Fundraising drive for brain cancer research smashes target

Just before the New Year, James Thomas of ABN Australia successfully completed the Festive 500 challenge (cycling between Christmas and New Year).

By Richard Chatten-Hague

James was able to do this while undergoing daily radiation and chemotherapy, and was cheered on by many family and friends, as well as local sports clubs in the Perth area.

This fundraising campaign is dedicated to advancing research in the field of brain cancer. James was able to smash his original target of $5,000 by achieving an incredible $29,422. James is now aiming for this total to reach $30,000 by the end of January.

James said: “I'm pleased to share that I successfully completed the Festive 500 challenge, with the help of many wonderful people I managed to ride 691km in total.

“More importantly, with the incredible support of friends, family, our local and extended communities, colleagues past and present and even strangers, we've surpassed our fundraising target of $25,000! Thank you to everyone who has contributed and helped to spread the word.

“While we've achieved an incredible milestone, our fundraising mission continues. The fundraising window remains open until January 31, 2024 and every additional contribution helps to further advance the work of researchers in the field.”

A senior member of the ABN Australia team, James (Director of People Services), was diagnosed with 'stage 4' brain cancer and has now commenced treatment in his hometown of Perth, Western Australia.

James has been responsible for bringing our Employer of Record solution to the market in 2023, and also manages all recruitment efforts internally within our ABN Australia practice.

Every year, more than 1,200 Australians lose their lives to brain cancer, with a new brain cancer case diagnosed every five hours.

ABN Australia Managing Director, Aaron Garry said: “The ABN Australia team would like to thank everyone who has supported James. Our goal is to contribute to cutting-edge initiatives that will provide hope to James and the countless individuals facing similar challenges.”

To read more about James’ story or to donate please visit here.

Published: 25th January 2024