2012 ANNUAL REPORT
Transcription
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
2012 ANNUAL REPORT wmrf.org.au Contents Vision, mission & values //02 President’s report //04 Executive director’s report //06 Board and governance //08 OUR TEAM //11 making an impact - research //12 making an impact - care //16 my westmead //20 westmead millennium //22 institute’s new building strategic goals & objectives //26 Financial summary //27 A special thanks //29 members//30 How can you help Photography: Exposure Studios / Helen Coetzee www.exposurestudios.com.au Content: The WriteMedia Network / www.writemedia.com.au Art direction & design: MAXCO / www.maxco.com.au Our very warm thanks to the patients, doctors, nurses, researchers and staff of Westmead who shared their stories, smiled for our camera and gave their time for this report. //32 Values Our vision is to transform lives by supporting outstanding medical research and care. Excellence Mission Through the support of the community, our mission is to fund life-enhancing medical research and clinical care, and to advocate excellence, promote collaboration and foster talent. We value and support outstanding research by world-recognised clinicians and scientists working in multiple fields of research and medical care. We actively support and cultivate the next generation of brilliant minds. Diversity We value and support the facilities, people and dimensions of the Westmead medical campus and their inspiring capacity to translate medical research into patient benefits, from bench to bedside. Collaboration We value and promote the powerful synergies achievable across the campus and globally, and the benefits of integrative research. Impact We value and focus on high benchmarks for research and clinical care that will yield the optimum outcomes for patients and medical cures. VISION, MISSION & VALUES Celebration Dr Dinny Graham Breast Cancer Research Group Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research Recipient of the Westmead Medical Research Foundation Senior Research Support Grant 2012 We celebrate the rewards of medical breakthroughs and the strength of the Westmead campus to achieve lifetransforming results. Annual Report 2012 / / 05 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 04 Vision Annual Report 2012 / / 07 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 06 PATRICK WILDE AM Westmead has had an extraordinary impact on me and my family. When my wife, Jane, received a kidney and pancreas transplant 17 years ago, she was given another chance of life after 20 years of serious ill health due to diabetes. Over the years, we have seen how medical research and clinical care go hand in hand to provide better outcomes for patients. In my family’s case, world class research into transplant techniques at Westmead meant Jane was able to receive both organs, at a time when similar procedures were not being performed as successfully elsewhere. Mr Patrick Wilde AM President I’ve also been amazed by the attention to detail paid by the clinical staff, both at the time of the operation and in the follow up care in the years since. The care provided by Westmead Hospital rivals that of the best hospitals in the world. The aim of Westmead Medical Research Foundation (WMRF) is to support both research and care. Through deeper engagement with our beneficiaries, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research and Westmead Hospital, we are performing that function more successfully than ever before. The Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research conducts world class research across a range of areas and is particularly recognised for its outstanding work on melanoma, multiple sclerosis, liver disease and islet cell transplants in diabetes. WMRF supports this vital work in a number of ways. This year we have disbursed more than $900,000 to the Institute in equipment and grants for medical researchers to give them the financial security they need to be able to continue their amazing work. We have also donated $1 million towards a new $113 million building to house the Institute. Construction began this year and this exciting project will bring researchers physically closer together to enable them to work more productively and effectively. We also support Westmead Hospital in its critical function for the people of Western Sydney. I am delighted that WMRF’s partnership with the Hospital is growing. We have worked closely with the General Manager to identify equipment that the staff really need – from transport beds for newborn babies in intensive care to blood pressure meters and wheelchairs. This year, we have disbursed more than $400,000 toward patient care at the Hospital. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody involved in WMRF’s continued success. Each of our Board members has made an incredible contribution. I would like to particularly acknowledge departing members Mr Ernest Wong and Mr Peter Hasko for their commitment and enthusiasm, and to welcome our new Treasurer, Mr Ken McKenzie. The Commonwealth Government’s May Budget announced a number of long-anticipated reforms to the not-for-profit sector in recognition of the substantial economic and social contribution it makes to Australian society. The WMRF Board is carefully following the new legislation from the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and preparing for new reporting guidelines. I have been deeply impressed by the passion, drive and creativity displayed by the members of the WMRF team as the Foundation embarks on a new strategic direction. Internal efforts to improve operational effectiveness have paid off and every single staff member is working towards the Foundation’s key goals. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the volunteers who make our work possible, for their selfless time and energy in manning the My Westmead kiosk, attending community events and organising fundraising activities. During the year we were saddened by the passing of one of our long term volunteers, Derek Howes, a former General Manager of Blacktown Hospital. We are forever thankful for all of Derek’s work to help raise awareness and funds for the care and medical research at Westmead. Our thoughts go out to his wife, Shirley, and to their extended family. We are touched daily by the generosity of our donors – both from our major partners including the Tenix Foundation, Sargent Pies Charitable Foundation, Arab Bank Australia and Baxter Healthcare Australia, to the small businesses on whose support we rely, and the thousands of individuals who give so freely to support Westmead. I thank you all. Annual Report 2012 / / 09 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 08 ERIC D’INDY With 1.9 million residents who speak more than 120 languages, Greater Western Sydney boasts Australia’s fastest growing and most richly diverse population. The gem at the heart of this vibrant community is Westmead, a world class campus where expert clinical care and cutting edge medical research serve the people of Western