515966/WN_0WGhBtieQP6merQLghlRNA

03.01.2022 Remember this adventure? In 2015 a group of 14 Gutsy adventurers scaled the snowy peaks of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to raise $136,000 for the Innovation Fund grant. You can read their day by day struggles and triumphs in their story here: https://gicancer.org.au/news/a-summit-reached/ ... Although our #GutsyChallenge treks have been postponed this year, you can still help support innovative ideas into GI cancer treatments by taking on an individual challenge. Find out how: https://fightforthefrontline.gofundraise.com.au/

03.01.2022 Earlier this year, we welcomed the Governments announcement of a National Pancreatic Cancer Roadmap to support improved outcomes for people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Survival rates for pancreatic cancer are still tragically low, and it is expected to be the third leading cause of cancer death in Australia in 2020. Cancer Australia is now inviting the public to have their say on the National Pancreatic Cancer Roadmap through a dedicated Consultation Hub. The Roadmap ...will identify key priority areas for action over the next five years and consider all areas of the cancer pathway, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, supportive and palliative care. We encourage our community to contribute to the Consultation Hub and have your say. Submissions close 30 November 2020: https://consultations.health.gov.au//national-pancreatic-/.

03.01.2022 For the fourth year in a row, the Mike Leeke Golf Day will be held in Perth to raise vital funds for GI cancer research! The Mike Leeke Golf Day is held in honour of Mike who passed away from #BowelCancer in 2018. Once the final diagnosis was confirmed, Mike’s house was a massive hub of people calling in and enjoying a beer. It was the true mark of the man. People came from all over the country just to spend that little bit of time with Mike, says Gareth Norman, a friend of... Mike’s and one of the Golf day organisers. Mike’s wife Leonie and their friends, decided to create a fundraiser from one of Mike’s favourite past times, to support the 28,600 Australians diagnosed with GI cancer each year. They have an amazing array of prizes available this year kindly donated by some incredible sponsors: West Star Point Mercedes Perth Wildcats Dakz Menswear Practical Products Pinnacle Commercial Interiors APFM APEX Joondalup Resort Perth Fishing Safaris Future Golf Society Callaway Golf Rottnest Ferries You can read Mike’s full story here: https://gicancer.org.au/story/mike-leeke-golf-day/ If you’re interested in hosting your own sporting fundraiser, get in touch with [email protected]. We look forward to being a part of another amazing Golf Day!

03.01.2022 April is #OesophagealCancerAwarenessMonth. Close to 1,500 Australians are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year. Research into new treatments is the best way to improve outcomes for these people, and we currently have four clinical trials open trying to do just that. These trials are investigating different approaches to treatment in both early stage and advanced patients, from adding an immunotherapy drug to chemo-radiation, determining if a new chemotherapy drug is... more effective than the current standard, to adding radiation prior to surgery. You can find out more about our open trials here: https://gicancer.org.au/clinical-trial/status/open/

02.01.2022 Tomorrow Dr Naureen Starling from The Royal Marsden Hospital, UK, will be presenting at our GI Cancer Annual Scientific Meeting. She will be presenting on Colorectal Cancer Current Practice and Controversies/Developments. We are honoured to have her present at this Meeting. She is a leading researcher in the areas of oesophageal, gastric, pancreatic, NETs and colorectal cancers. Learn more about her work: https://asm.gicancer.org.au/invited-faculty/

01.01.2022 This weekend, The Schultz Family along with their amazing friends will take part in the 12km #NTCity2Surf. So far they have raised over $5,000 for the GI Cancer Institute to support #BowelCancer research. Daniel Schultz was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer in 2019 and is currently undergoing surgery in Melbourne - far away from his loved ones. As an avid runner he was disappointed to miss this year's City2Surf but his wife Marion, his young daughter and their wonderful team of s...upporters will take to the streets of Darwin to finish it in his honour! We wish you the best of luck and will be cheering you on from afar!

01.01.2022 Exciting News: next Friday our Annual Scientific Meeting will be held. Over 350 health professionals have signed up for our first ever online Meeting to exchange ideas, hear about the latest in innovative trials and form collaborative relationships with colleagues in the GI cancer space. Professor Stephen Ackland, medical oncologist and Board Member of the GI Cancer Institute is the Convenor of the meeting read his story here: https://gicancer.org.au//member-spotlight-professor-steve/

01.01.2022 On 18 September, Professor David Goldstein and Richard Vines are hosting our next webinar: Unlocking the mysteries of Rare Cancers. Both of our guest speakers have dedicated themselves to improving outcomes for people with rare cancers. Professor David Goldstein is a medical oncologist at Prince of Wales Hospital. His research is focused on novel therapeutics trials and clinical research into several rare GI cancers. Richard Vines is the Chair and Chief Executive of @RareCa...ncersAustralia (RCA). Richard and his wife Kate established RCA, a patient advocacy group and key participant in the broader cancer community, whose mission is to improve the lives and outcomes for rare cancer patients. Learn more about our speakers and register for the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us//6515966/WN_0WGhBtieQP6merQLghlRNA