Honouring her Dad’s legacy: Wendy and Norm’s story
A fit and healthy father of four, Wendy’s Dad, Norm, was always on the go. Working as a fitter and turner, he ran every day, cycled, played basketball and squash. Most importantly, Norm was a generous family man, helping raise Wendy and her brothers. Wendy’s favourite memory of her Dad was when she sat on his knee and Norm would wrap his arms protectively around her.
Much of the family’s time revolved around soccer. A true family affair, the kids played at the local club and Mum helped run the canteen. Norm also played a big role at the club as team manager. A role he held since the establishment of the club in the early 70s.
When Norm was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, it was the soccer community that banded together to provide their support.
A MND diagnosis
Norm was diagnosed with MND in 1986. He noticed that something was different after falling when running to catching the train into the city. Back then there wasn’t much awareness or understanding about MND. Wendy remembers her family desperately looking for information about MND. Frantic to learn about the Beast that had descended upon their lives.
MND quickly wreaked havoc on Norm’s strong body. He was admitted to palliative care shortly after his diagnosis. Wendy remembers travelling 40 kilometres to see her Dad at every opportunity she had.
Over the last 12 months of his life, Norm lost his ability to speak and needed Wendy’s mum to help with eating. He was a prisoner in his own body and had to rely on people for the smallest task, which caused him great frustration.
Although it is painful for Wendy to remember what her Dad went through, she recalls the kindness of the nursing staff with great fondness. With their help Wendy’s family were able to bring the family dog to visit Norm as well as organising a surprise 30th wedding anniversary for her parents.
Norm died 18 months following his diagnosis. He was only 55 years old.
Wendy’s daughter shares Norm’s birthday. A bittersweet reminder of everything he missed out on because of MND. Together, Wendy and her daughter visit where Norm’s ashes are scattered. They purchase Big Freeze Beanies every year and donate what they would have spent on his birthday and Christmas gifts to FightMND.
Honouring Norm’s legacy with a gift in her Will
In remembrance of Norm, Wendy has decided to leave a gift in her Will to FightMND. Her decision is a deeply personal way for her to make a lasting impact in the fight against MND.
Wendy says “You never know when this could affect you or somebody you love dearly in the future. Any little bit would help to find a cure.”
Norm’s story is a powerful reminder of why a gift in Will to FightMND is so important. It has been many years since Norm passed away. But, the lasting impact MND has on families like Wendy’s highlights the urgent need for research and support.
Including a gift in your Will
By including a gift in your Will to FightMND, you’re investing in a future where families like Wendy’s don’t have to endure the heartbreak of watching a loved one become a prisoner in their own body.
A gift in your Will to FightMND is the gift of better treatments and therapies for people living with MND. It is an investment into a future without MND.
Until 18 September, FightMND is offering you the opportunity to secure your family’s future with an online Will through Safewill, normally $160.
Safewill’s simple platform provides step-by-step instructions, with each Will reviewed by a practicing Australian solicitor for peace of mind. After 12 months, a subscription fee will apply. Safewill’s terms and conditions are available on their website.
Our gift in Wills page has more information about how you can leave a gift in your Will. We would love to hear from you so if you have any questions please reach out to Eloise Shepherd our Gifts in Wills Coordinator at [email protected] or 03 7052 7004.