Sydney and impact health around Australia and internationally. Eric d’Indy Executive Director Here at Westmead Medical Research Foundation (WMRF), we see ourselves as the bridge between Westmead and the community. Each is of vital importance to the other. Everyone in Western Sydney will at some stage in their lives be touched by the work of Westmead. Equally, Westmead depends on the generous support of the community to ensure it provides the best possible clinical care and medical research. With the support of the community, we have enjoyed an incredibly successful year in which we have significantly increased our disbursements to our two beneficiaries, Westmead Hospital and the Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research. Since 2011, we have been pursuing a strategic blueprint which will see WMRF diversify its fundraising revenue in a more sustainable way and cement its relevance both within the Westmead campus as well as for the community of Western Sydney. The My Westmead campaign forms a major part of this new direction. Based in Western Sydney, My Westmead aims to engage the community in grassroots activity supporting Westmead as well as celebrating the cultural, economic and medical excellence found in this renowned health precinct. My Westmead’s visibility has grown this year. With a kiosk positioned at the food court in the Hospital, mobile and staff promotions, the My Westmead brand is becoming increasingly recognisable to the hospital’s 8,500 staff and the one million patients who pass through its doors each year. We have also worked hard to engage with the community at large through the My Westmead brand. In collaboration with local councils, we have had our direct marketing collateral inserted within 130,000 rates notices. We have also had a presence at a series of community events and our merchandise has been sold in shopping centres throughout Parramatta, The Hills and Holroyd. We have formed important strategic partnerships with Arab Bank Australia and formed a new community partnership with the GWS Giants. We are also engaging with generous small businesses throughout the area to support our many events. During the year the support of both the Ian Potter Foundation and the Thyne Reid Foundation, together with our existing supporters, enabled us to fund a new research laboratory and biobank that will allow scientists to move to the forefront of medicine, to find futuristic ways to repair defective genes and use cells to repair the body. These two new facilities will help to find new ways to treat leukaemia, diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Construction commenced on a new building that will provide a permanent home for these facilities and the majority of the medical research facilities that form part of the highly innovative Westmead Research Hub. This collaborative link between healthcare and medical research has been supported by many individuals and businesses in our community and we are extremely grateful for their kind and generous support. It is expected that the facilities will be opened during 2014. We have invested in a direct mail acquisition campaign, which has seen our active donor pool double from 1,600 to 3,300. We were proud to launch the Betty Schofield Society this year, which honours members of the community who have chosen to make a gift to us in the form of a bequest. In addition, we have improved our web platform to make it easier for people to donate online. It is important for us that our donors have a positive experience when they engage with us. We are moving from hosting traditional black tie dinners to supporting a series of fun community events, such as the My Westmead Ladies Night, attended by 500 local women, and third party events such as the BAPS walkathon with 400 walkers, driven by the Sikh community. We are also providing a series of seminars on important health issues as a service to our donors. I would like to offer my special thanks to the Board and my team, every member of which has been working passionately and energetically to ensure everything we do is in line with our strategic goals. With the community engaging well with My Westmead, and our strategic direction in mind, this year it became apparent we needed to rebrand and create a stronger brand link between My Westmead and WMRF. Evolved from the My Westmead heart symbol, we are proud to launch our new logo which focuses our message and our direction. Through the heart’s gem-like facets, we will tell the many untold stories of Westmead, of the discoveries and treatments I see here that are changing and saving the lives of many thousands of people. Our Board WMRF’s Board comprises senior professionals and leaders in finance, risk management, brand development, law, health, construction and public service as well as representatives of both our beneficiaries, the Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research and Westmead Hospital. Our Board members are passionate about our cause and their expertise, skills and connections strengthen our ability to meet our key strategic goals. Role and responsibilities of the Board The Board’s role is to govern Westmead Medical Research Foundation and includes: »» Establish WMRF’s long‐term strategic plans, objectives and direction, consistent with WMRF’s overall Objective »» Set short‐term objectives, including annual targets and KPIs, consistent with WMRF’s overall Objective »» Play an active role in the implementation of the fundraising strategy for WMRF »» Be an advocate for WMRF and for the outcomes that WMRF drives in its fundraising endeavours »» Ensure appropriate systems exist so that WMRF complies with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements and the Constitution, and that these systems are operating effectively »» Ensure appropriate risk management and internal control systems exist and are operating effectively »» Make decisions about the matters that the Board has reserved for its decision »» Review and approve financial and other reports to stakeholders »» Implement a process of accountability around relationships with stakeholders and support the Executive Director to develop and maintain good relationships with relevant stakeholders as required »» Review the performance of the Board, Board committees and individual directors. The Board has three key areas of focus: governance, fundraising and communication and advocacy. Committees - Finance and risk committee Provides an independent, objective review of the company’s key financial and operational controls and the effective management of risk. President Mr Patrick Alfred Wilde AM Vice President, Mr Joe Rizk, Managing Director, Arab Bank “There is probably not one of us alive today who doesn’t know someone or who is very closely involved with a family member who at some point will be the beneficiary of medical research. Supporting medical research is critical, everybody who does it in a small or large way is in some way helping themselves.” “Westmead is a place of comfort and trust where optimum care is provided, a