The Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation (CRBF) is the vision of the inspiring seventeen-year-old, whose name the Foundation proudly bears. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma, in February of 2016, Cooper was not only faced with the trauma of his diagnosis, but quickly learned there had been little change in treatment options and survival outcomes for almost 40 years. He went on to create a philanthropic organisation whilst undergoing treatment, with the aim to change the trajectory for those who walk this road behind him.
Cooper tragically lost his life to sarcoma however, his vision lives on in the legacy he has left behind.
The Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation (CRBF) is dedicated to the fight against sarcoma, a sinister cancer of the connective tissue and bone, affecting all ages, but disproportionately affecting children, adolescents, and young adults. It is currently the number one cause of cancer related death in the 10–24-year-old age group in Australia.
Providing this sobering view of sarcoma’s prevalence among children, adolescents, and young adults, highlights the desperate need for increased research and support for those living with sarcoma. Currently, it is philanthropy which provides a large portion of the funding required to advance high level research to improve treatment options and survival outcomes.
The enduring impact of Cooper’s vision and the Foundation’s exponential growth are evident, with CRBF doubling in size annually since its inception. The Foundation actively channels every dollar of all DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) funds into high-level sarcoma research, raising community awareness leading to early diagnosis, and into offering crucial support to patients and families affected by sarcoma.
In the genesis of the Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation (CRBF), there was a singular vision; a vision fuelled by the determination of one young man to bring about change to sarcoma. Whilst CRBF will always bear Cooper’s name, it is today emblematic of many faces and names. It has grown to be more than one individual. Today that vision has evolved into a collective force, embracing and working for every individual living with sarcoma, along with their dedicated carers and families.
