Science and Sport-the new team tackling cancer
Once they were happy just to stomp out cockroaches but Former Origin Greats (FOGs), Gene Miles, Allan Langer , Wally Lewis and Michael Hancock now have another enemy in their sights – melanoma.
 The FOGS, in conjunction with the Mardi Jackson Foundation, have teamed up with the good sports at the PA Research Foundation to throw a hefty $70,000 at the cancer killing more Queenslanders than anywhere else in the country. The disease kills 1270 Australians a year.
“We have been fund raising for a Vivasope – a piece of machinery that WILL save lives,” PA Research Foundation Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Allen said.
“This is a non-invasive imaging tool allowing doctors to see microscopic changes in skin tissue so they can detect early onset of melanomas as well as know the size, location and  shape of the cancer cells.It will lead to improved patient outcomes via early, accurate detection and will also be able to detect microscopic changes in the skin tissue prior to clinical onset of melanoma symptoms.
FOGS raised the funds in conjunction with the Mardi Jackson Foundation from their Annual FOGS Lunch over the past two years.
Melanoma is personal to these two organisations who have picked up this ball in the hope the score one day will be melanoma, zero.
“We established the Mardi Jackson Foundation 
after our daughter lost her life to melanoma,” Broncos Director Don Jackson said.
“Melanoma like any other cancer is a tragic waste of life and we must all be vigilant because it is despicably fast how a melanoma can go from something that can be removed to a life threatening situation.”
FOGS, a non-profit organisation led by Queensland State of Origin and Australian Rugby League legend, Gene Miles was formed in 1997 with a commitment to the encouragement of sport and charities throughout Queensland.
Founded by the late Richard "Tosser" Turner, FOGS members are the elite group of 167 players who have represented Queensland in State of Origin since its inception in 1980.
“Whether you play sport professionally or for recreation, or simply go to the beach or park with your family – we are all at risk,” Gene Miles said.
If a mole or a spot looks suspicious see your family doctor – they won’t think it’s over reaction- they will respect you for being cautious. The earlier a melanoma is diagnosed the better the outcome and if we can help raise the awareness along with assisting medical research – then we are one step to finding a cure.
The Vivascope imager will be used by the Dermatology Research Centre at the PA Hospital.
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