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TOWARDS
ZERO
January 2024
FROM THE LAB
WITH HOPE
NBCF-FUNDED PROJECT MARKS A MILESTONE IN TRIPLE NEGATIVE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH 
- NBCF-funded researcher,
Associate Professor Tatyana Chtanova
In the pursuit of Zero Deaths from breast cancer, a recent pre-clinical study, led by NBCF-funded researcher Associate Professor Tatyana Chtanova, highlights a promising avenue in breast cancer immunotherapy.
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer with limited targeted treatment options, has a high risk of returning after treatment and poor survival outcomes. Like many other breast cancers, TNBC ‘hides’ from the immune system preventing it from recognising and destroying the tumour.
NBCF-funded researcher, A/Prof Chtanova, has shown that an injection of ‘inactivated’ bacteria (termed microbial therapy) directly into the tumour can increase anti-tumour responses by causing specialised immune cells called neutrophils to change from pro-cancer cells to cancer destroying cells. These ‘activated’ neutrophils can also release signals to attract other immune cells that can kill the tumour.
A/Prof Chtanova and colleagues also showed that this microbial therapy can increase the effectiveness of approved immunotherapy drugs in pre-clinical models of TNBC. Encouragingly their microbial treatment was also effective in models of lung cancer, pancreatic cancer and melanoma showing the broad potential for benefit.
The study’s findings, published in the Cancer Research journal, underscore the promising trajectory of immunotherapy in cancer treatment.
The collaboration between NBCF and researchers like A/Prof Chtanova exemplifies the power of strategic investment in pioneering research, offering tangible hope for patients worldwide.
We extend our gratitude to you, our donors, and supporters. It is your generosity that propels these world-class studies forward, offering renewed hope and possibilities for a future without breast cancer deaths.
“A heart felt thank you to all NBCF donors and supporters. Your donations make our breakthroughs possible.”
- NBCF-funded researcher,
Associate Professor Tatyana Chtanova
THANK YOU FOR STANDING WITH US
Your big heart and generosity make our work possible. Thanks to people like you, NBCF can support world-class research that aims to support our shared vision Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
These messages, sent from people just like you, show just how much your words inspire us to pursue this vision.
FLAVIA’S JOURNEY
FROM BREAST CANCER TO SQUAT CHAMPION
This March we’re rallying the community to take on the 57 Squat challenge: where we ask you to complete 57 squats a day, for the 57 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each day.
It’s not just about physical exercise but a shared commitment to raising awareness and funds for world-class breast cancer research. By signing up, dedicating yourself to complete 57 daily squats, and actively fundraising, you become a vital part in supporting individuals like our inspiring Squat Champion, Flavia.
Flavia was just 28 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2010. Flavia’s mother, who was also diagnosed with breast cancer, taught her that the best thing she could do was to focus on living her life.
Three years after her diagnosis, Flavia gave birth to her first child, a baby boy. While her right breast could not produce milk, she was amazed that her left ‘did the job of two!’. In 2017, she gave birth to her baby girl, and she was grateful they were happy with breast and bottle.
Flavia’s specialist often brought up a bilateral mastectomy at her regular check-ups. She was indecisive for a long time, but she ultimately made her choice by remembering how hard it was to watch her mother struggle with breast cancer and decided to go ahead with the bilateral mastectomy with the hope of sparing the same challenge for her children.
With the support of her husband, two young children, and their Labrador, Flavia has completed the 57 Squat challenge for the past two years, raising over $6K for world-class breast cancer research. Flavia is passionate about raising awareness for breast cancer research and helping NBCF reach our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer, by taking on 57 Squats everyday in March.
Thank you to Flavia, her family, and all our wonderful fundraisers for taking on the 57 Squat Challenge and supporting world-class breast cancer research through your hard work and dedication.
You can join the 57 Squat challenge by registering at 57squatchallenge.org.au
SAVING LIVES WITH iSTRAP
Since 2021, iSTRAP has been a valued supporter in the National Breast Cancer Foundation's (NBCF) mission to achieve Zero Deaths from breast cancer. As an Australian-owned company, iSTRAP has showcased unwavering commitment, raising over $50,000 through the sales of their Pink Hero Sport Band, with $5 from each sale contributing to world-class breast cancer research.
