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Women and Infants Research Foundation

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25.01.2022 Have you read the story in the latest edition of The Post highlighting the generosity and commitment to helping women in need of Perth mother and small business owner, Liz Blaxell? Liz and Message In A Pocket have partnered with WIRF to donate a number of high-quality and high-humour Ladies Knickers for the Foundations Womens Care Packages which support WA women undergoing cancer treatments. It was such a privilege being able to pass some of the knickers on - that really i...s the whole idea of the business. Hopefully they bring some comfort and light to a few people's lives, Liz said. Read the story on page 34 of the latest edition of The Post here: https://tinyurl.com/yyvg4bhx Visit the Message In A Pocket website and grab your pair of bespoke knickers or undies here: www.messageinapocket.net To fund your own Womens Care Package please visit: https://wirf.com.au/BabyBundles_CarePackages POST Newspapers #messageinapocket #womenscarepackages #cancerpacks #WAisbest #perthcharity #WIRFWA #womenshealth

24.01.2022 A special reception at Government House Western Australia for WIRF’s valued supporters was the perfect way to end a very special World Prematurity Day 2020. WIRF’s Patron and Governor of Western Australia, the Hon Kim Beazley AC, and his wife, Ms Susie Annus, generously hosted the special event which provided guests an insight into our pioneering research to prevent preterm birth. WIRF would like to thank everyone that attended and supported the Government House reception and... we extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Governor, Ms Annus, and all the staff at Government House. These incredible pictures were captured by Courtney Holloway Photography.

24.01.2022 Could a reduction in rates of early birth due to the COVID lockdowns be an unexpected but welcome side-effect of the pandemic? That is exactly what a new study by WIRF and the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance is seeking to discover and is the focus of a feature in todays The West Australian. The pioneering study will provide an Australian context to reports out of Denmark, Ireland, the US and Canada of fewer preterm babies being born through the pandemic.... Alliance Chair and WIRFs Professor John Newnham AM explained there were many potential explanations for the drop in premature births. Possible factors protecting a pregnancy from early preterm birth by lockdown tend to involve the consequences of women staying at home, including the increase in physical rest, reduced exposure to infectious diseases and reduced exposure to air pollution. Digital subscribers can read the story at the link below or you can view the print article here: https://tinyurl.com/y5pu22dr

24.01.2022 On behalf of everyone at WIRF, we would like to wish all of the Foundation’s friends, followers and supporters a safe and Merry Christmas. Reflecting on what WIRF has achieved in 2020, despite the significant challenges we have all faced, fills us with great pride as Ambassadors. Our successes are your successes as we continue our very important work to build healthy Australian families.... Merry Christmas from the Hussey family!

23.01.2022 As part of #PrematurityAwarenessMonth we want to make sure all mothers-to-be and those planning a pregnancy have their copy of the 2020 edition of The Whole Nine Months magazine. The 12-page magazine contains expert editorial relating to pre-conception and pregnancy care, and the latest in the field of preterm birth prevention. The Whole Nine Months Magazine is the major public health education vehicle for WIRF and the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance to engage wi...th maternity care providers, health professionals and pregnant women across the country. Read it now at: https://tinyurl.com/y8yxbqoq #thewholeninemonths #WNM #pretermbirth #prematurity #preterm #borntoosoon #PrematurityAwarenessMonth

23.01.2022 As we continue to celebrate 2020 International Year of the Nurse and Midwife we want to hear about those very special gals and guys and how theyve impacted your life. 2020 International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife presents a unique opportunity to recognise and showcase the work and contributions of nurses and midwives to patients and to our community. Were more than a little biased but we think our King Eddies crew are the cream of the crop caring for new mothers, i...nfants and families from all corners of metro, regional and remote WA. #IYNM #midwives #nurses #midwives

23.01.2022 A new study examining the link between a womans bacterial signature and preterm birth is being heralded as a major breakthrough in pregnancy care. Just published in the leading medical publication, American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the world-first Predict1000 Study has identified a vaginal bacterial DNA signature that identifies pregnant women who are at increased risk of preterm birth. Read the full study findings here: https://wirf.com.au/unmaskingbacterialsigna...tures This work first shot to national prominence in 2018 when Prof John Newnham appeared on Sevens Sunrise: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc0CzS-LAXE This work has been supported by National Health and Medical Research Council - NHMRC, Telethon7 Perth and WIRF. #pretermbirth #Predict1000 #GLUtest #bacterialsignature #bortntoosoon #pretermalliance #thewholeninemonths

23.01.2022 A big congratulations to Joanne Beedie on being named one of WA's biggest movers and shakers as part of the recent Business News 40 under 40 Awards. Joanne and the entire team at helping little hands do an incredible job of removing the stresses of the neonatal unit so families can remain focused on making the most of their NICU journey. Congrats Joanne!

