Meet the People behind OCAGI
Polly Grundy
Founder / CEO
Polly Grundy founded OCAGI in 2012 after losing her husband, Mark, to oesophageal cancer. Turning personal loss into purpose, Polly has become a passionate advocate for awareness, support, and research, and remains the driving force behind the organisation.
As President and primary point of contact, Polly is deeply committed to ensuring that no individual or family faces this diagnosis alone.
During the challenges of COVID-19, Polly transitioned OCAGI’s support network from in-person to an online community. Today, the Oesophageal Cancer Support Group on Facebook provides a vital, safe and compassionate space for patients, families, and those grieving to connect and support one another.
Jessica Grundy
Vice-President
Jessica is a founding member of OCAGI and served as Vice President from 2015 to 2026, having previously held the roles of Treasurer and Secretary.
With a background in law and science, Jessica supports the organisation’s operations and contributes to its strategic direction. She also plays an important role in ensuring that the information shared through OCAGI’s website is accurate, reliable, and evidence-based.
Jessica remains committed to supporting individuals and families affected by oesophageal cancer through her ongoing involvement with the organisation.
Pena Borg
Treasurer
Pena is a founding member of OCAGI and served as Treasurer from 2015 bringing strong financial oversight and organisational experience to the team.
With a lifelong career in bookkeeping and over 40 years as a certified Justice of the Peace, Pena contributes a high level of integrity, accuracy, and professionalism to her role. She also plays a key part in the planning and delivery of OCAGI’s major fundraising events and supports the organisation’s ongoing operations.
Pena remains deeply committed to the mission of OCAGI and to supporting individuals and families impacted by oesophageal cancer.
Demi Muir
Secretary
Demi has been involved with OCAGI since 2015, supporting major events and contributing to the organisation’s growth. She has served as Secretary since 2019, playing an important role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of OCAGI.
With a background in science and administration, Demi brings strong organisational skills and a detail-focused approach to her role. She is particularly passionate about early detection and is committed to deepening understanding around the who, what, when, why, and where of oesophageal cancer.
Demi remains dedicated to supporting the mission of OCAGI and the individuals and families impacted by this disease.
Senior Lecturer Translational Gastroenterology
Dr Jerry Zhou BSc (Hons) PhD
Dr Jerry Zhou is a Senior Lecturer in Translational Gastroenterology and has worked alongside OCAGI for almost a decade.
He plays a key role in guiding and overseeing the research supported by OCAGI at Western Sydney University, helping to translate scientific discovery into meaningful outcomes for patients. With a strong focus on improving early detection and advancing understanding of oesophageal cancer, Dr Zhou brings both expertise and innovation to the organisation’s research efforts.
Dr Zhou’s ongoing collaboration with OCAGI ensures that funded research remains targeted, impactful, and aligned with the needs of those affected by this disease.