place of great support to the community, the sick and their associated families. Everyone in some way has been touched by a loved one who has been ill and it is great to know that with our support, we can make a difference to many lives.” Mr Ken McKenzie Mr Brad Astill “Quality of life is critical to human beings generally. Both research and clinical care are key to gaining and sustaining this quality. They provide dignity and the capability to enjoy life that is so precious for all.” “Westmead has been a cornerstone of my career, from my time as a student, as a qualified practitioner, and now in my role managing the facility. I have made enduring friendships here and learnt much. Today Westmead is a key focus for the local community and is a major employer in the district.” Professor Jeremy Chapman OAM Professor Tony Cunningham AO »» Ken McKenzie, Treasurer (Chair) »» Kerrie Kelly »» Stephen Jenkins »» Ex-officio Patrick Wilde AM, President - Capital campaign cabinet committee Assists the Board in managing the Capital Campaign by leading and driving the campaign; determining and driving fundraising strategy; leveraging State and Federal government support from community funding; ensuring the fundraising target is met within the agreed timeframe; and assisting with networking opportunities to raise funds and the profile of WMRF. “Westmead is the engine room of Australian healthcare. It is a world class clinical facility treating a significant proportion of the Australian community.” “Westmead’s research and clinical excellence attracts the best doctors to Western Sydney, maintains excellence in clinical care, and pushes the frontiers of healthcare treatment and prevention.” Mr Eric d’Indy Mr Stephen Jenkins “It is very important for WMRF to educate the local community about the excellence in healthcare provided at Westmead, its world class research network, and to share stories of the many patients whose lives have been transformed. In this way, Westmead will be able to win the heart, wallet and mind of the community it serves.” “Westmead is a centre of excellence for medical care and research to help the people of Western Sydney. It is indicative of the creativeness and spirit of the people who live here.” »» Co-chair Mark Warren »» Co-chair Peter Hasko »» Stephen Jenkins »» Prof. Tony Cunningham AO, Executive Director of Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research »» Ex-officio Patrick Wilde AM, President Annual Report 2012 / / 011 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 010 BOARD and GOVERNANCE Ms Kerrie Kelly “Westmead provides quality medical care and is underpinned by skill, compassion and locality, as well as medical research which underpins our understanding of health and wellbeing, and provides hope and opportunity for new knowledge and new cures.” “Westmead is a beacon in the community, delivering critical research, treatment and care when we or someone we love needs it most. I am honoured to be able to contribute to such an important cause that impacts so many.” Mr Joe Khattar AM Mr Peter Hasko “The western suburbs of Sydney have become a thriving and successful community. The growing population will lead to an increased demand for medical assistance. Westmead Hospital provides a vital health service to the Western Sydney community, and WMRF assists in enabling Westmead Hospital to provide world leading medical care.” “There is a symbiotic relationship between medical research and medical care. The research provides medical care with the tools to fight diseases. What would medical care look like today without antibiotics and insulin…?” Ms Felicity Hudson Mr Alan Overton AM “Westmead provides critical, world class research into a range of medical conditions. It is this quality and range that I value as, in many cases, I know people personally impacted by these conditions. I appreciate how important the advances in medical science can be, how dedicated the doctors and scientists are and how important it is to continue to invest in this research over the long term.” “It’s great that Westmead offers these wonderful services to the people of Parramatta and Western Sydney. It serves those in medical need and also provides answers to people who are unsure what is causing their illness.” Mr Mark Warren Annual Report 2012 / / 013 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 012 Ms Daryl Karp OUR TEAM The team at Westmead Medical Research Foundation consists of dedicated fundraisers who bring a breadth of experience and passion for our cause. The team is committed to working together to make an impact that will benefit the lives of those in most need here in our community and around the world. Staff members “The ability to take medical research and translate it to patient care on the same campus means the people in the west of Sydney are receiving the very best and the most relevant healthcare in Australia.” Eric d’Indy - Executive Director Chris Bauer – Community Fundraising & Networks Co-ordinator Casey Evans – Marketing & Communications Manager Sarah Finch - Executive Assistant & Operations Co-ordinator Tracy Graca – Finance & Operations Assistant Joseph Herschel – Capital Campaign & Philanthropy Manager Shivani Jayasinghe – Partnerships Manager Marguerite Massaad - Community Assistant Marlene Nasr - Community Relations & Events Co-ordinator Susie Saba - Community Assistant Simon Swarbrick - Database & Marketing Manager Company secretary Sarah Finch Belinda Szafraniec - Community Programs Manager Volunteers Whether they are helping out around the office, fundraising at events, serving at the My Westmead kiosk or stuffing envelopes, generous volunteers are part of so much of what we do. We would like to express our gratitude to our lovely volunteers for their contribution to Westmead Medical Research Foundation through donating their time and skills to help us in our mission during 2011-12. Aline Claverie Maha Saba Anne Rizk Makhala Ayoub Annie Livingstone Mimi Masroua Carol Younis Pratapa Perera Doris Abraham Rachel Frangi Erin Hughes Rebecca Masroua Garfield Manual Rohit Bhuta Gordana Diaz Ronda Masroa Hounaida Younan Toni Saba Imelda Silva Tracey Lau Jennifer Hemsley Viviane Tobbaji Jessica Abraham Yolla Abraham Lenore Simons With more than 450 staff, the Institute is one of the largest medical research institutes in Australia. It conducts research into a wide range of diseases that affect both adults and children including cancer and leukaemia, infectious and immune diseases, liver and metabolic diseases, heart and respiratory disorders, mental health and vision disorders. The Institute is particularly recognised for the development of islet transplantation, which may one day enable people with type 1 diabetes to live without daily injections of insulin; for identifying the impact of macular degeneration; for discovering genes involved in melanoma and multiple sclerosis; discovering the principle underlying the first successful herpes simplex vaccine; and for developing the world’s first objective brain imaging tests