She spends her time exploring the world of cancer and now Nikki Verrills has tangoed, twirled and twisted to raise money for research into one of the world’s biggest killers.
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The young Rothbury scientist was hand-picked to join 11 Hunter celebrities to raise $100,000 for Cancer Council NSW with each star being partnered with a professional dance instructor to learn a dance routine.
“This event has certainly challenged me and pushed me outside of my comfort zone,” Dr Verrills said.
“The dance training reminded me about muscles that I had forgotten about and, as a researcher, I know first hand how important the fundraising is and what a difference it makes in the fight against cancer, so I’m really proud to be involved.”
Dr Verrills – who works at the University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute – was joined by former East Maitland resident and past winner of The Block Lara Cranfield, NBN newsreader Natasha Beyersdorf, NEW FM breakfast presenter Mel “Sarge” Sergeant, NRL legend Mark Sargent, and Mr Universe Lee Priest.
“One in two people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime and over 43,000 Australians die each year from this awful disease,” Dr Verrills said.
“I have dedicated my life to finding a cure and to end the suffering from this disease.”
Dr Verrills’ research career has centred on understanding the molecular pathways in various cancers, which has put her on the threshold of discovering a potential new treatment for people with leukaemia.
“The work that researchers are doing has led to huge improvements in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment,” she said.
