Welcome to the Good News Roundup for April 28, 2025
Peanut allergy breakthrough proves life-changing
A groundbreaking clinical trial out of the UK is providing evidence that adults with severe peanut allergies can be successfully desensitised through gradual exposure therapy.
Under careful medical supervision, participants were given increasing amounts of peanut powder over nine months – starting with just a fraction of a milligram – eventually reaching the point where they could safely eat whole peanuts.
As one study participant explained to BBC News, the outcome has been life-changing.
Valerie the vanishing dachshund finally rescued
In a wonderful story of survival, a miniature dachshund named Valerie has been rescued after more than 500 days alone in the wilds of Kangaroo Island, South Australia.
The cheeky pet escaping during a family holiday on the island in November 2023, adapting to the rugged conditions and shying away from rescue attempts,
But Valerie’s adventure has ended after local wildlife rescue successfully lured her into a specially designed trap filled with familiar scents, toys, and food.
Read all about her journey, here.
The power of adolescent sleep being realised
A new study has found even small differences in sleep duration can significantly impact cognitive outcomes for young people preparing for exams, with participants who had healthier sleep habits exhibiting larger brain volumes and superior brain function.
The research, from the University of Cambridge and Fudan University in Shanghai, found that even a small 15-minute increase in sleep improved the adolescents’ vocabulary, reading, and problem-solving.
Interestingly, the researchers found no significant differences in school achievement between the groups being studied.
See the research here.
Tasmanian farmer does his bit to save King Island’s natural treasures
This is the story of one farmer’s mission to reduce his environmental footprint, thanks to the encouragement of his children who came home from school one day to tell him he needed to change his ways.
After being raised a self-described “bash and burner” when it came to clearing native vegetation, beef farmer Fred Perry has spent the last 30 years doing his best to restore the land for the native flora and fauna.
He says the biggest reward for effort has been in seeing the dozens of bird species return to his family farm.
Read more here.
