Australians have shown how strongly they support medical research by donating more than $1.5 million in this year’s Jeans for Genes campaign so far – in the most difficult of times.
Many areas of Australia were locked down due to the pandemic on Jeans for Genes Day - on Friday 6th August - but that didn’t dull the community’s enthusiasm.
Most people had to remain home to stay safe, but we saw businesses having Bake-it-Blue morning teas over Zoom, TV presenters on air dancing in denim, police dropping by to show their support of children who were fundraising, kids selling their artwork, and whole regional communities turning their towns blue – it really was an impressive effort!
It was especially heartening for the scientists of Children’s Medical Research Institute who can’t all be in their labs right now. CMRI Director, Professor Roger Reddel, said the pandemic had really brought home to Australians why research is so important.
"For many people, the experience of living through a pandemic during the last 18 months has really opened their eyes to the power of research to change the world,’’ Professor Reddel said.
“It was so encouraging for our researchers to see Australians everywhere supporting us, especially during such tough times, and the faith that people have in our work.’’
Professor Reddel thanked everyone who took part, including children paying $2 to wear jeans and major Australian corporations who also gave generously.
“Thank you for improving the health of future generations of Australians, and for helping children living with serious genetic diseases who urgently need treatments to be developed. I know the parents of children living with these conditions are immensely grateful for your support and the hope it gives them for a better future.’’