William Donald Nash Brain Tumour Research Fellowship
Fellowship Awarded for the First Time
Research into two promising brain tumour therapies will start in Montreal this summer thanks to the inaugural awarding of the William Donald Nash Brain Tumour Research Fellowship by Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Dr. Tommy Alain of McGill University was awarded the two-year fellowship for his proposed research aiming to further the understanding of using two new virus-based treatments to enhance the outcomes of brain tumour patients.
The Story of the Fellowship
William Donald Nash
Supporting research into the potential causes of and cures for brain tumours is often great motivation for patients and families to get involved, to donate funds or time or to raise awareness about brain tumours. For William “Bill” Nash, a dairy farmer from Ingersoll, Ontario who was diagnosed with a brain tumour 1992, this was particularly true. Bill was so committed to advancing research that he committed a portion of his future estate to the goal of a fellowship program targeting brain research.
Sadly Bill passed away in 2007. According to Bill’s cousin Vince Nash, "Bill certainly wanted a cure for brain tumours to be discovered and he understood the importance of research and youth mentorship to that goal." Bill’s support for young people extended to the employment he offered on his dairy farm. Because of this specific interest in involving young people, the family worked to ensure that Bill’s gift included a learning aspect and also paid homage to the medical care he received. Vince notes, “Bill had a sincere appreciation for his caregivers and doctors who helped him through his journey with his brain tumour."
Launched in August 2009, this Fellowship isoffered to help us with our vision to find the cause of and cure for brain tumours while improving the quality of life for those we serve. It is also offered in recognition of the critical need for increased focus on brain tumour research.The Fellowship encourages and enables young clinicians and scientists to enter the field of brain tumour research and will accelerate studies leading to a cure for brain tumours.
The Fellowship runs for two years and includes annual funds, to cover salary and lab expenses, of $50,000. The current fellow, Dr. Tommy Alain's term starts July 1, 2010 and runs for two years. A new candidate will be chosen every two years.
For more information about the Fellowship, please contact Sue Ruypers at sruypers@braintumour.ca or 1 800 265 5106 ext 240.
Pictured left to right are: Dr. Joseph Megeysi, Chair, Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada; Phyllis Retty Chair of the Research Committee; Vince and Moira Nash; and Joyce Brown
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À 2003 Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada 1.800.265.5106
Charitable Registration #BN118816339RR0001 |