The journey from a family farm in Kojonup, in the Great Southern Region of WA, to an oncology unit at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London is hardly a well-trodden path for many young country kids.
However, for Dr Tom Ferguson, a medical oncologist at Fiona Stanley Hospital (FSH) specialising in genitourinary and colorectal cancer management, that path forged his commitment to advancing cancer treatment and helping Western Australians lead longer, healthier lives.
Dr Ferguson grew up in country Western Australia before attending boarding school in Perth and earning his medical degree from the University of WA.
He furthered his expertise with a two-year clinical research fellowship at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London before returning to Perth to work as a consultant medical oncologist.
He says it was an opportunity to travel to the UK in 2001 to work as a junior doctor that proved life-changing.
“During this period, I had the opportunity to work in an oncology unit, which somewhat unexpectedly turned out to be a highly rewarding experience” he said.
“Despite the challenge of facing incurable illnesses, the gratitude and appreciation from patients and their families for the care and support provided were immensely fulfilling.”
He said since beginning his specialty training in medical oncology in 2006, he has witnessed significant advancements in cancer medicine, leading to improved treatment options and patient outcomes.
“These achievements have been driven by scientific and clinical research, an area in which I have been fortunate to observe and actively participate.”
At the FSH medical oncology department, his primary focus is on conducting clinical trials, often in collaboration with research groups or pharmaceutical companies.
Thanks to the research grant assistance from The Hospital Research Foundation Group (formerly Spinnaker Health Research Foundation) it has helped Dr Ferguson and his team undertake what is known as the LuCAPE clinical trial.
The trial explores the safety and potential benefits of combining two existing treatments for men with advanced prostate cancer and ultimately, he says to provide better outcomes for men with prostate cancer.
“Conducting research such as the LuCAPE trial helps foster a culture and environment conducive to future research, innovation, and breakthroughs and supports our junior researchers coming through.”
He is also passionate about supporting men’s mental health and providing a positive role model for his two boys aged 12 and 14.
He says while his household is a very busy one, he and his wife, who also works in healthcare, recognise the importance of trying to live a balanced life and enjoy the everyday moments amidst the busy-ness of work and life.
“Whether that’s going for a run, having breakfast with my kids or dropping them at school before I head to work, these are the moments that really matter for me.”
We’re proud to support Dr Ferguson’s work, helping more Western Australians affected by cancer enjoy everyday moments.
To support life-changing research like Dr Ferguson’s, please donate today.