for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. The support of research into clinical practices is vital in ensuring doctors and nurses at Westmead Hospital are at the forefront of providing patients with world-best practice and that costs are effectively managed. This network of researchers at Westmead is helping determine what health services are best value for money, how we should be maintaining our personal health, developing new therapies and tools to make procedures more effective, and working to understand the origin of disease. The research across the network spans dementia, brain injury, intensive care, surgery, emergency, rheumatology, oral health, neurology, renal transplantation, dermatology, population health, geriatric medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology and cancer. MAKING AN IMPACT - research This year, our funding assisted research at the Institute into: leukaemia, breast cancer, obesity and fatty liver disease, hepatitis C, schizophrenia, central and peripheral vision in older people, HIV immune boosters, neuropathic pain, muscle and jaw function, mental health and wellbeing in twins, ADHD, retinal structure, improving cataract surgery, cardiology and arrhythmia ablations, heart disease, anxiety, polycystic kidney disease, herpes simplex virus, sleep apnoea and research into chronic kidney disease. Our funding assisted research at the Hospital into: vascular biology, gallbladder disease, cardiology and neglected tropical diseases. This year we were able to fund the following grants To Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research: »» 9 senior researcher support grants for leaders in their fields »» 4 bridging grants to retain some of the brightest research scientists »» 2 research fellowships for developing researchers over a three year period »» 2 initiating grants to support outstanding young researchers »» 31 PhD student research grants »» $180,000 towards the cell sorter flow cytometry unit This year we were able to fund the following grants to Westmead Hospital: »» Surgery research scholarship »» Cell decloaking chamber for vascular biology »» 3 PhD student research grants Annual Report 2012 / / 015 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 014 Funding for medical research is a cornerstone of our work at WMRF – we raise funds so the researchers can concentrate on their valuable work and impact the lives of people in our local community, across Australia and internationally. We direct the generous funds donated by our donors to Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, a world leading medical research centre, and other leading researchers located on the Westmead campus. Making drugs more effective Breast cancer: and diagnosis of ADHD to treat hepatitis C understanding the increased risk The need The liver disease hepatitis C is Australia’s leading cause of liver cancer and failure, often requiring people to need liver transplants. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in women throughout the developed world, and will affect one in nine Australian women during their lifetime. The ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone are implicated in breast cancer development, and recent studies have shown that women who receive hormone replacement therapy containing progesterone are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common mental health condition in adolescents and children – but there has never been an objective measurement or test to diagnose the disorder. Instead, all doctors can routinely do is interview children and their parents or guardians (sometimes also their school teachers), and look at reports of their behaviour, which often leaves families questioning the diagnosis and prescription of medication for their child. A new range of antiviral drugs is set to transform the treatment of hepatitis C, but there is a concern that mutations in the virus will make the drugs less effective. Virus mutations lead to drug resistance. In the treatment of hepatitis B and HIV the mutations cause a significant problem, so doctors routinely test patients for resistance to guide treatment. Dr Dinny Graham is a recipient of the Westmead Medical Research Foundation Senior Research Support Grant 2012. The donor Supporting medical research is an important part of the Tenix Foundation’s work. This year, it has supported research into the underlying causes of mental illness and its impact on young people through providing a grant to WMRF that supports post-doctoral research fellow Dr Tracey Tsang from the Westmead Millennium Institute. “The funds we receive through the generosity of donors impact greatly on our research, it fundamentally allows us to continue our research,” says Dr Dinny Graham, senior researcher at the Westmead Millennium Institute’s Breast Cancer Research Group. “Funds are invested in a very efficient way to continue our cutting edge research at WMI - optimising the type of impact that you can have on health research outcomes.” “Grants help to improve the brilliant minds of scientists and foster their growth and development through education. Their work is also preventive as it addresses future health challenges in the community,” says Michael Lindsay, a Director of the Tenix Foundation. All in the family: work to stave off depression Children of people who have depression are three times more likely to develop the condition themselves – but researchers don’t understand what it is about their brain biology that makes this happen. The result Dr Tsang had noticed while researching obesity and metabolic problems in adolescents during her PhD that many of them also had ADHD, which was of primary concern to both families and children. The donation from the Tenix Foundation enables Dr Tsang to work full time as a senior researcher at Westmead Millennium Institute’s Brain Dynamics Centre, focusing on research into behavioural difficulties such as ADHD and making an impact on children and their families. She is coordinating a number of studies to improve the understanding of ADHD, its diagnosis and its treatment, by looking at a range of measures such as behaviour, symptoms, physiology, biology, genetics, cognitive performance, and response to ADHD treatments. Diagnosing the condition as well as any coexisting disorders accurately, and understanding differences in how young people are affected by different treatments, means management can be tailored to each child’s unique needs. “It is especially rewarding that the funds are committed to a focus on optimising the wellbeing of young people, when they are at one of the peak times for being at risk of mental health problems,” says Dr Tsang. We don’t clearly understand this increased risk, so Westmead Millennium Institute’s Breast Cancer Research Group is studying how progesterone affects the biology of normal breast cells. We don’t know how common these virus mutations are in untreated hepatitis C patients in Australia, or how the mutations will affect the success of drug therapy. Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research PhD candidate Dr Adrian Ong, who received one of the WMRF Initiating Grants this year, is studying these virus mutations in the population of Western Sydney. He hopes to develop a routine test to guide doctors in choosing appropriate anti‐viral drugs for their patients. One day, this work will mean drug treatment for hepatitis C will be more effective for people all over the world. “The Institute is a place where there is opportunity to make a difference through medical research – medical research offers a way of appreciating how our human body works through illness and health. Eventually we hope to relieve sickness in some way and donating to medical research allows us to perform this,” says Dr Ong. Dr Tracey Tsang (left) Brain Dynamics Centre Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research Recipient of the Westmead Medical Research Foundation Fellowship in Adolescent Wellbeing Dr Adrian Ong (above) Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research Recipient of the Westmead Medical Research Foundation Initiating Grant 2012 At the Westmead Millennium Institute’s Brain Dynamics Centre, The Family Depression Study aims to pick up the early signs of depression in children and siblings of people who suffer from the condition. “The aim of the project is to identify objective, brain based markers that can be used to detect early signs of depression,” says Westmead Millennium Institute PhD candidate Anna Watters, who is managing the study. “We know that some people are at a higher risk for depression than others, but little is known about how this potential is expressed in our bodies.” “We hope to be able to tailor interventions to identify people at risk and get in early and prevent the condition.” The study is looking at relatives from over 200 families and tests a range of markers in their genetic makeup, their brain and behaviour, as well as life experiences and their personality traits. The research will also help to identify what makes people resilient to depression by focusing on relatives who have not gone on to develop depression in a follow-up stage. “My hope is that my daughter and her children aren’t going to be affected in the way my family has by what happens. That would be a big load off my mind,” says Desley Hatfield, whose family is taking part in the study. Annual Report 2012 / / 017 Research to boost treatment MAKING AN IMPACT - care When someone you love is sick, you want them to have access to the best possible treatment and care – and so do we. By supporting a hospital that sees a million people through its doors each year, your dollar can have great impact. At Westmead Hospital, located in the centre of Greater Western Sydney, 8,500 staff provide specialist care to patients from Parramatta to Penrith, and from Perth to Canberra. The Hospital specialises in acute and sub-acute rehabilitation, including brain injuries; adult acute psychiatry; aged care; cancer; cardiology; cardiothoracic surgery; critical care; kidney and pancreas transplants; neonatal intensive care; neurology; neurosurgery; obstetrics and gynaecology; child, adolescent and family treatments; trauma; and oral health. This year we were able to fund the following equipment and services at Westmead Hospital: » » Contributions to Mootang Tarimi, Aboriginal Chronic Care program, providing improved research, treatment and care for diabetes and heart and kidney diseases in greater Western Sydney »» 4 neonatal transport beds »» 1 CTG monitor »» 8 portable blood pressure meters »» 24 foetal dopplers »» Jaundice meter »» 5 baby scales »» Billibed and 3 washable suits for babies with jaundice »» Blood and infusion warmer for new mums »» 7 amputee wheelchairs »» 10 stump supports for amputees »» 5 elevating leg rests »» 3 specialist tilt wheelchairs »» 8 wheelchair cushions »» E-Link Rehab hand therapy tool »» Electrical muscle stimulator »» Laser therapy unit »» Sewing machine for making slings and supports »» Microwave ablation machine for cancer treatment »» Gelpoint transanal access tools David McHattie The Emergency Department Westmead Hospital »» VNUS System to treat varicose veins »» Full body digital photography and dermoscopy system And more… Inspiration for our new brand came from Westmead’s location as the geographical centre-point of the greater Sydney region. The Hospital services people from a vast perimeter of Western Sydney suburbs, and the greater NSW region, whilst the research undertaken by scientists at Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research touches the lives of people from all over the world. In this sense Westmead is the centre of a multifaceted network for medical research, treatment, care and community support. These facets reinforce the ever-present links that Westmead has, and needs, with the community. This link is both vital and celebrated. Westmead is indeed a rare diamond or gem. The facets of our new heart symbol give us the opportunity to tell the many stories of Westmead, the patients, their families, the doctors, nurses, researchers – and the diverse community that it services. Annual Report 2012 / / 019 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 018 OUR NEW BRAND OT equipment boosts vital Margi’s day keeps on giving rehab for patients When their mother, Margi Doig, passed away from terminal cancer in 2006, so touched were her sons Ben and Matt by the care and compassion she had received at Westmead that they decided to meet on the golf course every year on her birthday with a group of friends to raise money for the Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit. Westmead’s busy Occupational Therapy department treats about 2,000 patients a month across more than 50 different clinical areas, helping people during the acute phase of their treatment so they will be able to get back to their occupational life roles they had before their illness or injury. Fast forward to 2012, and the Margi Doig Memorial Golf Day is a charity event attended by about 100 golfers each year which has raised a total of $62,000, distributed by WMRF to the Palliative Care Unit to meet the needs its doctors and nurses identify each year. Baby Ethan in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Westmead Hospital New transport systems give a smooth ride to tiny newborns The need Westmead Hospital welcomes 5,200 babies every year and has the largest and busiest newborn intensive care unit in NSW. Along with those born here, babies who are born prematurely or are suffering life threatening complications are flown to Westmead from across NSW. Transporting these critically ill babies safely is vital. The department’s existing transport system was 15 years old and nearing the end of its lifespan. The downtime was unacceptable, and it was impossible to transport more than one sick baby at the same time. “Transport is a highly risky time for any baby, and the smoother the system goes, the more we can minimise these risks,” says director of the Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Dr Mark Tracy. Critically ill babies