Hope for new discoveries in haematology research

The late Kent Keith and his wife Marion formed a deep connection with the Australian National University (ANU), through the many friends and colleagues Kent met during his time as a researcher. Today, Kent's bequest supports critical medical research in haematology, and Marion has chosen to continue his legacy. 

Kent's support of medical research began when his first wife, Noel, passed away from leukaemia in 2001. To honour Noel's wishes, Kent established the Keith Family Research Endowment in Clinical Haematology at the ANU College of Health and Medicine.  

Marion and Kent joined the ANU Springbank Circle in 2014, when Kent decided to leave a testamentary gift to the University. Kent bequeathed his property to ensure future support for the Keith Family Research Endowment. Marion, who has also chosen to bequeath to the Endowment, fondly recalls attending past Springbank Circle events with Kent. 

"We really enjoyed catching up with donors and listening to the guest speakers," says Marion. "It's a special group of people with a common goal of supporting the University and making a lasting impact." 

Kent's bequest to support the Keith Family Research Endowment in Clinical Haematology was fulfilled in 2021. 

Professor Mark Polizzotto, Head of the Clinical Hub for Interventional Research at the ANU College of Health and Medicine, explains that Kent and Marion's support will improve the quality of clinical research and trials in haematology. It is also raising new hope in the treatment and care of patients with blood disorders. 

"Clinical trials are the bridge from scientific discoveries to advances in human health," says Professor Polizzotto. "The great generosity of the Keith family will enable us to strengthen clinical trials in the Canberra region, providing crucial dedicated support to develop a local workforce of specialists in cancer and haematology clinical trials.