22.01.2022 The 2020 edition of The Whole Nine Months Magazine is out now! Published in today's The West Australian, this valuable resource explains the key health interventions and latest research findings for mothers-to-be and health care professionals to reduce the rates and impact of preterm birth. Every year more than 26,000 Australian babies are born too soon. The Whole Nine Months, WIRF, and the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance, has this unacceptable statistics squarel...y in their sights. Our work to prevent early birth, led by 2020 Senior Australian of the Year, Prof John Newnham AM, is informing national approach to preventing preterm birth and saving untold heartache for parents and families. Read the latest edition of The Whole Nine Months Magazine here: http://info.thewest.com.au/westadvert//20200515/index.html We ask you to please support Prof Newnhams incredibly important work for women, mothers and families everywhere: www.wirf.com.au/donate Australian of the Year Awards The Whole Nine Months Royal Aust & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists RANZCOG Australian College of Midwives (ACM) @everyweekcounts SAHMRI North Metropolitan Health Service Royal North Shore Hospital University of Sydney Perrigo Company Pharmacy 777 Fertility Specialists of Western Australia St John of God Subiaco Hospital @BesinsHealthcare

21.01.2022 Beyond our commitment to research excellence, WIRF sets its sights on solutions using our research findings to kick-start and sustain positive change. We are committed to ensuring that the research we do is put into practice and policy by health care providers, governments and other key stakeholders to achieve practical and tangible health outcomes. A perfect example of our commitment to effective research translation can be seen through our work into optimising the essenti...al use of steroids in pregnancy which is focused on limiting any potential side effects of excess exposure to both mother and baby. This critical work has been supported by Telethon7 Perth and WIRF among other key stakeholders and supporters. To find out more about this ground-breaking study go to: https://wirf.com.au/safeuseofsteroids

21.01.2022 The shift to virtual care in response to COVID-19 has left an indelible mark on how we all think and feel about medical appointments. What's clear is that Telehealth is here to stay. King Eddies in particular is offering a number of medical appointments via videoconference and the benefits for many are clear to see. Make sure you’re up-to-speed on how best to get connected this Telehealth Awareness Week.

21.01.2022 A renewed focus on miscarriage, and the movement to remove the stigma that it still carries, is sweeping the globe following the announcement that the Duchess of Sussex had very sadly lost her second child. The courage shown by Meghan and Harry reminds us of the incredible women that work with WIRF and continue to bravely bare their souls and share experiences in the hope of helping others. This short video unveiled on World Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day 2020, contai...ns powerful messages of families that have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. WIRF thanks all the women and families that continue to partner with us in our mission to build healthy Australian families. #miscarriage #infantloss #stillbirth #pregnancyloss #borntoosoon #littleangel #premmie #preterm

21.01.2022 A Nedlands institution supporting Western Australian women, mothers and babies! WIRF were incredibly lucky to be hosted by the iconic Steves Bar & Cafe as part of a recent event to celebrate the Foundation’s achievements and our family of supporters that continue to enable our very important work. Guests were treated to exquisite wines and enjoyed and Steves’ Executive Chef’s famous canapés and renowned hospitality.... MC, Tina Altieri led an evening of informed conversation with WIRF’s Prof John Newnham, Deb Portughes, and long-time supporter Anita Moullin. WIRF would like to thank the entire Steves family, our guests, and all the incredibly generous event sponsors: Steves, Jansz Tasmania, Vasse Felix, Atrio Property Group, Deep Woods Estate and Festival Fish Wholesalers. #steves #WIRFWA #WIRF #stevesbarandcafe #vassefelix #atrio #deepwoods #festivalfish #jansz

21.01.2022 Did you catch our double feature in the latest edition of The POST Newspapers? As well as the article examining our pioneering Predict1000 Study which uses a womans bacterial signature to pre-empt preterm birth Professor John Newnhams upcoming presentation to the National Seniors Australia, Western Suburbs chapter, was also canvassed. Prof Newnham will take a virtual crowd back to where it all started for his presentation, From the bush of Mount Claremont to a lifetime... in obstetric medicine. The event is sold out. You can read the feature in The Post here: https://tinyurl.com/y5foq5s9

21.01.2022 Its happening this afternoon!!! You are invited to a Fireside Chat with leading obstetricians and gynaecologists across Australia and New Zealand who will aim to answer any of your questions about COVID-19 and pregnancy. The online panel will convene via Zoom from 6pm-7pm AEST.... To register go to: https://www.cognitoforms.com/RANZCOG/RANZCOGFiresideChat For more information on this very important Royal Aust & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists RANZCOG webinar, including bios of our expert panel, visit: https://ranzcog.edu.au/news/fireside-chat-with-ranzcog

21.01.2022 It is an unavoidable reality that being born to too soon is a major cause of infant loss. For many that experience a preterm birth, the NICU journey is a small price to pay to secure the long term health of their child. For others, the diagnosis can be much more serious with significant health issues and disability an all too real outcome that can impact throughout a lifetime.... As part of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, we want to shine a light on all families that have experienced a preterm birth, especially those that have lost a beloved son or daughter to this complication of pregnancy that currently affects more than 15 million families worldwide each year. Through the work of WIRF’s Chief Scientific Director and 2020 Senior Australian of the Year, Professor John Newnham AM, and our many other world-class researchers, we are leading the national effort to prevent early birth and it’s far reaching impacts and the world is watching. Because we still don’t know why some babies are born too soon, but we desperately need to. We also hope that you are able to join us on our important journey: www.wirf.com.au/donate #infantlossawarenessmonth #infantloss #stillbirth #pregnancyloss #borntoosoon #littleangel #premmie #preterm

