Pictured: John and Sue Mearns
It was during a time of grief that John Mearns was inspired to make a difference.
Ten years ago, his late wife Jenny passed away after a 16-year battle with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.
Mr Mearns’ experience of caring for a loved one with a terminal disease gave him a different perspective on the world, prompting a desire to do something meaningful. He decided to become actively involved in research and started looking for an opportunity that would make an impact now and into the future.
Having heard about the work being done by Telethon Kids Institute on a TV advertisement, in the early 2000s he became involved in the Vaccine Trials Group (VTG).
“It was during those years I felt the need for a better world, and after seeing the advertisement on TV about vaccine trials I decided to help by way of volunteering,” Mr Mearns said.
Led by Professor Peter Richmond, the VTG was established in 2000 to provide a coordinated approach to the development, delivery, assessment, and promotion of vaccines and treatments for infectious disease and allergy.
After being involved in the VTG for a number of years and seeing firsthand the importance and impact of the Institute’s work, Mr Mearns has recently made the decision to leave a gift in his Will to support this work.
“I have been so fortunate to work alongside Professor Peter Richmond and his wonderful team for several years, which has given me a truly unique opportunity to see the value of this work firsthand,” he said.
My beautiful wife Sue and I have now been given an opportunity to share a gift that will further this work, which is easing pain and suffering – not only here in WA but potentially around the world.
The VTG is just one example of transformational change happening at Telethon Kids Institute that is driving advocacy and empowering action to ensure all kids lead happy, healthy lives.
What we do today in medical research will change the lives of generations to come. At Telethon Kids Institute, generous supporters such as the Mearns are helping to secure that future by leaving a gift in their Will.
For an obligation-free conversation to learn more about how your gift can create a lasting impact, please contact:
Gifts in Wills Officer
Kirren Fullagar
T | +61 8 6319 1444
E | kirren.fullagar@telethonkids.org.au
First published Wednesday 10 January 2024.
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About Telethon Kids Institute
Telethon Kids Institute is one of the largest and most successful medical research institutes in Australia. We've created a bold blueprint that brings together community, researchers, practitioners, policy makers and funders, who share our vision to improve the health and wellbeing of children through excellence in research.
The Institute is headed by leading paediatrician and infectious diseases expert Professor Jonathan Carapetis, with Founding Director Professor Fiona Stanley now Patron.
Telethon Kids is independent and not-for-profit. The majority of funding comes from our success in winning national and international competitive research grants. We also receive significant philanthropic support from corporate Australia and the community.
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