Australians encouraged to leave a gift in their Will

Melbourne woman Gina Wilson understands the devastating impact stroke can have on families all too well after her mother, Joyce, had a stroke when Gina was a baby.  

It was 1949 and stroke paralysed 37-year-old Joyce down her right side. She walked with a limp, lost the use of her hand and her speech was affected at times.  

Gina recalls special moments with her mum like going to theatre together and enjoying the excellent meals she prepared, despite her disability.  

“Sadly, stroke came back to haunt mum again and again,” Gina said.  

“It is a cruel disease and each stroke left mum more incapacitated. She died just before I turned 21. It was terrible to lose her so young.” 

Gina has shared her story to mark Include a Charity Week, September 6-12. She has supported the Stroke Foundation, a charity close to her heart, by leaving a gift in her Will. 

“One of my best friends, Helen, also experienced a stroke,” Gina said.  

“It robbed her of her independence and changed her life dramatically.  

“I have chosen to support Stroke Foundation to help fund programs and vital research that could have helped my mother and Helen receive better treatment and live better lives after their strokes. 

“I want to make a difference for others in the future.” 

While 87 percent per of Australians support charities in their lifetimes, only a small number (7.5 percent) include gifts in their Wills. Include a Charity Week aims to raise awareness of the importance of charitable gifts and to inspire Australians to remember their favourite causes in their Wills.  

Like most charities, Stroke Foundation relies on the generosity and compassion of the community to carry out its essential work, with gifts in Wills making up around 15 percent of its income. 

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said all gifts from wonderful donors like Gina are greatly appreciated.  

“A legacy, of any size, can have a huge impact and allow us to continue our mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery long into the future,” Ms McGowan said.  

“I encourage Australians, after they have looked after their own loved ones, to consider leaving a gift in their Will to Stroke Foundation or any of the other worthy charities. Every bit helps.” 

For more information on leaving a gift to the Stroke Foundation in your Will, please call 1300 194 196 or email giftsinwills@strokefoundation.org.au 

Image: Gina Wilson as a child with her mother Joyce