20.01.2022 The notion that a premature birth is an obscure occurrence that won’t affect me simply isn’t true. Each year more than 15 million babies are born too soon worldwide. Tragically, for more than one million of these babies, the day they’re born is the day they die. Socioeconomic status, education, and previous full-term births count for little as preterm birth does not discriminate.... We have made some incredible advances in this field but the reality is that we still don’t know why some babies are born too soon, but we desperately need to. Our pioneering work to prevent early birth, led by 2020 Senior Australian of the Year, Prof John Newnham AM, is preventing preterm birth and its significant social and economic impact on families and communities. Far beyond the numbers, it is saving untold heartache. As part of #PrematurityAwarenessMonth we want to raise awareness of preterm birth and its far reaching impacts and support for our fight to make preterm birth a thing of the past: www.wirf.com.au/donate #worldprematurityday @worldpremday #pretermbirth #preterm #thewholeninemonths #borntoosoon #APTPA #pretermalliance #premmie #NICU

20.01.2022 Liz and Todd Daly are exceptional people with a truly powerful story. After losing their twin boys, Max and Noah, to the very rare twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in 2015, Todd and Elizabeth Daly realised how many babies are lost preterm and just how special a full term baby really is. You can read more about the Daly’s story and their happy ending with son, Jack and daughter, Pippa, with the Perth Now feature we did for Telethon in 2018: https://tinyurl.com/yy59rpt8... As part of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, we want to thank Liz, Todd and the countless other families that have experienced loss and preterm birth, that continue to work with us and bravely share their experiences to help others. Support from Telethon7 Perth has been critical to WIRF’s pioneering WA Preterm Birth Prevention Program and our continued efforts to build healthy Western Australian families. #infantlossawarenessmonth #infantloss #stillbirth #pregnancyloss #borntoosoon #littleangel #premmie #preterm #telethon

19.01.2022 One more sleep!!!! The Euroz Hartleys Foundation Commission for a Cause event is happening tomorrow and we just can't wait. The event will see 100% of all brokerage generated on that day donated equally to WIRF and two other partner beneficiaries, the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation and the Western Australian Cricket Foundation.... For WIRF, that means we can continue our critical research and programs that are focussed on achieving a future where no Australian baby is born too soon. Last year, Commission for a Cause raised $225,000, and we can’t wait to throw our weight behind what we hope is a record-breaking result in 2021! Get involved with Commission for a Cause 2021 here: https://lnkd.in/gNYeDZm If you're not trading, you can directly support the event via the dedicated My Cause page: https://www.mycause.com.au/pa/253514/commission-for-a-cause #EurozHartleys #eurozHartleysFoundation #CFAC #CommissionforaCause

18.01.2022 WIRF has just released the Winter 2021 edition of its newsletter, Delivering the Future. Read feature articles on a major federal funding announcement to bolster national preterm birth prevention efforts, our role in shaping the Fourth Australian Atlas of Healthcare Variation, outcomes of a breaking IVF study, and previews for the upcoming WIRF Gala and Stars events. View the online edition here: https://tinyurl.com/p5hcpryk... If you would like to join our amazing community of supporters and champion WIRF’s research and programs like those featured in our newsletter, please donate before 30 June 2021 to claim your tax deductible receipt: www.wirf.com.au/donate #WIRF #WIRFWA #deliveringthefuture #EOFY #medicalresearch #research

16.01.2022 As part of our recent event hosted at Government House, WIRF were thrilled to announce the launch of the Attilia and Marco Tomasi Gift Matching Program. Mr Frank Tomasi officially unveiled the $50,000 Gift Matching Program on World Prematurity Day which will honour the memory of Frank’s late wife, Attlilia, and their son Marco. This incredibly generous donation, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar for the next $50,000, will provide much needed support for research and pro...grams with strong linkages to experiences Attilia encountered in her own life including the tragic loss of Marco as a newborn baby. As part of the event, WIRF’s Patron and Governor of Western Australia, the Hon Kim Beazley AC, presented a framed certificate of appreciation to Frank Tomasi and the entire Tomasi family in recognition of their incredibly generous ongoing support. To learn more about Attilia and Marco’s story, and to support the Gift Matching Program, visit: https://wirf.com.au/TomasiMatchingProgram #pretermbirth #womenscancer #borntoosoon #WIRF #WIRFWA #tomasi #tomasifamily #charity #medicalresearch #preterm

16.01.2022 Did you catch the page 3 story in todays The West Australian which has shown late motherhood is well and truly on the rise after latest health data revealed the rate of babies born to WA women in their 20s is now at a record low. In 1975, more than 70% of babies were born to women in their 20s. This has now almost halved with more women choosing to delay until their 30s and 40s. Theres certainly no right and wrong in this discussion with the skew towards late motherhood imp...acted by positive factors such as education, careers, and other opportunities. However, WIRFs Professor John Newnham AM does caution of the increased risks of problems such as fertility and pregnancy diabetes for older mums that we should all be aware of. What was your experience and how did it compare with that of your mother or daughter?

16.01.2022 Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there! We have been incredibly lucky to have met and worked with so many amazing dads over the years. They are absolute pillars of strength - supporting their partners through the most trying of experiences, taking on more than they thought was humanly possible, and being the incredible fathers they were always destined to be. ... These are just some of the amazing dads that we've been lucky enough to work with here at WIRF. Tag below a special dad who is doing an amazing job!

