A gift in memory of my larger-than-life hero

Julie loves to reminisce about her lovely dad, a bobby for almost 30 years who instilled in her the importance of giving back.

Here she shares why she’s included a gift in her Will for Marie Curie.

Julie first visited the Marie Curie Hospice, Liverpool as an outpatient in 2012. Little did she know that this would mark the beginning of a profound connection with the charity.

“In 2013 my father was diagnosed with end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)," says Julie. "After his diagnosis, dad had stopped going out and getting dressed. My larger-than-life hero had simply diminished in front of my eyes. 

"I took him along to the Marie Curie Hospice to be assessed by Jane, the day unit manager. Dad was in his pyjamas when we met Jane. She sat and chatted to him as if there was no one else in the room. Dad came away promising to be back next week, dressed and ready for a full day with the team."

“That was the start for dad. Over the next four years, Marie Curie’s day unit became a haven for my father. Dad lived for a full four years being looked after by the Day Unit team, we made some very special memories over that time.

"It transformed his life, reigniting his spirit and allowing us to create cherished memories. We had the chance to talk about what dad wanted at the end of his life, and for both of us the fear of him dying diminished as the years went on. I honestly believe dad’s life was not only made more enjoyable but also lengthened the time he had with us."

“In 2017, dad died peacefully at home with me and my mum, his wife of 60 years. It was a calm and peaceful death, perfect for a man who had lived a happy life, giving back to the community he lived in.

“There is such a real need for us all to talk with our loved ones about end of life and what that looks like. It feels like a lottery at times if you get to have Marie Curie care or not. Raising awareness of all Marie Curie’s services is key. And so is raising funds to support the charity's growth to achieve this."

Watch Julie's story

“I have worked in fundraising now for five years and every day I see the need for us to be there for all. I also get to see the impact on the families when we are. I feel truly humbled to be a part of their journeys through dying, bereavement and grief.”

“Because of my dad I have included a gift in my Will for Marie Curie. I want every daughter to be able to have the same experience I had, to be educated and given the strength, support and love of Marie Curie.”

Will you leave a gift in your Will?

Will you join Julie, and include a gift in your Will for Marie Curie? 

A gift in your Will to Marie Curie will help the charity provide expert hospice care to more people at the end of life – whatever the illness, wherever they are.

With your help, more people will get the best possible care at the end of their lives. To find out how you can update or write your Will for free today, call 0800 144 5740 or visit mariecurie.org.uk/willtalk