Owen Finegan, celebrated former Australian Wallaby and current CEO of The Kids’ Cancer Project, is on a mission to defeat childhood cancer. His journey into philanthropy was inspired by his father, who often said, “It’s in giving that you receive.” This philosophy has guided Finegan throughout his life and career, leading him to become a pivotal figure in Australia’s largest independent not-for-profit organization dedicated to childhood cancer research.
This year marks a decade since Finegan took the helm at The Kids’ Cancer Project, continuing the vision of its founder, Col Reynolds, to ensure that all young cancer patients not only survive but thrive without long-term health issues. Reynolds founded the organization over 32 years ago after a poignant encounter with two young cancer patients, which inspired him to make a difference.
The Impact of The Kids’ Cancer Project
Since its inception, The Kids’ Cancer Project has invested more than $75 million into childhood cancer research, funding 429 projects since 2005. Despite cancer being the leading cause of disease-related death in Australian children, significant progress has been made. The survival rate for childhood cancer has increased from 58% to 87% over the past decade, thanks to advancements in research and treatment.
Finegan credits his rugby career for providing him with a platform to raise awareness and support for the cause. “I feel very lucky,” he said. “Playing for the Wallabies was rewarding, but this role is much more fulfilling, representing young kids and their families.”
Personal Stories and Achievements
While attending funerals of young cancer victims remains a somber reality, Finegan finds hope in the stories of survivors. He recalls the son of a former Wallaby teammate who recently celebrated his 21st birthday after overcoming neuroblastoma, a cancer that had given him only a 35% chance of survival.
Finegan is optimistic about the future, believing that the goal of zero childhood cancer deaths is within reach. However, he acknowledges that the work will continue to improve the quality of life for survivors, many of whom suffer from long-term effects of their treatments.
Innovations and Future Directions
The Kids’ Cancer Project is collaborating with organizations worldwide, leveraging technology, big data, and bioinformatics to accelerate cancer research. Finegan notes the transformative impact of AI and other technologies in recent years, which are helping to expedite research projects.
Col Reynolds, now 84, remains a driving force behind the organization. “He’s still on our board and continues to inspire us,” Finegan said. “He recently updated his will to leave everything to The Kids’ Cancer Project.”
The ZERO Childhood Cancer Program
One of the organization’s standout achievements is its involvement in the ZERO Childhood Cancer precision medicine program. In 2016, The Kids’ Cancer Project invested $200,000 in the program’s initial clinical trials, which provided real-time genomic testing for children with aggressive cancers. This investment paved the way for further funding, including a significant $112 million from the Albanese Government in March, securing ZERO’s status as a world-leading initiative.
“This funding means every child with pediatric cancers will have access to personalized treatment, having their genetics and tumors tested to find the best treatment specifically for them,” Finegan explained. “These are some of the many big wins that are happening.”
As The Kids’ Cancer Project continues its groundbreaking work, Finegan remains committed to the vision of more 21st birthdays and fewer funerals, driven by the belief that every child deserves a future free from cancer.