16.01.2022 Quads! Beautiful, beautiful quads!!! A huge congratulations to mum and dad and our incredible MFM Gold Team.

16.01.2022 Did you catch our trailblazing Preterm Birth Prevention Study featured in the latest edition of the POST Newspapers. This clinical trial, which is looking at the presence of specific bacteria in mid pregnancy to identify women who are likely to deliver early, is being carried out right here in Perth with our key partners including St John of God Subiaco Hospital. Read the page 32 story here: https://tinyurl.com/yy9o44xu... For more information about the Preterm Birth Prevention Study please visit: https://wirf.com.au/PBPstudy

15.01.2022 This Christmas, WIRF and the Tomasi family, is giving you the chance to instantly double any donation to our work and double its positive impact. The Attilia and Marco Tomasi Gift Matching Program will match, dollar-for-dollar, the next $50,000 in donations to WIRF. The Program will directly support research with strong linkages to experiences Attilia encountered in her own life including the tragic loss of her newborn son Marco.... Donate now and double your impact: https://wirf.com.au/TomasiMatchingProgram #WIRFWA #WIRF #doubledonation #doublethegood #doubletheimpact #tomasi #tomasiwines

15.01.2022 An enchanting evening teeming with good vibes! Last night we were incredibly lucky to be hosted by long-time supporters, Linneys, as part of an intimate event celebrating the Foundations achievements and our valued supporters that continue to enable these successes. Exquisite food and hospitality from Cameron and Luke at The Butler and The Chef was perfectly paired with leading wines from Vasse Felix all framed by the incomparable backdrop of the Linneys Subiaco showroom.... Guests were treated to informed conversation with WIRFs Prof John Newnham, Prof Matt Kemp and Deb Portughes, and were showered with the renowned hospitality and warmth of Alan and Michelle Linney and the entire Linneys family. Adding layers of magic to the evening were the florals and styling of Krystal Addison of Addison & Bloom. WIRF would like to thank the entire Linneys family, our guests, and all the incredibly generous suppliers that were behind last nights magical evening. #linneys #WIRFWA #WIRF #linneyssubiaco #butlerandthechef #addisonandbloom #vassefelix

15.01.2022 Going above and beyond is something the incredible staff at King Eddies take great pride in. We congratulate all the nominees and winners of the latest Staff Excellence Awards.

15.01.2022 It you missed the recent Royal Aust & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists RANZCOG webinar featuring a number of our leading obstetricians and gynaecologists, including WIRF's own Prof John Newnham AM, answering questions across the full gambit of COVID-19 and pregnancy you can watch it here: https://vimeo.com/450971058/2c4b7beda1 #COVID__19 #COVID19au #COVID19nz

14.01.2022 As part of the 2020 International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, WIRF would like to highlight the invaluable contributions of two exceptional midwives to our world unique Preterm Birth Prevention Outreach Program. Midwives Suzie Allen and Cate Belcher have taken a lead role in organising the Outreach Program which has twice traversed across WA to provide education to maternity care providers in their own work environments about new health interventions to prevent preterm birt...h. In 2019, the team travelled 11,280kms across metropolitan, regional and remote WA. A total of 257 health care professionals participated in these education sessions including doctors, midwives, nurses, medical students, sonographers, pharmacists, and physiotherapists. Both Suzie and Cate have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the Outreach Program and the safe prevention of preterm birth and its far reaching impacts for all WA families. #outreachprogram #thewholeninemonths #pretermalliance #midwives #nurses

14.01.2022 Midwives at King Eddies play a critical role in supporting and caring for WA women during pregnancy, labour and birth. Regardless of what is happening in our community, our incredible team of midwives go above and beyond every day to keep our WA community safe and build healthy families.

14.01.2022 Women supporting women and doing it in style!!! Yok Djakoorliny, in partnership with WIRF, were recently successful in obtaining a Commonwealth grant to support Aboriginal mothers attending King Edward Memorial Hospital. Yok Djakoorliny connected with Rebecca Rickard of Deadly Denim to make 150 bags containing essential items for Aboriginal mothers coming to Whadjuk boodja to have their babies.... Yok members purchased onesies and other essentials with Yoks, Melissa Snow organising the maternity pads through Coles Bassendean. Yok Djakoorliny aims to improve the health and well-being of Aboriginal women by engaging and supporting them in a range of physical activities in a safe and culturally appropriate way. Their members have participated in many different events such as MSWA Ocean Ride, City to Surf, Outback Marathon, and have organised the Inspire event over the last few years. Yok Dkajoorliny are proud to support the health and well-being of their yok and their kulunga. #yok #WIRFWA #kingeddies #carepacks #womenshealth #aboriginalvolunteers #aboriginalhealth #deadlydenim #volunteers #KEMH North Metropolitan Health Service

14.01.2022 Today marks the end of an era for WIRF and King Edward Memorial Hospital as we said a tearful farewell to Annemarie Weekes after 20 years of incredible service managing the WIRF Café. Annemaries dedication and welcoming nature has touched the lives of countless new mothers and families that have come through the Hospital and Café doors. For more than 2 decades, Annemarie has taken the greatest pride in providing a friendly and warm atmosphere for mums-to-be, new parents, vi...sitors and staff to relax. We are extremely grateful to Annemarie, not only for her incredible contributions to the Café and KEMH but also to the Foundation which have directly supported WIRFs research and scientific achievements. Cheers to you Annemarie!!! North Metropolitan Health Service

