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Working the ward

GenV is working with birthing hospitals across Victoria to invite parents to be a part of our world-leading research project.

Our team has fostered a special relationship with staff at each hospital that we are based in. At St John of God in Bendigo, one midwife has even taken the extra step of joining GenV herself with her newborn son. Melissa Oliver has been a midwife for 12 years, passionate about helping mothers make informed choices around birth.

Melissa and baby Freddie joined GenV recently and said being involved with Gen V with the birth of her son was an easy choice.

“My daughter had lots of serious allergies, despite no family history. To me it is important to be involved in these studies to help understand why more children are affected by allergies. I believe we must be part of the change.”

Speaking on the partnership between GenV and St John of God Bendigo, Melissa said that working with St John of God helps GenV educate and inform parents from the antenatal period.

“It’s great that we can get families involved from birth and also invite families after discharge while they are attending their hearing screening.”

“To me it is important to be involved in these studies to help understand why more children are affected by allergies. I believe we must be part of the change.”

GenV Area Manager for Loddon Mallee Region, Sandra Hamilton, said that a project like GenV is only possible through the strong support provided by hospital partners such as St John of God Bendigo.

“This partnership works well as we are clearly aligned for the same purpose. The team at St John of God Bendigo are most welcoming of GenV staff, and we meet regularly both formally and informally to discuss progress.

“I am looking forward to GenV recruiters continuing to engage with as many local families as possible to offer them this opportunity to contribute to improving the outcomes of a whole generation of children.”

Both Melissa and Sandra agree that GenV is a significant research project for regional communities, praising its potential to provide insight into health and social challenges in the region.

GenV Team
Article by GenV Team