Thank you for saving lives

Your support has helped scientists from HRI develop a world-first alternative to heart transplants, using “mini-hearts” and a bioprinter. The lab-created tissue forms a patch, like a band aid, to replace or repair damaged areas of the heart. Lead researcher Dr Carmine Gentile says it is hoped that once the breakthrough is successfully tested in clinical trials, it will save the lives of the thousands of Australians waiting for a heart transplant. The breakthrough has the potential too to save millions of lives globally.

Your support has helped fund a three-year world-first study that confirmed a natural chemical found in broccoli can reduce the formation of harmful blood clots that can in some instances lead to stroke, as well as improve the performance of clot-busting drugs afterwards. Stroke is one of the five leading causes of death in Australia, claiming 23 lives every day. “We are very excited at having isolated a natural compound that may have huge beneficial effects,” said lead researcher Dr Xuyu (Johnny) Liu.

Every day, eight babies are born with congenital heart disease (CHD) in Australia. Some are born with just half a heart – and if they survive, they suffer complex health problems and lead a life of uncertainty about their future. Your support helped us launch our world-first exercise trial for CHD patients, led by Assoc Prof Rachael Cordina and Dr Derek Tran. The study is already seeing positive results, with participants reporting increased energy, reduced anxiety and an improved quality of life.