The difference YOU’ll MAKE
About the Mark Hughes Foundation
The Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) is a non-profit charity dedicated to funding brain cancer research, raising awareness, and supporting patients and their families. Founded in 2014 by Mark Hughes and his wife Kirralee after Mark’s brain cancer diagnosis, MHF addresses the critical underfunding of this devastating disease in Australia.
What began as a small local fundraiser, the Beanie for Brain Cancer campaign, has grown into a nationally recognized movement. In partnership with the National Rugby League, over 1 million beanies have been sold, raising vital funds for research and care.
With the support of people across Australia, MHF is creating hope, driving change, and working toward a cure for brain cancer.
Visit the MHF website for all the updated research news.
Why your support matters
Brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Australians under 40. This includes children, making it one of the most devastating cancers affecting young lives.
Brain cancer survival rates have barely improved in 30 years. Despite advances in other areas of cancer research, brain cancer treatments remain limited and underfunded.
Only 2% of federal cancer research funding goes to brain cancer. Brain cancer is significantly underfunded compared to other cancers, slowing the pace of vital discoveries.
Every year, more than 1,800 Australians are diagnosed with brain cancer. For these individuals and their families, early intervention and better treatments could be life-changing.
The average survival time for someone with brain cancer is just 14 months. Your support helps fund research aimed at extending lives and improving outcomes.
How your fundraising helps
All funds raised support the Mark Hughes Foundation’s brain cancer research, patient care programs, and awareness initiatives.
We know that brain cancer affects so many lives, and the fight for better treatments and outcomes is ongoing. There is no quick fix, and that’s why it’s crucial for us to continue exploring new research, improving patient care, and raising awareness to ultimately help as many people as possible. Through funding vital research and support services, we aim to drive real change in the fight against brain cancer.
Here are just a few of the ways your fundraising helps make a difference:
World-class research into brain cancer treatments and cures
Your support helps fund critical research into innovative treatments, therapies, and potential cures for brain cancer.
Dedicated patient care and support programs
Funds provide specialised care through programs like the Brain Care Nurse Program, offering emotional support and expert guidance for patients and families.
Raising awareness and driving advocacy for brain cancer
Your contributions help raise awareness, advocating for greater research funding and better treatment options for those affected by brain cancer.
