QbD Chair for precision oncology research in glioblastoma at KU Leuven
With QbD funding, the LPCM (Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine – KU Leuven) in collaboration with Lab Normal and Malignant Hematopoiesis (UGent) investigates the clinical potential of asparaginase, a therapeutic currently used for the treatment of acute lymphatic leukemia, for the treatment of glioblastoma.
Glioblastoma is a group of high-grade brain tumors that are very difficult to treat. By blocking the production of certain essential building blocks (the amino acid asparagine) in combination with standard treatment, it seems that we can kill off glioblastoma tumor cells more efficiently. In this project, this new strategy will be extensively evaluated with state-of-the-art technology and models.
In May of this year, we organized a small event at our HQ where several researchers shared a brief, at times emotional, presentation on the status of their Precision Oncology Research in glioblastoma.
This year, we also raised awareness and funds by conquering the ‘TransAlpes’ during a 5-day cycling trip. We started in Geneva and cycled towards Nice, passing some of the most famous cols such as Colombière, Aravis, Saises, Madeleine, Glandon, Croix de Fer, Télégraphe, Galibier, Lautaret, Izoard, Vars, Bonette, …
Supporting Hubi & Vinciane
The Foundation Hubi & Vinciane is an organization of volunteers in Belgium and a local team in Benin. The organization works on sustainable progression through ethical projects for a more dignified and better life for the people in the region of Borgou-Parakou in Benin.
In the past years, the QbD Clinical team has been supporting this foundation through numerous activities such as tombola, X-mas shopping, running, selling plants, Thai lunches etc. Together we were able to finance 2 tables for the hospital in Parakou as well as an operating lamp and we collected over 400 kg (!) of clothing, toys, glasses, shoes, sheets, towels, healthcare products etc. for the Benin population. The QbD Group donated numerous PCs, headphones, and backpacks. All of this is delivered in-person and directly where most needed and as such has a direct positive impact on the people in Benin!
On December 30, we are running the end-of-year corrida to support Hubi & Vinciane and at the moment we are also organizing a pop-up christmas shop were all the proceeds will go to this amazing foundation.
Plogging for a cleaner environment
Plogging is a global movement that anyone can join and it directly helps your community.
What is plogging? It comes from the Swedish word “Plokka op” and “jogga” which means “picking up trash while running“. But of course, we can do it while walking or even paddelboarding!
Did you know that we already collected 43 bags of trash with a total of 100 kilograms of waste? Not bad, right?
Do you want do something good for the environment?
'Haz Feliz a un nino' or 'Make a child happy'
Every year, our QbD Colombia team, their family, clients, and friends collect funds and donate hundreds of toys, clothes, and briefcases to children in vulnerable communities, as they are the future of our society.
Next, they organize a day of fun activities for them with food and entertainment. At the end of the day, they all receive a gift with a lovely, encouraging note. The smiles on their faces and the love they give back are priceless.
KOCA (Koninklijk Orthopedagogisch Centrum Antwerpen)
KOCA consists of a group of schools and facilities for children, adolescents and adults with disabilities or suspected disabilities (deaf and hard of hearing, autism spectrum disorders, speech-language development disorders, learning and behavioral disabilities).
Besides supporting the schools, they also contribute by:
- helping people who are having difficulty finding work
- giving shelter and guidance to children/youth who cannot stay at home
- providing after-school and vacation care, as well as a creche for children with disabilities
- offering mobile & ambulatory audiological assistance
- …
With the donations they receive, they not only help the schools, but also support the families that need it. Did you know that more than 50% of the young people who go to school there live in poverty?
Every year, a diner is organized to bring in some extra money. This year, the QbD Group sponsored a table and our colleagues contributed by taking part in the auction and buying wine. In return, they enjoyed a heartwarming evening filled with culinary treats by Njam! Chefs.
Our colleagues are also very passionate about supporting charities such as Fonds AC, VZW voor William, VZW Boven De Wolken, or helping those affected by the war in Ukraine. Selling candy, participating in quizzes, drinking Ukrainian beer, or collecting relief goods, are just a few initiatives we gladly sink our teeth in. As you can see, we take our charity commitment very seriously. And there is more to come…
Launching our QbD Group Foundation in 2023
These are just a few good causes close to our hearts, but it doesn’t stop here. Improving the quality of life is in our DNA. This also goes for the lives of those who need that extra helping hand. Because helping others is what brings us joy every day.
That’s why in 2023, we wil launch our own QbD Group Foundation. This foundation will invest in supporting scientific research (linked to the QbD Group activities), people and families in need when facing difficult to treat diseases (therapy, treatment, eduction costs …) and protecting the environment (innovative research etc). Three pillars in which the QbD Group aims to make a difference. More information will follow soon. Stay tuned!
