The funds raised will establish the Anthony Rizzo Memorial ALS Research Fund in honour of Ing. Rizzo. The presentation was made to the Research Trust (RIDT) of the University of Malta, during a visit to the ALS research labs where Prof. Ruben Cauchi and his team of scientists are working on the genetics of motor neuron diseases, including ALS. Prof. Cauchi explained the stages of research that is happening in his lab and argued that such donations are crucial for the studies to keep going. Studies include sequencing of DNA taken from patients’ blood samples and stored in the university’s biobank. ‘Sequencing helps us understand the changes in patients’ DNA, which in turn provides us with pointers for potential new therapies’ said Prof. Cauchi.
Wilfred Kenely, CEO of the RIDT received the donation and thanked the Rizzo family for this noble gesture. ‘By appealing for donations in lieu of flowers, you have started a snowball effect which has managed to raise this beautiful amount of money. This is definitely the best way to celebrate the memory of those who have left us,’ said Mr Kenely.
Also present for the donation were Mr Robert Agius representing Mr Rizzo’s ex class mates from St Aloysius College and Mr Eric Muscat representing Mr Rizzo’s cycling friends.
The RIDT has been set up as a joint initiative between the University of Malta and the Government of Malta and is tasked to raise funds that will support and sustain research in all areas of study within the University of Malta. Donations to the Anthony Rizzo Memorial ALS Research Fund can be made by visiting the .
