Twilight at Eden Gardens: A/Prof Claire Wakefield presents at CCNSW event
Published on the 11 December 2015
In late November our Program Leader, A/Prof Claire Wakefield, was invited to give a talk at a Cancer Council NSW (CCNSW) event.
The event was held at Eden Gardens in Macquarie Park, a tranquil garden and community hub which houses stunning garden havens such as the Daffodil Garden, opened by Eden Gardens and CCNSW in 2013. The Daffodil Garden is home to a memorial Wall of Honour, where plaques are displayed in recognition of families’ generous donations.
The evening began with an introductory talk from CCNSW’s CEO, Jim L’Estrange (pictured left). Jim spoke passionately about the research that the CCNSW carries out, thanked important benefactors and all attendees for their presence during the evening. Following on from his talk, Jim introduced a family who had been directly affected by cancer. This family gave a powerful firsthand account of their battle with childhood ALL, reminding all attendees of why research is so vital in the fight against childhood cancer.
Next up was Claire (pictured right), who presented an inspiring talk about the current landscape of childhood cancer. In her talk, Claire highlighted the need for further research on the psycho-social implications of childhood cancer on the developing child, family members and importantly those she called the “ultimate survivors” – those who have lost a child to cancer. Claire also introduced some of the important areas of research currently being explored by our team at the Behavioural Sciences Unit, as well as outlining our research plans for 2016 and into the future.
Acapella choir 'Soulfood' performing in the amphitheatre
Following the talks, the crowd was treated to the sounds of the talented Sydney-based acapella choir - Soulfood, who filled the intimate space of the garden amphitheatre with music.
Ultimately the evening was a great success… even when interrupted by the local wildlife!