who need surgery are transported along a special link corridor. Although only 400 metres, the disruption of moving these tiny babies can cause significant health problems. “There are not enough words, funds raised or actions that can show our appreciation to the doctors and nurses at Westmead Hospital,” says Ben’s girlfriend, Belinda. “Not every patient and family receives the happy ending they pray and hope for, but when a team provides the level of care we have experienced, all you can do is try to repay it in some way.” device, ventilator, oxygen and blood pressure monitoring go with them, meaning a minimum of disruption and a much safer and quicker ride. “We looked at the gaps in resources that we currently have in the department and drew up a wish list based on these gaps,” says department head, Carolyn Fozzard. “These systems have totally revolutionised how we do things – they’ve been incredibly successful and have reduced the time taken to move the babies by about half,” says Dr Tracy. “With the help of this equipment, we can enable independence for these patients.” The equipment included a sewing machine, donated by Bernina, to assist the department when making personalised slings and supports for the patients. Many members of the OT team are also sewers and realised some time ago that it was more cost effective to make arm slings themselves rather than purchasing commercially. Not only are the slings cheaper this way, they are designed to a perfect fit for the patient, which improves their recovery. Born at just 25 weeks, Ethan Elliott has already been transported for surgery twice to fix problems with his bowel and a hernia. A better treatment for painful legs For people who have severe varicose veins, life can be painful and debilitating. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to ulcers, bleeding and swelling of the legs. “Even with patients with many other complex conditions, it’s their ulcers they complain about the most,” says vascular surgeon Dr Tom Daly. “These beds are amazing,” says his father, Julian. “The more the team can focus on the well being of the baby mean babies just like Ethan have the best possible chance.” Treatment performed by public hospitals involves stripping of the varicose veins under general anaesthetic. But with contributions from generous donors, WMRF has been able to provide Westmead Hospital with a new VNUS system which can treat the veins using radio frequency ablation, a less invasive procedure performed during day surgery. The donor WMRF identified the Sargent’s Pies Charitable Foundation as a perfect fit. “Our support is all about children and we are about funding tangible initiatives, so providing this sort of equipment certainly suits the vision of our Foundation,” says the Sargent’s Pies National Sales and Marketing Manager, Karl Fretwell. The result With a generous donation from the Sargent’s Pies Charitable Foundation, the newborn intensive care unit was provided with four new neonatal transport systems. The systems have been adapted so that the incubators can be plugged in directly without having to move the babies. Their breathing This year WMRF funded a variety of occupational therapy resources, including wheelchairs, stump supports, elevating leg rests and an electrical muscle stimulator. (left) Karl Fretwell and Brian Andrews from the Sargent’s Pies Charitable Foundation with Dr Mark Tracy, Director of the Newborn Intensive Care Unit. “Patients’ varicose veins are often neglected by the public system, but by offering this service we can ensure they are getting appropriate treatment,” says Dr Daly. (above right) Patient Paul Devine awaits his treatment at the Occupational Therapy department For Mrs Judith Teale, 75, the day surgery procedure to fix her problematic varicose veins using the VNUS system was simple and effective. “The procedure under local anaesthetic went smoothly and I’ve had no more trouble or pain from that part of my leg since,” she says. Annual Report 2012 / / 021 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 020 In loving memory: Annual Report 2012 / / 023 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 022 MY WESTMEAD Westmead Medical Research Foundation Volunteer, Aline Claverie A direct mail appeal to 133,000 Sydney households 9,500 people in community groups Western Sydney has good reason to feel proud of the centre of medical excellence in its midst at Westmead. have listened presentation More than 4,000 A key fundraising arm of WMRF, My Westmead aims to involve all of Western Sydney in sharing the stories and supporting the work of Westmead. people exposed to My Westmead messaging You can get involved in the My Westmead program by: sent with rate notices »» Attending an event into the homes of 130,000 »» Hosting your own fundraising event the My Westmead brand in local shopping centres »» Purchasing My Westmead merchandise »» Placing a coin box at your business counter More than 100,000 »» Partnering with us to sponsor the campaign or an event people exposed »» Signing up for our newsletter 4,000 passers-by »» Volunteering with us daily at the My »» Becoming a regular donor Westmead kiosk »» Making a donation If you live in Western Sydney, chances are that one day you will be benefitted personally by the work done at Westmead. My Westmead gives you the chance to support a facility that supports you when you need it most. Dr Shalinder Samra, The Emergency Department, Westmead Hospital in Westmead Hospital Community giving through My Westmead »» The BAPS walkathon, with more than 400 community members raising money for research and care » » The Margi Doig Golf Day, in its fifth year, raising money for the Palliative Care Unit at Westmead Hospital »» Over 500 guests attended the My Westmead Ladies Night Staff engagement people in Western Sydney »» Asking for a presentation for your community group or club But the campaign is about more than that. My Westmead aims to tell our story: the story of Westmead and of the larger community of Western Sydney, of which we should all be proud. A growing number of diverse and interesting third party events have been held to raise funds for the My Westmead program, including: to a community My Westmead gives the community the chance to give back by celebrating and supporting healthcare and research that benefits us all. My Westmead is making a positive difference to thousands of lives by raising urgently needed funds to purchase new medical equipment and fund vital research for Westmead Hospital and Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research. » » Hundreds of staff from Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research and Westmead Hospital attended the My Westmead Christmas Carnival and the My Westmead Winter Ball events to My Westmead Working together with at community the business community festivals »» Partnerships with Arab Bank and the Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL team »» Charity of Choice for the Western Sydney Business Connection for 2011 »» Over 40 generous local businesses sponsored