14.01.2022 At the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the months which have followed, there was an enormous demand for information about COVID-19 and how it would affect them individuals, families and communities. There was a particularly strong and justifiable demand and growing fear from those at an increased risk of infection including our pregnant population. To ensure that those pregnant or considering a pregnancy had the most up-to-date and correct information, WIRF created ...a weekly video series delivered by Professor John Newnham which sought to provide important information for all pregnant women and their families about the impact of COVID-19 on their health and that of their pregnancy. These videos, which have been endorsed by the Royal Aust & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists RANZCOG have garnered a reach of more than 125,000 through WIRFs social media platforms alone. These videos have also produced a highly effective platform for Prof Newnham - the 2020 Senior Australia of the Year - to continue his critical work on behalf of the nation despite unprecedented restrictions. You can view the full suite of Prof Newnhams videos here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist

13.01.2022 WIRF would like to give a big shout out to Maryanne and the entire team at Cancer Council Western Australia for their very generous donation of high quality wool to our Knitters & Sewers program. WIRFs Social Work volunteers, Liz and Deb were on hand to take this incredible donation which will be used for blankets to bring comfort to our oncology patients and premmie babies. WIRF sincerely thanks all the generous Cancer Council donors for sharing your love of others in need.... #knittersandsewers #cancercouncil #volunteering #volunteers #womeninneed

13.01.2022 The traditional early birthing of twins is under question as new Australian research shows that while preterm births have soared there is no evidence of a drop in foetal deaths or stillbirths. Obstetric intervention before 40 weeks gestation has long been considered the best way to keep babies safe but a study out today in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ANZJOG) shows the benefits of prolonging pregnancy should not be overlooked. Read the August edition of ANZJOG here: https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/1479828x/current

12.01.2022 This Festive Season we are encouraging all our valued supporters to double the impact of their support of WIRF as part of a very special program. WIRF and the Tomasi family, is giving you the chance to instantly double any donation to our work and double its positive impact. The Attilia and Marco Tomasi Gift Matching Program will match, dollar-for-dollar, the next $50,000 in donations to WIRF.... The Program will directly support research with strong linkages to experiences Attilia encountered in her own life including the tragic loss of her newborn son Marco. Donate now and double your impact: https://wirf.com.au/TomasiMatchingProgram #WIRFWA #WIRF #doubledonation #doublethegood #doubletheimpact #tomasi #tomasiwines

11.01.2022 The past 25 years has seen a substantial improvement in neonatal mortality which has reduced by half, largely thanks to advances in the care of preterm babies. Sadly, the same improvement has not been seen in preterm birth. Over that same time period, the rate of early birth has actually increased, from one in every 15 births to now one in 12. Despite the remarkable improvement in survival, babies born early continue to face significant challenges.... Although our most preterm babies are at greatest risk, the vast majority of early birth occurs at later gestations. There, the risk of death and other severe complications is lower, but given the large number of these children, even small risks and relatively minor health impacts contribute to a large burden of health problems in our community. All early births are important to prevent in order to give all of our children the best possible start to life, so they may go on to enjoy good health throughout their lives. Listen to Dr Scott White discuss the spectrum of preterm birth and its consequences here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiESklZzMRU #thewholeninemonths #australianpretermbirthpreventionalliance #pretermalliance #APTBPA #WIRFWA

11.01.2022 We came to King Eddies with so little. Our Baby Bundle was an absolute blessing full of beautiful handmade items. We are forever grateful. Our Baby Bundles provide essential babywear and blankets for those babies that are born preterm, in an emergency, or to mothers in desperate situations. Give a baby the much needed essentials this Christmas by sponsoring a personalised Baby Bundle for $25 or a package of 10 Baby Bundles for $250.... Fund a Baby Bundle here: https://wirf.com.au/BabyBundles_CarePackages #babybundles #borntoosoon #preterm #premature #NICU #WIRF #WIRFWA #volunteers

11.01.2022 Every person, or couple, and their fertility journey is unique. This means your fertility treatment should be individual too. WIRF’s long-time supporters, Fertility Specialists of Western Australia (FSWA), are one of Australia’s leading fertility clinics. By creating an individual treatment plan tailored to your specific fertility needs, FSWA aims to help everyone experience the joy of family.... In this video, FSWA’s Dr Tamara Hunter speaks about the benefits of a multidisciplinary team in your fertility journey. #FSWA #fertiltiyservicesofwesternaustralia #thewholeninemonths #IVF #fertilitytreatment #ovulation #WIRF #WIRFWA

11.01.2022 Were thrilled that the WIRF KEMH Op Shop is back open again doing what it does best supporting new mothers and families in need, backing WIRFs pioneering research, and providing bountiful bargains to all our friends and followers. We are currently open Monday-Wednesday from 9:30am-2:30pm. Pop in and see us were located on the Lower Ground Floor at KEMH next to the cashier's office. The Op Shop is staffed by our selfless volunteers who serve the community with the utmost care.

11.01.2022 A new WA study examining the longer-term health outcomes of children born from IVF treatment is being heralded as a major breakthrough. The study, led by WIRF Research Fellow, Professor Roger Hart, examined influences on gene regulation within the genome of children born from IVF and is the largest and most detailed of its kind. Read more about this breaking IVF study in the latest edition of WIRF’s newsletter, Delivering the Future, here: https://tinyurl.com/p5hcpryk... #WIRF #WIRFWA #deliveringthefuture #ivf #reproduction #ART #fertility

10.01.2022 Like all things in life, at the heart of your great weakness will be your greatest strength." Its hard not to be more than a little patriotic listening to Prof John Newnham AM recount the beginnings of our world-leading research efforts to prevent preterm birth and why Western Australia is the ideal place to conduct and deliver high-impact medical research. Prof Newnham recently sat down with Business News Mark Pownall as part of their Success and Leadership series. ... Watch the full interview here: https://tinyurl.com/y4ntxx88 #businessnews #BN #Success #Leadership #WAisbest #profjohnnewnham #WIRF #WIRFWA #pretermbirth #thewholeninemonths #pretermalliance Business News

