Research Australia
Health & Medical Research Awards

2016 Advocacy Award

Congratulations to Award Winner: Brenda King

Whilst looking at ideas for fundraising events it was brought to Brenda’s attention that the Children’s Hospital had its own SIDS research lab and they were very near to closing as they were not receiving enough funding. It was decided that a fun run would be held in the Hawkesbury and she would try to raise enough money to help prevent this.

Brenda started the ball rolling, the SIDS Stampede was born, and after the first event they had raised $18,000 and had 420 participants. After this success it was decided that the fun run would be held yearly on Father’s Day, which to date has raised $134,000 from 5 events.

The SIDS Stampede has become a yearly event for families to celebrate the lives of the babies lost to SIDS. Brenda says, “when you see the families mourning the loss of their babies you really know how lucky you are”.

There were more families affected then she would ever had thought and she believes that she is incredibly privileged to be in a position where she can bring awareness about SIDS and provide an event where the community, families and scientists can all rally together and hopefully save more lives.

Image caption: Senator the Hon Kim Carr, Brenda King & Professor Christine Bennett