When Pip received her lung cancer diagnosis in 2019, she chose to leave a gift in her Will to Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Her partner, Mike, explains why and hopes others will consider doing the same.
Why Pip Chose to Leave a Gift in Her Will
“Pip had been a heavy smoker for a lot of her life. She had given up smoking for ten years or more earlier but obviously that had a bearing on her diagnosis. But she also knew that many people, like Roy, develop lung cancer despite never having smoked. Curious and inquisitive by nature, she felt more people should understand that and wanted to help raise awareness if she could.
Pip received a lot of support during her diagnosis and treatment. Even so, it was a difficult and heartbreaking time for both of us.
She hoped this gift would help other people. It could help them avoid some of the challenges she faced. It could also support earlier diagnosis and improve the chances of a better outcome.
She was an incredible generous person – generous of spirit as well as financially. She had always given to charity throughout her life and she knew she wanted to do the same when she died. If we ever had a fight, she would laugh and say ‘Well, that’s less for you and more for the charities!’
Pip was also a highly principled person. She had a deep sense of fairness and hated to see injustice. I think that’s why Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation was one of the main charity beneficiaries in her Will. She knew that, despite affecting so many people, lung cancer had historically received less funding than other cancers. To Pip, that wasn’t right and so she wanted to try and right that wrong.
A Legacy That Lives On
Lots of other cancer charities, I’m pleased to say, get a lot of backing. In Pip’s opinion, lung cancer doesn’t get enough funding and yet it affects so many people. Earlier diagnosis relies on continued investment in research. I like to think Pip has played a small part in making that possible.
I appreciate at the moment things are difficult for a lot of people. Many people may find it difficult to find £5 here or there to donate to charity. So leaving a gift in your Will is a fantastic way to support a cause close to your heart. It means you don’t have to give up your money right now but boy, can you make a difference after you go. That’s a great legacy to have.