10.01.2022 If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that infectious diseases are a major health concern and to combat them innovative, high quality research is required. While viruses have received a great deal of recognition for all the wrong reasons, WIRF Research Fellow, Dr Lucy Furfaro, is flipping the script and shares with us why not all viruses are the enemy, but rather could help us tackle our own bacterial enemies. Read our ‘Spotlight on Dr Lucy Furfaro’ in the latest edition of W...IRF’s newsletter, Delivering the Future, here: https://tinyurl.com/p5hcpryk #WIRF #WIRFWA #deliveringthefuture #phages #medicalresearch

10.01.2022 Today is National Rainbow Baby Day. A rainbow baby is a baby born after the loss of a child. Rainbows are a symbol of promise and hope, a gift of light and beauty. Rainbow babies arent replacing their older sibling(s) and their presence does not erase the impact of the storm before them. ... We can enjoy and celebrate the rainbow baby while still honouring the storm that came before. Do you have a Rainbow Baby? Tell us what helped you through your rainbow pregnancy and help support others going through this difficult time.

10.01.2022 CHANGE THE COURSE OF A LIFE THIS CHRISTMAS The festive season can be a wonderful time of joy and celebration, but for many mothers and newborns it can be a difficult time. Those born too soon face an array of health problems as well as the prospect of extended stays in neonatal intensive care units. For women undergoing cancer treatment, the journey is often fraught with fear and uncertainty.... Give a gift that gives back this year by making a donation to our Baby Bundles Program or Women’s Care Packages which will directly support women, mothers and babies in real need. To learn more, and to donate, please visit: https://wirf.com.au/christmasappeal

09.01.2022 Womens Health Week got off to a fast start for us yesterday morning with a visit from the Governor of Western Australia and WIRFs Patron, The Honourable Kim Beazley AC. The Governor met with key WIRF and KEMH staff and was particularly interested to hear of current COVID-19 research being spearheaded out of WA. WIRFs Chief Scientific Director, Prof John Newnham AM, and Chief Operations Director, Deb Portughes, updated the Governor on the latest research and scientific achi...evements as well as how the Foundation had pivoted and transformed its operations in response to the pandemic. The Governor was excited to hear of an upcoming Australia-wide study being led by WIRF and the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance examining the link between the imposed Coronavirus lockdowns and rates of early preterm birth. We thank The Governor, his wife Ms Susie Annus, and all the incredible staff at Government House Western Australia for their ongoing support. Women's Health Week (7-11 September) is a nation-wide campaign of events and online activities all centred on improving women's health and helping you to make healthier choices. #WomensHealthWeek #womenshealth

09.01.2022 Today marks the beginning of the Euroz Hartleys Foundation's 2021 Commission for a Cause event. This event truly represents a coming together of the WA community and each year this incredible partnership grows. Commission for a Cause sees 100% of all brokerage generated on a day donated equally to three West Australian charities of which WIRF is proud to be one.... By trading with Euroz Hartleys today, through Commission for a Cause you can help support WIRF’s pioneering research and programs to improve the health of all women, mothers and their babies. Together we can make a difference Get involved with Commission for a Cause by trading or donating here! - https://www.eurozhartleys.com/commission-for-a-cause #EurozHartleys #eurozHartleysFoundation #CFAC #CommissionforaCause

08.01.2022 No one can be a pillar of strength 24/7. Countless Australians are caregivers for their sick parents, partners, children, friends or others that require assistance. The commitment, selflessness, generosity and kindness of these people cannot be overstated.... This National Carers Week we want to ask the question: Who is caring for the caregivers? The longer that someone provides care whether it’s for a partner, parent, sibling or some other loved one the more likely they are to experience negative effects. All caregivers, both professional and not, need to know their limits, so they can ask for and get help, and maintain their own well-being. #Carers2020 #carersweek

08.01.2022 Congratulations to Professors Carroll and Newman on their nominations in the 2021 Australian of the Year Awards. Let's keep showing them that The West is Best!

08.01.2022 WIRF have been incredibly lucky to have Linneys as one of its most visible and generous supporters over the past few years. Linneys Founder, Alan Linney, discussed his very personal linkage to WIRFs work and what continues to drive Linneys support of the Foundation and its flagship event, the WIRF Spring Gala. I couldnt imagine the journey families of extremely preterm babies must go through. Any way we can contribute to making this a thing of the past is a worthwhile inv...estment. See the full Q&A here: www.wirf.com.au/LinneysandWIRF To learn more about Linneys and their range of bespoke fine jewellery visit: www.linneys.com.au

07.01.2022 In a year full of challenges, WIRF have made it their mission to work harder than ever to ensure the health of every Australian woman, mother and child. The people spearheading this work are some of our country’s leading clinicians and researchers driven by an unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Today more than ever, we need your support to ensure we can continue to deliver and translate our world-class research, build on our succes...ses, and expand the reach and effect of our most high-impact programs to those that desperately need it. We thank you for your support and hope you can continue to walk with us on our journey - https://wirf.com.au/donate

