The enduring legacy of Professor Justin Yerbury AM continues to fuel a worldwide scientific battle against motor neurone disease, more than two years after the Illawarra researcher's passing. His remarkable journey from professional basketball to pioneering scientist has created a ripple effect that's transforming MND research.
From Basketball Court to Research Laboratory
Born and raised in the Illawarra region, Professor Justin Yerbury achieved his dream of playing professional basketball with the Illawarra Hawks during the 1990s. However, his life took a dramatic turn when his family faced an unimaginable tragedy. Within just six weeks in 2002, he lost his mother, grandmother, and aunt to motor neurone disease. This devastating pattern continued as his sister, uncle, and cousin also succumbed to the condition.
Rather than being defeated by grief, Yerbury channeled his loss into a powerful mission. He left his sports career behind and embarked on an academic journey, determined to understand and ultimately cure the disease that had devastated his family.
Building a Scientific Legacy at UOW
After earning his PhD from the University of Wollongong in 2008, Professor Yerbury emerged as a respected molecular biologist whose research gained international recognition. His work focused on understanding the molecular processes that cause proteins to clump in nerve cells - the pathological hallmark of MND.
Professor Heath Ecroyd, a UOW researcher in neurodegenerative disease, recalls how Yerbury's passion inspired him and other scientists. "Justin came up to me and said, 'Have you ever thought about studying MND?' He had no hesitation in asking, and his passion was contagious," Professor Ecroyd remembered. "He inspired so many researchers to join the cause and, in doing so, brought together an incredible pool of research talent."
Today, the Yerbury Lab continues this vital work with an exceptional team including Dr Luke McAlary, Dr Christen Chisholm and Dr Jeremy Lum, who are building on the scientific foundations established by their mentor.
The Ongoing Challenge and Community Support
Finding a cure for MND remains one of medical science's most difficult challenges. Only about 10 percent of cases are linked to genetics, while the majority have no clear cause. The disease involves multiple biological mechanisms, making it exceptionally difficult to pinpoint how it begins or how to stop its progression.
Researchers in the Yerbury Lab are approaching MND from multiple angles, investigating proteins, genes, and cells to unravel the disease's complex threads. They're developing new imaging tools, improving diagnostics, and collaborating with scientists worldwide to find effective treatments - all from the state-of-the-art facilities at UOW.
The Illawarra Mercury is proudly supporting the Yerbury Lab during its 170th year, coinciding with UOW's 50th anniversary. This partnership highlights the significant community support behind this critical research.
Professor Ecroyd emphasizes the team's determination: "The lab is full of people who wanted to join Justin on this journey and make a difference. Fulfilling Justin's purpose and building on his legacy keeps us going. I'm so proud of how the team continues to push forward."
Supported by the Illawarra community that Professor Yerbury loved, the laboratory stands as a powerful testament to how one person's determination can inspire generations and bring hope to families affected by MND worldwide.
