Helen has no idea how many kilometres she walked with her beloved pooch Prinnie for over 15 years collecting for the Leukaemia Foundation Doorknock campaign. But she does know every step was worth it to help save the lives of children with blood cancer – like her young friend, Rachel, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in 1991.
“Rachel was the daughter of my good friend, Brenda, who I met at Masonic Care where I nursed for 37 years,” Helen said.
Sadly Rachel only survived a few months but the courage shown by her and her family inspired Helen to do what she could to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation and help others affected by a blood cancer.
“I was devastated when Rachel was diagnosed. She was such a happy girl and I still marvel at how bravely she faced her leukaemia treatment.”
“Rachel and her family experienced leukaemia first-hand – it wasn’t too much for me to give up a few hours every year to encourage people to give to a great cause. My mum and dad were always helping others so it’s in my DNA,” she added.
A self-confessed poodle lover, Helen said having Prinnie by her side when she knocked on doors was a great icebreaker helped her collect more than $4,500 over 15 years.
After being involved with Doorknock for so long and understanding how those donations helped people facing blood cancer Helen decided to include the Leukemia Foundation in her Will. She says it’s another way of remembering Rachel and ensuring research continues to find better treatments and cures.
While precious Prinnie has since passed on Helen has a wonderful companion in little Lucky who brings much joy to her and her neighborhood when she goes on regular strolls.
Helen’s gift in will means so much to people facing blood cancer, what an extraordinary way to ensure her support and Rachel’s legacy lives on.
Leaving a Gift in Will
If you would like to know more about leaving a gift in your Will to the Leukaemia Foundation, please contact Giselle Versteegen, Planned Giving Specialist, on (07) 3318 4449 or [email protected].
Please seek professional legal advice before making or amending your Will.