events and donated in-kind support WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 024 Westmead Millennium Institute’s new building “This building is significant because it brings all of the Institute’s staff together. It brings us all into a state of the art building, with all the modern research facilities to drive forward - the new building will provide space for remarkable growth and productivity,” As part of our vision of an integrated research environment on the Westmead campus, our grants are focused on fostering the development of medical research that improves the health of our community for generations, both locally and globally. Our generous supporters have raised over $8 million towards the overall project cost of a new building for the Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research (WMIMR), with additional grants to follow during 2012/2013. After many years of careful planning, construction has now started on the building. It’s a tangible outcome of the dedicated fundraising that has gone into this project – and, more importantly, marks the significance of what’s to come. Located on the Westmead Hospital campus, the building is uniquely situated in the midst of the Westmead Research Hub, which comprises The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, the Children’s Medical Research Institute and the Kids Research Institute. Most of the Hub’s expensive high technology equipment and facilities will be housed in the new WMIMR building and shared by all 900 researchers on campus. When it’s completed in early 2014, the landmark building will become one of Australia’s leading medical research centres. It will create capacity to help further collaboration, create greater partnerships and ensure an ongoing commitment to medical research. The nine storey medical research facility will include specialised laboratories and support areas. It will link medical researchers working in diseases impacting both children and adults. This will help to enable these researchers to find further ways to prevent and treat breast and ovarian cancers, melanoma, leukaemia, heart disease, diabetes, ADHD, schizophrenia, depression, PROFESSOR TONY CUNNINGHAM AO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WESTMEAD MILLENNIUM INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH viruses and other major infections, and further diseases that impact the eyes, liver, lungs, kidneys and pancreas. The research centres at the WMIMR are led by or predominantly staffed by researchers who are also clinicians at Westmead Hospital. The strong linkages between the Institute and the Hospital ensure that discoveries in the laboratory are quickly translated into practical outcomes for the community. Some of our funding has been allocated towards facilities such as a Cell and DNA Biobank, which, with a generous grant from the Thyne Reid Foundation, enables the creation of a state-ofthe-art computerised cross discipline repository to support the discovery of genes for research into major diseases. The Ian Potter Foundation announced news of a $500,000 grant towards a new Human Applications Research Laboratory. When complete, this facility will be used by medical researchers to find new ways to treat leukaemia, diabetes, heart disease and cancer. For example, the new laboratory will equip the Westmead Millennium Institute to further develop highly innovative and progressive stem cell therapy that will help address two of the leading causes of heart disease, arrhythmia and sudden heart failure. With most of the funding secured to complete the building project on time and within budget, the focus during the current financial year is on securing funding for the fit out and completion. Architect’s impression of the new Westmead Millennium Institute’s new building Annual Report 2012 / / 027 Annual Report 2012 / / 029 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 028 Strategic goals and objectives Financial Summary Income and expenditure #1. Grow and improve our fundraising activities 2012 through a leading brand and program #2. Continually develop and improve on our brand and communications. Firmly establish WMRF as a ‘charity of choice’ within the community serviced by the Westmead campus #3. 2011 Total cost of fundraising and donations 536,292 666,842 Gross income from fundraising and donations 3,514,492 2,629,389 Net Income 2,978,200 1,962,547 Bequests 15,140 166,704 Coin Boxes 36,494 141,231 Community & Clubs 511,501 553,940 Corporate 685,943 592,196 Events 226,461 227,023 Mass Marketing 34,532 124,760 Capital 1,239,490 -118,007 Major Gifts 228,639 224,900 Other Donations - 49,800 Total 2,978,200 1,962,547 Disbursements 3,188,996 1,665,846 Fundraising activities Westmead Medical Research Foundation has a diverse fundraising portfolio comprised of many ways an individual, business or community group can get involved and donate. As an independent fundraising body, it is this support we rely on almost entirely. Westmead Medical Research Foundation does not receive any government funding. Grow our reach through strategic partnerships and allianceS #4. Engage effectively with key stakeholders #5. Improve our operational effectiveness and maximise the productivity and collaboration within the WMRF team Allocations As an organisation, we believe everyone who is sick deserves access to the best possible treatment and care. To help make this possible, we recognise the health problems Australians are facing and search for the best way to help. Our fundraising is directed to medical research, grants, scholarships and fellowships, new equipment and health services for Westmead Hospital and Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research (WMIMR), giving our donor dollar local, regional, national and global impact. This year also included allocations for the new WMIMR building. Research Grants, Scholarships & Fellowships HOW THE MONEY HELPED Grants, Scholarships & Fellowships One of the new specialist tilt wheelchairs purchased by the Foundation for the Occupational Therapy department, Westmead Hospital Equipment Health Services WMIMR Building $869,622 (27.3%) $639,172 (20%) WMIMR Building $348,532 (10.9%) $1,023,033 (32.1%) Research $308,637 (9.7%) Total $3,188,996 Health Services Equipment Annual Report 2012 / / 031 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 030 A SPECIAL THANKS WMRF would like to thank and acknowledge the following donors and supporters, who, throughout the year, made valued contributions to our work at the Foundation. Some on this list have made extremely generous donations and others have supported us with in-kind donations or opened their networks for the Foundation’s benefit. It is only with the support of individuals, the business community, community groups and philanthropic leaders that we can keep striving for and providing the community with access to the best possible treatment and care. Amgen Australia Ms Helen Coolican-Stern and family Mrs Annie Livingstone Arab Bank Australia Ms Judith Cornell AM Mr Paul Maher Australian Cancer