Iain Buchan with Dr Tom Snelling, researcher and Director of the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines & Infectious Diseases
A close call with meningococcal disease ignited a passion in Iain Buchan to do whatever he can to keep WA children safe from life-threatening infectious diseases.
Iain’s son Robbie contracted meningococcal B in 2014, losing both arms and legs in his fight to survive, and in the years since, Iain has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of the vaccines available to protect against the deadly disease.
A member of the Infectious Disease Community Reference Group for the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases at The Kids Research Institute Australia, Iain feels that it is important to provide a helpful voice in this setting and knows that while important steps forward are being realised, there is always plenty more to be done.
A Branch Manager for the Subiaco Commonwealth Bank, Iain recently nominated The Kids Research Institute Australia as a recipient of a $10,000 grant to boost infectious disease research.
“I know first-hand the devastating impact infectious diseases like meningococcal can have on children, and I would love to help prevent other families from going through what we went through with Robbie,” said Iain.
“The Commonwealth Bank Centenary Grant was the perfect way I could contribute to this vital cause, and hopefully our support will continue the great research already taking place at the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases.”
Thank you to Iain and the entire Commonwealth Bank community for their generous support!
Do you or your workplace want to help The Kids create a healthier future for children? People like you make all the difference. Join us by making a donation, fundraising, becoming a corporate sponsor, or making a bequest.