Organisers of a major fundraising event will hear tonight (Monday, November 5) about leading breast cancer research being undertaken in Aberdeen thanks to their efforts.
Almost 1,000 women took part in the Moonlight Prowl – a sponsored walk through the night which took place in Fraserburgh in June – and raised a massive £79,064 for local breast cancer research.
The sum came on top of a £22,000 donation given last year to Aberdeen breast cancer researchers by Prowl organisers after they staged their very first fundraising walk.
Tonight researchers will be in Fraserburgh to tell the organisers how they are helping to fund four important research projects, each lasting up to 3 years. These are being undertaken by doctors and scientists working together at the University of Aberdeen, the Breast Unit at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and the Rowett Research Institute.
One of these projects will involve researchers studying the role of spirituality in influencing the outcomes of care for women with breast cancer. Spirituality can come from religion, but it can also come from other core beliefs and through relationships with family, friends and community.
The importance of belief and sense of purpose, whether religious or otherwise, when recovering from breast cancer is recognised as important in terms of women's recovery, ability to cope and quality of life.
However this remains a little studied area. It is hoped the results of this project – headed by the Reverend John Swinton, Professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care at the University – will inform health practitioners and policy makers.
Another study receiving support from the Fraserburgh fundraisers is led by University breast cancer researcher Dr Andy Schofield and is investigating why some women do and some women don't respond well to chemotherapy treatment.
Dr Schofield said: "This is already giving exciting clues as to which genes could determine why some patients do not respond to chemotherapy."
The Prowl organisers will also hear about another study headed by Dr Paul Haggarty Head of the Nutrition and Epigenetics Group which brings together the Rowett and the University, which is exploring the factors related to alcohol, diet, lifestyle, the environment and genes have on cells and the impact these might have on cells becoming cancerous.
And a fourth project led by University Professors Steve Heys and Mike Rogers will investigate the effects of breast cancer cells on the bone and why it is that cancers can spread to bones.
Professor Heys, Cancer Research programme leader at the University, said: "We are very much looking forward to meeting these wonderful ladies who are responsible for organising such a successful fundraiser for two years in a row.
"Funds raised from both Moonlight Prowls have been a major boost to breast cancer research in the North East. The University of Aberdeen and the Rowett Research Institute have also contributed funding in recognition of these tremendous efforts and the importance of these key areas of research.
"The organisers of both Moonlight Prowls and all of the walkers who took part should take great pride in the knowledge that their efforts are allowing leading scientists to further develop important new lines of breast cancer research to add to the portfolio already underway in Aberdeen.
"They can rest assured that their donations are helping to make a real difference, and we will come back regularly to explain to them how their projects are progressing."