A Morning of Connection, Insight and Accelerating Change

Our recent Brainy Breakfast brought together an incredible community, united by a shared commitment to accelerating change for children with brain cancer.

We were so grateful to share the room with families impacted by brain cancer, alongside clinicians, researchers, donors, igniters, corporate partners, sponsors and supporters. It is this collective commitment that continues to drive meaningful progress — and it is because of this community that the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation can continue to dream big and turn ambition into action, working towards better treatments and ultimately a cure for paediatric brain cancer.

A powerful moment of connection

A highlight of the morning was a moving performance from Music Matters grant recipient, Mia Karambelas.

At just 17 years old, Mia has turned to music as a source of strength and expression following her diagnosis of a non-germinomatous germ cell tumour. Accompanied by RCD Foundation Registered Music Therapist, Megan Cotter, Mia’s rendition of You Say by Lauren Daigle was a powerful reminder of the role creativity and support can play throughout a cancer journey.

Perspectives on accelerating change

The morning also featured a thoughtful and engaging panel discussion, expertly facilitated by RCD Foundation Board member Allison Blahna.

We were honoured to hear from Legacy Ambassador Tash Waters, who shared her lived experience following her son Billy’s journey with brain cancer; Professor David Eisenstat from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, who spoke to the impact of RCD-funded research; and Brain Trust member Anton Gaudry (Give52), who reflected on his role as a major donor.

Each perspective reinforced what it takes to accelerate change — collaboration, commitment, and a shared belief that better outcomes are possible.

Looking ahead

For those who have already donated, or expressed interest in supporting our work, thank you. Your generosity plays a critical role in advancing research and improving outcomes for children and families facing brain cancer.

If you would like to learn more about how you can be involved — including joining our Aeternum Fortis Society — we would love to hear from you.

Together, we are accelerating change

Events like the Brainy Breakfast are a powerful reminder that progress is driven not by any one individual, but by a community working together.

Together, we are accelerating change — and moving closer to a future where every child with brain cancer has access to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.