Yesterday at Parliament House, Live Life Foundation AU proudly hosted a powerful awareness event, bringing together leaders across the political spectrum to highlight the urgent need for a dedicated gene therapy ward at The Royal Children’s Hospital.
We were honoured and deeply grateful to welcome Premier Jacinta Allan and Leader of the Opposition Brad Battin, whose presence reflected a bipartisan commitment to this cause, and to children who cannot fight for themselves.
A heartfelt thank you too, to David Southwick MP (Caulfield) and Nathan Lambert MP (Reservoir and Parliamentary Secretary for Children), who co-hosted the event. Nathan’s deeply moving reflections, shared alongside his wife and their beautiful daughter, Hannah (aged 3), reminded us all why this ward matters so profoundly.
We also acknowledged the incredible contribution of Associate Professor Andrew Kornberg, who joined his longtime friend and Live Life Foundation Founder, Perry Sambor, to reflect on his epic solo journey around Australia’s coastline – FlyForTheKids – raising awareness and critical funds for the new gene therapy ward. His commitment is nothing short of extraordinary.
As revolutionary gene therapies continue to emerge, capable of curing some of the most devastating childhood diseases – this ward is no longer a luxury; it is an essential, life-saving necessity. Live Life Foundation AU is committed to raising funds for a dedicated ward where children with rare and life-threatening conditions can access these groundbreaking treatments.
To date, $2.8 million of the $4.5 million goal has been raised. With continued support – both philanthropic and political – we will make this vision a reality.
This ward will save lives.
It will set a national precedent for hospitals across Australia.
It must happen – not soon – now.
Our deepest thanks to Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas MP, Shadow Health Minister Georgie Crozier MP, Annabelle Cleeland MP (and her daughter!), and all the Members of Parliament who so generously gave their time and support. Together, we are building a legacy of hope for future generations of children and families across Australia.