Chairmans Update | May 2026

Dear Brainchild Community,

Your ongoing generosity allows us to continue our vital work supporting children and families across Australia impacted by brain and spinal cord cancer.

Since our last Gala, at least 400 children in Australia have been diagnosed with brain or spinal cord cancer. Sadly, brain cancer remains one of the leading causes of death and lifelong disability for children in our country, often bringing significant financial and social challenges for families.

Despite the current cost-of-living challenges, Brainchild Foundation has remained steadfast in providing financial assistance to every child and family seeking help. As one of the few dedicated children’s brain cancer charities in Australia, we deliver cost of living support during diagnosis and treatment, and, when needed, help cover funeral expenses. Our Better Tomorrow’s program continues to offer tutoring, rehabilitation, vocational training, and practical learning aids to young survivors as they step into their futures.

We’re also proud of our ongoing commitment to research. The Martin Wood Brainchild Fellowship at the University of Queensland was established to advance understanding and treatment of brain cancer. In 2024, Dr Marija Kiska from the Wainwright Laboratory, Frazer Institute, received this fellowship, which provides $300,000 over three years to support her important work.

In partnership with the Children’s Brain Cancer Centre and Queensland University of Technology, we’ve launched a new post-therapy survivorship pathway—the Better Tomorrows Program—at Queensland Children’s Hospital. This initiative connects survivors with essential health and community services tailored to their needs.

None of these achievements would be possible without you.

On behalf of everyone at Brainchild, thank you for your continued support.

With heartfelt thanks,
Dr Timothy Hassall
Chair, Brainchild Foundation