-

The power of sisterhood advances breast cancer research

This article featured in Illuminate Newsletter Winter ‘23
Key Researchers
Introduction

When you hear the story behind the Two Sisters Foundation, you can’t help but feel in awe of the strength, tenacity and dogged optimism of Lisa Bardas and Ellie Rogers.

When Ellie was diagnosed with breast cancer, her sister Lisa dropped everything to be at her side and help her conquer it.

When Lisa and Ellie received the news that they both carried a breast cancer gene mutation known as BRCA1, they leant on each other for the psychological, emotional and physical strength to endure the preventative surgeries required to make them safe.

Changing the cancer story

Breast cancer affects one in eight women in Australia. Women who carry a faulty BRCA1 gene have a 70% chance of developing breast cancer and a 40% chance of developing ovarian cancer.

In response to their health challenges, Lisa and Ellie created the Two Sisters Foundation, to educate and empower others facing similar ordeals, and raise funds for medical research to change the cancer story for women now and for future generations.

The foundation supports BRCArelated breast cancer research led by WEHI Professors Jane Visvader and Geoff Lindeman, who are working towards preventing breast cancer in high-risk women. They are also exploring ways to prevent the development of ovarian cancer.

Accelerating progress

Explaining why they chose to support WEHI, the sisters say: “We share their belief that the greatest hope for the future lies in medical research – and that the time for discovery is now. By helping to accelerate scientific progress, raise awareness, and provide access to information and testing, we are one step closer to ensuring survival.”

You can join Lisa and Ellie in their quest to save lives by donating to WEHI’s tax appeal. Every dollar donated will be matched by the Two Sisters Foundation, doubling the impact of your contribution. https://www.wehi.edu.au/donate/breastcancer

First published on 01 June 2023
This article featured in Illuminate Newsletter Winter ‘23
WEHI Authors
Support us

Together we can create a brighter future

Your support will help WEHI’s researchers make discoveries and find treatments to ensure healthier, longer lives for you and your loved ones.

Sign up to our quarterly newsletter Illuminate

Find out about recent discoveries, community supporters and more.

Illuminate Summer 2023
View the current issue