15 January 2009
Ropinder Gill from the National Society of Epilepsy (NSE), based in Chalfont St Peter, highlights the importance of legacy giving to charitable organisations such as theirs.
Wills are not always the dry things that people would imagine them to be. Very often they are about something positive and life giving and the legacies left in wills can bring happiness to others. Take for example the wills below, which not only brought financial assistance to others but have also given us a chuckle.
Charles P of Bangor, North Wales left his real estate to BEN, the Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund. His last will and testament included the quote: "I wish to be buried in a coffin lined with Perspex and filled with industrial alcohol”, and he stated "I abdicate the title 'King Charles 1 of Wales' which I claimed in 1977.”
In Henry Budd's last will and testament he left £200,000 in 1862 in trust for his two sons on the condition that neither grew a moustache. Matthias Flemming shared his dislike. In 1869 he left his employees £10 each however those with moustaches only got £5. Of course we are not suggesting that you fill your will with such strange legacies however you could do something very positive by remembering a charity such as the NSE when you come to making or updating your will.
Epilepsy affects nearly half a million people in the UK, yet it is often misunderstood and stigmatised. 30,000 new cases are confirmed each year and of the 1,000 deaths per year related to epilepsy, almost half are avoidable.
The NSE is the UK’s foremost epilepsy charity. We make a real and lasting contribution to the treatment and understanding of epilepsy by raising awareness, undertaking ground breaking medical research and providing specialist medical services, residential and respite care, information and support.
Our world class medical facilities and expertise in care mean that we are uniquely placed to research the causes and best possible treatments for people diagnosed with epilepsy.
Without the legacies that we receive we simply wouldn’t have the resources to help people deal with a condition that at its worst can ravage physical and mental health.
By remembering NSE in your will, you can do something positive that will give hope for the future for everyone affected by epilepsy.
For more information please contact us on 01494 601313; write to us at NSE Fundraising department, Chesham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire SL9 ORJ or email fundraising@epilepsynse.org.uk.
We also have lots of useful information about leaving a legacy and will making on our website: www.epilepsynse.org.uk. |
