Leaving a Legacy of Hope: How Gifts in Wills Can Change Lives

At Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity, every gift we receive is a gesture of hope – a sign that even in loss, there is a desire to create a brighter future for others affected by brain tumours. One of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting impact is by leaving a gift in your Will.

These legacy gifts help to fund vital support services and pioneering research, offering comfort and breakthroughs for future generations. They are more than donations – they are legacies of love.

“I want Gareth’s story to help others.”

Joy Smith, whose beloved son Gareth was cared for at Leeds Children’s Hospital, knows just how important this support and research can be. Gareth was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma and was under the care of our Trustee and Lead Clinician, Dr Sue Picton. He tragically passed away in 2000.

“It’s just not fair on the young ones – Gareth was only ten when he was diagnosed, and he didn’t get the chance to grow up, to live his life. That’s why I’ve chosen to leave a gift in my Will to support vital research. I hope it means other children won’t have their futures stolen in the same way.”

Now facing her own health challenges, Joy has made the courageous and generous decision to leave a gift in her Will to help fund brain tumour research. Her legacy will live on in every discovery made, every life supported, and every family comforted.

You Can Choose the Difference You Make

A common misconception is that gifts in Wills must go into a general pot – but in fact, they can be restricted to an area that matters most to you. Whether you want to fund research into new treatments, offer emotional and practical support to families, or help reduce delays in diagnosis, your legacy can reflect your values and passions.

Every Legacy, Large or Small, Makes an Impact

Just 1% of your estate could help fund:

• New peer support groups across Yorkshire

• Emergency grants for families facing financial crisis after a diagnosis

• Ground-breaking research to improve survival and quality of life for those with brain tumours

We understand that leaving a gift in your Will is a deeply personal decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you'd like to talk to us in confidence about your wishes, or to request wording to share with your solicitor, please email us at fiona@yorksbtc.org.uk or call 0113 340 0111.

Together, we can make sure that no one faces a brain tumour alone – and that those we’ve loved and lost continue to change lives for the better.