Joining forces to tackle leukaemia

HMAS Cerberus recently welcomed charity organisation Tackling Leukaemia on board during the annual Navy versus Victoria Police rugby match, to spread awareness about how everyday Australians can help combat the insidious illness. 

Dubbed ‘Navy Tackles Leukaemia’, the inaugural partnership gave the Tackling Leukaemia team an opportunity to promote Stem Cell Donors Australia – formerly the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry – and explain the importance of closing the gap by encouraging Pasifika and First Nations populations to register. 

Leukaemia is a form of blood cancer, and typical treatment involves radiation and/or chemotherapy followed by the introduction of donor stem cells into the patient’s body. 

The compatibility of the stem cells with the patient is critical. Sadly, as members of the Pasifika and First Nations groups have unique DNA blood types, stem cells from non-Pasifika and First Nations donors typically do not provide a suitable match.

Led by Australian Army veteran Colonel (retd) Kevin Maloney, Tackling Leukaemia is a grass roots organisation that aims to increase the number of committed stem cell donors on the national registry in Australia, with particular focus on the Pasifika and First Nations populations. 

Opportunities like ‘Navy Tackles Leukaemia’ form a critical part of this mission.

“With over 50 individuals swabbed and many more who have signed up for swab kits from the registry, the day was a resounding success,” Colonel Maloney said. 

“The mix of ages, genders and ethnicities illustrates the inclusivity of the Australian Defence Force and helps increase the chances of compatibility for patients.” 

Executive Officer Cerberus Commander Jason Grivas complimented his team’s efforts on the day. 

“I’m absolutely thrilled that it all went well for Tackling Leukaemia and my thanks go to our team who helped make it such a success,” Commander Grivas said. 

“Partnerships like these just make sense. As with the annual Defence Blood Drive, Royal Australian Navy personnel are always looking to support their communities.” 

For Colonel Maloney, the impact of the day cannot be overstated. 

“HMAS Cerberus’ contribution to boosting potential volunteers on the registry may contribute to the saving of many lives – and that is a fact.”