More than an accessory, iSTRAP's Pink Hero Sport Band embodies strength and solidarity—a beacon of hope for those affected by breast cancer. iSTRAP's pledge to donate $5 from every sale reflects their corporate responsibility and compassion to a cause that affects over 20,000 Australians each year.
Crafted from custom-developed silicone, the Pink Hero Sport Band is a fusion of some of iSTRAP's most popular Sport Band colours, compression-molded together.
Each one, like its wearer, is a unique testament to the strength found in unity. Choosing the Pink Hero Sport Band isn't just accessorising, it represents a commitment to the NBCF’s vision of achieving Zero Deaths from Breast Cancer. Wearers make a statement, contribute to a cause, and showcase their support for the women, men, and families impacted by breast cancer.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation extends its appreciation to iSTRAP for their crucial role in helping to advance breast cancer research. Their unwavering support propels progress toward a future of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
POWERING UP RESEARCH
In an uplifting partnership since 2018, Alka Power alkaline spring water proudly serves as a valued corporate partner of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). This family-owned Australian company, situated in the Southern Highlands of NSW, continues to support the work of NBCF through their cause related Pink bottle marketing campaign.
ALKA POWER's alkaline water, is bottled at the source in the pristine Southern Highlands of NSW. The only naturally raised high pH9-10 mineral infused alkaline water brand is a brand that continues to drive positive impact to the Australian community. Through their "Drink Pink" campaign, with a donation made per bottle, they have harnessed their passion to raise an impressive $119,097 in support of world-class breast cancer research.
This contribution has been instrumental in helping to progress research, supporting the four pillars of funding: prevention, detection, treatment and stopping breast cancer.
Their partnership with NBCF sets a shining example of corporate responsibility, inspiring others to join the cause. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to ALKA POWER for their extraordinary dedication and generosity, contributing to world-class breast cancer research that brings us closer to NBCF’s vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
Available nationally in major and independent supermarkets, and leading petrol and convenience stores.
GLO PINK: A SPARKLING START TO THE YEAR
We are thrilled to share with you the success of our GLO Pink campaign, where Australians celebrated the new year with a splash of pink and a dash of hope. Thanks to the City of Sydney, our wonderful fundraisers, and generous donors like you, for raising funds and awareness for breast cancer research. You are the reason we can continue our mission to fund world-class research and the vision of Zero Deaths a reality.
SAVE THE DATE:
UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Don’t miss out on the exciting opportunities to get involved with NBCF this year. Whether you want to challenge yourself, honour someone special, or have fun with your family and friends, we have something for everyone. Here are the next events you can join:
The 57 Squat Challenge
Squat your way through March for the 57 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
Mother’s Day Classic
Start your Mother’s Day with a walk or run on May 14 and fund world-class research that is focused on saving lives.
Give it Up for Breast Cancer
Challenge yourself to give up something you love for a month, anytime in 2024 and make a difference with your donations.
GO PINK
Make a pledge this June to Wear it, Shave it or Colour it, and GO PINK with your community to raise funds for vital breast cancer research.
Step Up to Breast Cancer
Challenge yourself this August to Step Up to Breast Cancer. Complete 10,000 steps a day throughout the month, raise money for breast cancer research and become an NBCF Super Stepper.
Pink Ribbon Breakfast:
This October host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast event and raise funds for NBCF. Ask your friends, family or coworkers to help you organise a great event and together you’ll have fun raising vital funds to help end deaths from breast cancer.
We hope you are as excited as we are about these events. Together, we can make 2024 a year to remember, and a year to save lives. Thank you for being part of our NBCF community.
LINGUINNI ZUCCHINI
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini
100 grams pancetta chopped
1 cup Pecorino cheese grated
2 tbps extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Using a vegetable peeler or spiraliser, peel a pile of ribbons from the zucchinis.
- In a non-stick pan over medium high heat, add ½ tablespoon of oil and sauté the ribbons for 20 seconds on each side. Add the pancetta, half the cheese, and remaining oil and toss together.
- Divide between 4 bowls. Sprinkle with remaining Pecorino and season with cracked pepper to serve.
Serves 4
Thanks to our long time partner, 4 Ingredients – visit 4ingredients.com.au for more delicious recipes!