The Long Road to an MND Breakthrough
For nearly thirteen years, Natalie Farrawell has dedicated her career to solving one of medicine's most challenging puzzles: finding a cure for Motor Neurone Disease. As a Research Assistant at the University of Wollongong's Yerbury Lab, she understands that progress comes not in giant leaps, but in countless small steps forward.
Every experiment matters, according to Farrawell, even those that end in disappointment. 'What I want people to know is that every little step matters,' she explains. 'Even the negative results matter. To find out that this drug is not going to work or this is not the result we expected, that helps us find a new path forward.'
A Research Partnership Forged in Science
Natalie's scientific journey began in high school, driven by curiosity and a desire to make meaningful contributions. After completing her Bachelor of Science (Honours) at UOW, she became one of the earliest members of the Yerbury Lab, named in honour of the late Professor Justin Yerbury AM.
The field of neurodegenerative diseases held personal significance for Farrawell, whose grandmother had passed away from dementia. She found not just a job, but a calling when she joined the fledgling laboratory.
Professor Yerbury became both mentor and inspiration to the young researcher. 'Justin was laidback in his approach, but he knew how to get things done,' Natalie recalls with affection. 'Whenever there was a roadblock, he had another way of looking at things. I was the glass half empty and he was the glass half full. We were a great team.'
Becoming the Backbone of Critical Research
While research assistants often work behind the scenes, Natalie's contribution to the Yerbury Lab proved extraordinary. Her role expanded from supporting other scientists and conducting experiments to becoming the laboratory's steady foundation during challenging times.
When Professor Yerbury himself became ill with MND and was hospitalised for months, unable to communicate, Natalie ensured the research continued uninterrupted. She single-handedly managed the laboratory, navigated research challenges, and oversaw Professor Yerbury's undergraduate and PhD students.
Her dedication extended beyond professional boundaries. The laboratory became a deeply personal space where she met her husband, MND researcher Dr Jeremy Lum, with whom she now shares two children.
Community support has been crucial to sustaining the laboratory's work. 'Community donations have been integral to our research,' Natalie emphasizes. 'It has kept the team going when there have been gaps in research funding.'
While she wishes she could promise a cure within five years, Farrawell remains committed to the incremental progress that defines medical research. Every bit of funding helps move the research forward, bringing hope to those affected by this devastating disease.
The Yerbury Lab's work continues to depend on both research grants and community generosity, building toward future breakthroughs in Motor Neurone Disease treatment.