07.01.2022 On World Prematurity Day 2017, WIRF were thrilled to announce Amy and Mike Hussey as its inaugural ambassadors. Many of us were aware of Mike's prowess on the cricket field which would rightly earn him the moniker of Mr Cricket. What most of us didnt know was the preterm birth battle he and wife Amy would have to overcome with not one, but two, of their pregnancies. Our preterm birth journey is something we could never have expected or even imagined but it has been one than... has shaped us and made our family even stronger," Amy explains. Read more about Amy and Mike's preterm birth journey, and why they are so passionate about supporting WIRF, here: https://wirf.com.au/HusseysgointobatforWIRF

07.01.2022 She has been in the role for some months now, but we would like to introduce our friends and followers to WIRF’s new Café and Gift Shop Manager, Michelle Leverton. Michelle is an experienced and talented gastronome who knows a thing or two about fine food and is armed with some big plans for the WIRF’s most visible presence in King Edward Memorial Hospital. "I feel privileged to have found an organisation that conducts research for such an important cause and hope to contribu...te by providing healthy food options for all of the hospital patients, visitors and staff," she said. Michelle will continue the amazing work of Annemarie Weekes who recently retired after an incredible 20 years of service managing the WIRF Cafe. Annemarie’s dedication and welcoming nature touched the lives of countless new mothers and families who came through the Hospital and Café doors. If you're in King Eddies please pop into the Cafe and say hi to Michelle and all the Cafe ladies.

07.01.2022 When it’s all said and done, the only gift that really matters is a healthy and happy family. The entire WIRF team would like to wish all its friends and followers a safe and happy Merry Christmas and thank you for your incredible support in 2020. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

06.01.2022 "I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second." The Duchess of Sussex’s announcement that she suffered a miscarriage in July of this year was shocking, heart-breaking and incredibly brave. The grief for Meghan and Harry, and other high profile couples including John Legend and wife Chrissy Teigen, is a loss experienced by many but talked about by very few.... It demonstrates that this tragic loss really can happen to anyone, no matter how good their pregnancy care, no matter how wanted that pregnancy, no matter how loved and valued their baby might come to be. WIRF strive to provide awareness, education and support for those who have experienced a miscarriage, a stillbirth, or the loss of an infant, as well as conducting world-leading research to ensure everyone is able to experience the true joy of a family. To those that have experienced a miscarriage, we say that even duchesses need support, and that you shouldn’t hesitate to seek it for yourself and talk about how you’re feeling with friends, family and professionals.

06.01.2022 A major advancement in the pioneering use of an artificial womb to save extremely premature babies is being hailed as a medical breakthrough. WIRF researchers have released world-first data demonstrating that its Artificial Womb can now successfully maintain extremely preterm lamb fetuses exposed to intrauterine inflammation. Whilst previous research had demonstrated the feasibility of extended survival with artificial placenta technology, there was no demonstrated use of the... platform to support preterm fetuses compromised by exposure to intrauterine inflammation a common cause of extremely early preterm birth. Read the full story here: www.wirf.com.au/Artificialwomb2020 Listen to study lead, Prof Matt Kemps interview on ABC Science Frictions eye-opening series, Future Uterus, which takes a wombs-eye view of the future of reproduction: https://tinyurl.com/yyba42mv #artificialwomb #evetherapy #artificialplacenta #WIRF #WIRFWA #mattkemp

06.01.2022 Its Day 3 of Womens Health Week! Today the focus is on getting inside story on bladder, gut and bowel health. From gut-nourishing foods and bathroom habits, to pelvic floor fitness and everything in between. Find out more here: www.womenshealthweek.com.au/the-week/wednesday ... #WomensHealthWeek #womenshealth

05.01.2022 Day 2 of Womens Health Week is all about cardiovascular health the health of your heart and blood vessels. Find our more about importance of protecting your cardiovascular system at: www.womenshealthweek.com.au/the-week/tuesday Women's Health Week (7-11 September) is a nation-wide campaign of events and online activities all centred on improving women's health and helping them to make healthier choices.... #WomensHealthWeek #womenshealth

05.01.2022 As we prepare to celebrate the newest nominees and winners of the state and territory based 2021 Australian of the Year Awards, we relive the incredible journey of WIRF’s own Professor John Newnham AM, who would go onto be named the 2020 Senior Australian of the Year. All year long we have had an incredible response from women, mothers, families and health professionals from across the country that have collectively rejoiced in Prof Newnham’s national award. A leader of moder...n obstetrics, Prof Newnham has been instrumental in making Western Australia an international hotspot for research and clinical excellence in pregnancy and life before birth. We at WIRF couldn’t be prouder of John and the incredible leadership, vision and energy he continues to provide in spades. #pretermpioneer #thewholeninemonths #pretermalliance #reflectrespectcelebrate #wereallpartofthestory #australianpretermbirthpreventionalliance #pretermbirth #AUSDAYAWARDS

05.01.2022 Today marks the beginning of Women's Health Week (7-11 September) - a nation-wide campaign of events and online activities all centred on improving women's health and helping them to make healthier choices. With the stress COVID-19 has placed on everyone's lives, its now more important than ever to look after your overall health and wellbeing. This September, Womens Health Week will be a great reminder to take time out to check in on your health and to keep making positive... changes that can last a lifetime. The first day of Womens Health Week is all about talking about the wonders down-under. Find our more here: www.womenshealthweek.com.au/the-week/monday #WomensHealthWeek #womenshealth

