Mackenzie’s story: a young mum’s legacy of hope
Mackenzie never imagined that creating her first Will would become an act of hope.
In her mid-twenties, with a young family and her future ahead of her, Mackenzie was focused on making practical decisions to protect the people she loved most. Writing a Will was one of those important steps.
When the online Will platform asked if she’d like to leave a gift to a charity close to her heart, Mackenzie realised she had the chance to create a legacy of care and hope. One that could live on far beyond her own lifetime.
“I wanted to make sure my family would be looked after,” Mackenzie explains. “But more than that, I realised this was a chance to be part of something bigger than just myself.”
For Mackenzie, the choice was clear. She included a gift in her Will to FightMND.
A family tradition of support
Mackenzie grew up in a family of passionate AFL supporters. Each year the Big Freeze was a time for her family to come together to support the fight against the Beast. For Mackenzie, the work of FightMND and the incredible strength of the FightMND Army was an inspiration.
“I’ve grown up watching and supporting the amazing work FightMND do, and I admire the generosity of their community,” she says. “While I don’t have a personal connection to MND, I am especially inspired by Neale’s story and empowered to support such a meaningful cause.”
Today, as a new mum to baby Gracie, Mackenzie is excited to pass on the values of community to her daughter, and provide hope to the next generation for a future free from MND.
The power of perspective
Although Mackenzie is lucky to have no personal experience with MND, she understands the profound impact her future gift could have.
“I am so grateful to have a healthy family and have deep sympathy for those who are living with, or who have lost a loved one to MND,” she reflects. “I hope that by leaving a gift in my Will, one day all families will know MND as a treatable, even curable disease.”
This perspective embodies exactly what makes FightMND’s community so powerful. It’s people like Mackenzie, who choose to fight even when the battle isn’t their own, who are helping to create the breakthroughs we need.
A message to young families
Mackenzie has an important message for other young people. Don’t wait to plan for the future and don’t underestimate the impact you can have.
“So many young people don’t consider creating a Will, but knowing that I will make an impact long into the future is such a great feeling,” she says. “Choosing a few charities that hold a special place in my heart is such a feel-good move, and I’m proud to have set aside a gift for FightMND.”
Her advice is simple, “Everyone should consider a gift in their Will and enjoy the good karma coming their way afterwards!”
Building a legacy of hope
Mackenzie’s decision represents something profound. A young person choosing to invest in a future she may never see. For families she may never meet. Mackenzie joins many of our supporters who have made similar commitments, creating a powerful foundation for FightMND’s ongoing mission.
“It is a special feeling to be a part of something bigger than just myself, and I am grateful to be able to leave a donation to FightMND” she says.
The ripple effect
Mackenzie’s story reminds us that the fight against MND isn’t just about those directly affected by the disease. It’s about an entire community, young and old, who believe in the power of hope.
Every gift in a Will, no matter the size, helps support vital MND research and programs supporting Australians affected by MND. It’s supporters like Mackenzie who help ensure this work continues. Building towards a day when no family faces the devastating impact of MND.
As Mackenzie looks toward the future with her young family, she carries the knowledge that her legacy will extend far beyond her own lifetime. A legacy of hope, community and the unwavering belief that together, we can beat the Beast.
Including a gift in Your Will
Like Mackenzie, you can make a lasting impact for families affected by MND. After providing for your loved ones, you might consider including a gift in your Will to FightMND by consulting your solicitor or creating an online Will. Just as Mackenzie chose to turn her Will into an act of hope for future generations, your gift can help fund pioneering research, support clinical trials, and provide better treatments for people living with MND.Until 30 September, FightMND is offering you the opportunity to secure your family’s future with an online Will through Safewill and Willed. Both Safewill and Willed offer a simple platform with step-by-step instructions. Please note that after 12 months, a subscription fee will apply. Terms and conditions are available on the Safewill and Willed websites.
If you’d like to explore the impact your gift could make, our Gifts in Wills Coordinator, Eloise Shepherd, is available for a confidential discussion at [email protected] or (03) 7052 7004.
Be inspired by Mackenzie’s choice today and leave your own mark on the fight against MND.