The Robert Connor Dawes (RCD) Foundation will feature as the South Metro Junior Football League’s Charity Partner again in 2021.
The RCD Foundation is an industry leader in brain cancer fundraising and research and, together with the SMJFL, has raised crucial funding for the cause since partnering in 2014.
Seven years later, the SMJFL will continue to assist the RCD Foundation in fundraising with the continuation of the Kicking Goals for Brain Cancer Round.
SMJFL Chief Executive Officer Sarah Loh spoke of the importance of the partnership.
“The SMJFL is proud to play its part in raising money for and spreading the word about paediatric brain cancer,” said Ms Loh.
“We remain committed to finding a cure and effective treatment for paediatric brain cancer.”
SMJFL Chief Executive Officer Sarah Loh and RCD Foundation Founder and Connors mum, Liz Dawes
Founder Liz Dawes created the foundation after her son, Connor, passed away in 2013 after his battle with paediatric brain cancer.
Mrs Dawes said she soon found out after his death that paediatric brain cancer was the biggest cause of death for children in Australia, with 80 per cent of children diagnosed with high grade tumours losing their battles within five years.
“Paediatric brain cancer continues to be the biggest killer of children in Australia,” she said.
“On behalf of the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation, I’d like to thank Sarah and everyone at the SMJFL for selecting us as your Charity Partner again this year.”
Liz Dawes speaks at the SMJFL 2021 Season Launch
The RCD Foundation has raised $7.8 million for paediatric brain cancer research, and sourced an additional $10.5 million for the cause.
Ms Loh said she was moved by Liz and the Dawes Family’s story.
“It is incredible to see all that the RCD Foundation has achieved since its inception, and we are honoured to support Liz, the foundation and their efforts again in 2021.”
The Kicking Goals for Brain Cancer Round is scheduled for Round 12 of the SMJFL season on Sunday 25 July.
The SMJFL will also support the RCD Foundation’s Go Grey in May initiative, along with the annual Connor’s Run fundraiser on Sunday 12 September.