Research Foundation Mr Ben Doig Ms Chyrel Madigan Baxter Healthcare Mr Matt & Mrs Kelli Doig Mr Troy McPhee Janssen-Cilag Pty Limited Mr Peter Dunphy Ms Judith Meppem PSM Lindsay Bennelong Developments Mr John Elvy Ms Anne Morphett Paul Ainsworth Family Foundation Ms Sandra Felli Mr Paul Murnane Presida Constructions Prof. John Fletcher Mr Stephen & Mrs Barbara Penfold Sargents Pies Charitable Foundation The Hon. Patricia Forsythe Ms Kerry Schott Tenix Foundation Mrs Adriana & Mr Robert Gardos Mr Bechara Shamieh The Chronican Foundation Mr Dave Gerardis Ms Alison Sievwright The Ian Potter Foundation Mrs Verna Gibson Mr Wayne Webster The Macquarie Group Foundation Ms Belinda Gunning Mr Simon Wilde Thyne Reid Foundation Mr Steve Henry Mr Patrick Wilde AM Ms Fiona Archer The Late Mr Derek Howes & Mrs Shirley Howes Clr. Ernest Wong Mr Bob Bothwell Mr David Knowles Ms Joy Yarrard Mr Stuart Campbell Mr Robert & Mrs Carole Lane Mr Alan Zammit AM Mr Adam Cawley Mr Andrew Leece Ms Lisa Chung Mr Robert Leece AM Annual Report 2012 / / 033 WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 032 Members LIFE BENEFACTORS BENEFACTORS Estates Corporates and licensed clubs Corporates and licensed clubs Estate of the Late Ismail Issa Nati Bros Roses Pty Ltd Arab Bank Australia Limited Estate of the Late Geoffrey Read Parramatta Leagues Club Limited Blacktown Workers Club Limited Estate of the Late Gladys Maude Smith Yum! Restaurants International Pty Ltd Myer Community Fund Community groups and schools Rooty Hill RSL Club Ltd Kids West Sydney Kitchen Centre Maronite Youth Organisation Wentworthville Leagues Club Ltd Ronald McDonald House Charities Community groups Rotary Club of Holroyd Associazione Abruzzesi Del NSW Sovereign Order of St John of Jerusalem Rotary Club of Parramatta United In Hope Westmead Hospital Arts Society Westmead Hospital Staff Specialists’ Association Individuals Individuals Mr Paul & Mrs Val Ainsworth Mr Robert & Mrs Pam Bothwell Professor John Fletcher Mr Patrick Kilkeary Mrs Shirley Howes and the late Mr Derek Howes Mr John Leece OAM & Mrs Anne Leece Mr Stephen & Mrs Barbara Penfold Peter Lloyd’s Family Trust and foundations Mrs Patricia Sorensen Tenix Foundation Mr James Wakim Estates Mrs Jane Wilde Estate of the Late Mrs Rae Roy Mr Patrick Wilde AM Trusts and foundations Australian Cancer Research Foundation Cecilia Kilkeary Foundation Paul Ainsworth Family Foundation Estates Estate of the Late Mrs Beryl Carrett Estate of the Late Mr John & Mrs Beatrice Croffey Estate of the Late Mr Malcolm & Mrs May Perkin Estate of the Late Miss Betty Schofield OAM GOVERNORS Corporates and licensed clubs Baxter Healthcare Pty Ltd ClubsNSW Guildford Rugby League Football & Recreation Club Limited Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia Westpac Banking Corporation Community groups and schools Rotary Club of Carlingford Individuals Mr Terry Fern Mrs Rose Gibb Mrs Ann M Michaelis Mr Kim Williams AM FELLOWS Corporates and licensed clubs Allergan Australia Pty Ltd Australian Hotels’ Association (NSW) BT Funds Management Ltd Dick Smith Investments Pty Ltd GlaxoSmithKline Westmead Medical Research Foundation Volunteer, Garfield Manual Mayne Pharma Merrylands RSL Club Ltd Community groups and schools 32 District Masonic Association Club Marconi Ladies Auxiliary Cumberland Orchid Circle Inc Granville Community Group Inc Lions Club of Carlingford-Dundas Monday Craft Group Rotary Club of Blacktown City Mr John Williams Northmead Women’s Bowlers Club Dr Paul Gaudry Mr Mal & Mrs Kara Wood Pennant Hills High School Professor David Harris Trusts and foundations Rotary International Miss Genevieve James Australian Huntington’s Disease Variety The Children’s Charity Miss Monica James Association of NSW Westmead Medical Staff Council Professor Rick Kefford AM Individuals Professor Jerry Koutts Ms Violet Banh Mrs Robin Lawrence Hon Bronwyn Bishop, MP Dr Peter Loder Mr Jeffrey & Mrs Pamela Bremmell Dr Ivan Lorentz Mr Christopher Cantwell Professor Paul Mitchell Emeritus Prof Peter Castaldi AO Dr Yugan Mudaliar Professor Jeremy Chapman OAM Dr Brian Nankivell Dr Phillip Cocks Professor Philip O’Connell Dr Roslyn Crampton Mr Walter Ragg Dr Grahame Ctercteko Ms Aruna Rangaraj Professor Tony Cunningham AO Ms Mary Shackman Associate Prof Nick Dorsch Professor Tania Sorrell Professor CJ & Mrs AM Eastman AM Mr E Thomas AM Mrs Meagan & Mr Jason Elias Mrs Yolla Wakim Mr Roger and Mrs Deborah Eaton Trusts and foundations Mrs Rosslyn Finn The Wenkart Foundation Rotary Club of Burwood COMPANIONS Wentworth Quilters Inc Corporates and licensed clubs Individuals B Braun Australia Pty Ltd Mr Fred Bolling AM & Mrs Sue Bolling BOC Gases Australia Ltd Mrs Carol Bosnjak Buspak Advertising Group Pty Ltd Mr & Mrs Geoffrey Buwalda Camsons Pty Ltd Mr Leonard Clayphan Coca-Cola Amatil Ltd Mr Ray & Mrs Vina Coleman Commonwealth Bank Australia Mr & Mrs Phillip Downing Hanson Precast Mr & Mrs Anthony Ko Revesby Workers’ Club Ltd Mr & Mrs George Norton Sanofi-aventis australia pty limited Emeritus Assoc Prof Robert Osborn The Australian Women’s Weekly Mr Vincent Pang Timberland Property Holdings Mr Michael de Thame Community groups and schools Mr Godfrey van der Linden Harb Charity Association Inc WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION / / 034 How you can help We rely almost entirely on your generosity. Whether you give your time, your skills, or your financial support, it will be gratefully received and directed to the area of most pressing need. If you are part of a business or a community group, perhaps there’s a way we can support you to leverage your involvement and achieve a bigger and better outcome. It is our goal to provide you with a variety of ways to support and get involved: attend an event, place a coin box at your business counter, become a regular donor, sign up for our newsletter, volunteer with us, attend a community education seminar, hold your own fundraising event, donate via pre-tax workplace giving, leave a lasting gift in your Will, or simply donate online or over the phone. For more information: visit our website at wmrf.org.au call us on 02 8836 4000 email us at [email protected] write to us at PO Box 74 Westmead NSW 2145 For more than 40 years, Betty Schofield OAM cared for her community. As a Matron, she knew about the dual importance of both caring for patients and medical research, and her passion for fundraising continued after her death when she included WMRF in her Will. This year, in Betty’s honour, we have launched the Betty Schofield Society to make it easier for you to make an enduring contribution in the form of a bequest. No matter how big or small, making a contribution in your Will can change the lives of many through the work of Westmead. For more information, please call (02) 8836 4000, email [email protected] or visit our website at www.wmrf.org.au/donate/ leave-a-bequest ABN 89 050 329 925 CFN 161 80 W:wmrf.org.au T: +61 2 8836 4000 F: +61 2 9635 4466 E:[email protected] P: PO Box 74 Westmead NSW 2145 A: Level 3, Unit 33/163-171 Hawkesbury Road Westmead NSW 2145