05.01.2022 We are thrilled to share the latest instalment in the Business News Success and Leadership series which showcases WIRFs many successes and contributions to the field of preventing preterm birth and that of its Chief Scientific Director, Prof John Newnham AM. From the early beginnings of this previously mysterious life before birth arm of medicine, to our major challenges and achievements, and now our central role in coordinating the national effort to prevent early birth... its all canvassed in this interview with Mark Pownall. WIRF thanks the incredible team at Business News for their partnership, keen interest in our work, and their incredible platforms to further amplify our important work on behalf of all women, mothers and their babies. Watch the interview here: https://www.businessnews.com.au//Success-and-Leadership-SN For more than 26 years Business News has been one of WA's leading general news and information service - aiming to deliver a high-quality news and information service that advances business confidence through vital intelligence. #businessnews #BN #Success #Leadership #WAisbest #profjohnnewnham #WIRF #WIRFWA #pretermbirth #thewholeninemonths #pretermalliance

04.01.2022 If you're out and about at your IGA tomorrow and see local superheros sporting a purple bra please get behind them. Purple Bra Day is something we've long supported here at WIRF and helping women and families impacted by breast cancer remains incredibly important to us. The funds raised will enable new specialist breast care nursing services, counselling, and financial & practical support to all West Australians diagnosed with breast cancer.... Wear it with purple pride ladies! #purplebraday #breastcancer

04.01.2022 We all know of the great work Prof John Newnham has been delivering since he was named the 2020 Senior Australian of the Year in January. What you might not know of yet is the trailblazing work of his King Eddies colleague and 2020 WA Young Australian of the Year, Yarlalu Thomas. Yarlalu, a first year medical student with an absolute passion for closing the gap, is leading the pioneering Lyfe Languages project.... Lyfe Languages aims to translate the language used by doctors, into lay language that can be better understood by people in remote communities. The project focuses on advancing rare diseases diagnosis in children and is set to open up a world of health care opportunities for these regional and remote settings. You can read more about Yarlalus transformative work, and that of Clinical Geneticist, Dr Gareth Baynam, that is impacting so many Western Australians here: https://tinyurl.com/y43tebmt #LyfeLanguages #closingthegap #aboriginalhealth #genetics #PilbaraFaces

04.01.2022 We were thrilled to see our friends and long-time supporters, The Montauk Lighting Co., featured as part of the latest episode of The Block. WA contestants Luke and Jasmin called on the savvy stylists to provide a bespoke lighting piece for their 1910 rebuild. We cant wait to see the finished product! Montauk Lighting is a name synonymous with distinctive, high-quality feature lighting.... For the past 3 years there have been few that can match Montauks generosity and unconditional support of WIRF and our Spring Gala. We cant thank them enough! Check out their website montauklightingco.com today! #montauklightingco #wirfsponsor #perthcharity #womenandinfantsresearch #wirfwa #wirf #theblock #blockheads

04.01.2022 Thanks to you, Beyond Bank has donated $742 to the Women & Infants Research Foundation. This donation will help us to continue to support the most vulnerable and in-need women, mothers and babies in our community. The more you save in the community reward account the more Beyond Bank will donate in an annual reward donation.... Open and account today and save, go to www.beyondbank.com.au/reward

04.01.2022 Our WA healthcare heroes continue to help the most vulnerable Victorians in their COVID crisis. These volunteers are just incredible! Keep looking out for one another, keep caring for your fellow Australians and always remember #InThisTogether2020

03.01.2022 "Every day, every minute, another mother joins us in this club. It's a club no one wants to be a part of, but the love and compassion within it are unlike any other. The instant bond that ignites between two women when we sit together in this pain is almost spiritual." - Kara Keough Bosworth in an open letter to mothers that have experienced loss. #infantlossawarenessmonth #infantloss #stillbirth #pregnancyloss #borntoosoon #littleangel #premmie #preterm

02.01.2022 Telethon 2020 is here!!! The resilience of the Western Australian community has been tested like never before this year and now it’s time to celebrate. As a proud beneficiary, Telethon's support means we can continue to lead the fight for better health for all women, mothers and their babies. It also enables us to develop new medical interventions and technologies like our pioneering Artificial Womb.... WIRF thanks Telethon7 Perth for their critical ongoing support for this pioneering research program and all our studies. #artificialwomb #telethon #telethon7 #waresearch #beneficiaries #evetherapy #pretermbirth #premature #borntoosoon #mattkemp #EVE

02.01.2022 In July 2020, it was announced that Canberra's rates of preterm birth had fallen by an incredible 10% after rolling out their version of WIRFs The Whole Nine Months program. ACT Lead of Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance, Assoc Prof Boon Lim explains how this was achieved and plans to reduce this rate even further. Using our knowledge, the Alliance is providing the framework and support for states and territories to adapt, modify and tailor the existing WA-specific... Initiative for successful implementation in each region. To support the work of WIRF and the Alliance to safely reduce rates of preterm birth please go to: www.wirf.com.au/donate #thewholeninemonths #australianpretermbirthpreventionalliance #pretermalliance #pretermbirth #preterm #WIRF #WIRFWA #premature

01.01.2022 Still having trouble getting going on Monday? Well we've got about 46 million reasons for you to get excited! In a year where WA’s favourite fundraiser’s future was uncertain and many in our community struggled, West Australians still pulled together to raise a record $46.3 million for sick kids. A big congratulations to the Telethon7 Perth team and to all Western Australians for being a part of something truly special!... #Telethon2020 #telethon