Cairns man's legacy prompts research

Just over a year ago, Cairns man Gavin Paul Bennier tragically lost his life to stroke. The popular car salesman and finance broker was just 45 years old.

Determined to ensure his legacy lives on well after his death, Gavin’s devoted parents, David and Shirley, have channeled their grief into action and research.

They have endowed a Memorial Research Fund in Gavin’s name, administered by the Stroke Foundation. The couple is determined to support a breakthrough into the rare, untreatable and deadly brain disorder which contributed to Gavin’s stroke. 

David Bennier said Gavin had Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA), a disorder more commonly associated with the elderly. 

“We are extremely concerned that stroke is on the rise in younger people,” David said.

“We lost Gavin far too soon. We don’t want other families to go through the same heartbreak, so we are doing all we can to help find the answers that could save lives.”

Researchers can now apply for the Gavin Paul Bennier Memorial Research Grant, which offers up to $240,000 over three years for a project which focuses on the early diagnosis, treatment, prevention or cure of CAA induced stroke in younger people.

Stroke Foundation Executive Director, Stroke Services, Toni Aslett said she was extremely grateful to David and Shirley Bennier for their generous contribution and their dedication to searching for much needed answers surrounding CAA.

“I am inspired by the Benniers’ commitment to a better future for young adults with stroke in the face of profound tragedy,” Ms Aslett said.

“Too many young adults like Gavin are suffering strokes.

“Each day in Australia 20 strokes strike people under the age of 65. These are people with families and jobs and plans for the future.

“We want to see young stroke survivors recover, thrive and return to work. High quality and effective research is the answer. When breakthroughs are made they can benefit generations to come,” she said.

Stroke attacks the brain, the human control centre and can change lives in an instant.

In 2018, there will be almost 300 strokes in the Cairns region alone, while more than 2700 stroke survivors will be living in the community.

For more information on the Stroke Foundation 2019 Research Grant round or to donate to the Gavin Paul Bennier Memorial Research Fund click here.