Keri’s powerful reason for leaving a gift in her Will
Keri’s mum was only 45 when she was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, an aggressive type of cancer in the glandular lining inside the organs. The doctors told her there was nothing they could do and suggested she head home to spend time with her family.
But that wasn’t an option her mum was willing to accept.
“I have a family,” she told them. “I’m not going home to die.”
That determination gave Keri two more precious years with her mum before she eventually died from cancer.
In another cruel blow, Keri’s dad also died from cancer years later.
The loss of both her parents left a lasting impact. Rather than letting grief define her, Keri chose to honour their memory by helping others affected by cancer.
“Every time I’m doing anything to raise funds, I’m thinking of my loved ones,” Keri says. “Mum and dad are with me – they’re always what drives me.”
Today, Keri is a huge supporter of Cancer Council NSW. She takes part in fundraising events including the Daffodil Dip and Dog Walk for Cancer, and donates whenever she can. For her, fundraising is about more than raising money. It’s about supporting a community that understands the realities of a cancer diagnosis and making a difference now.
That’s why, Keri has also chosen to leave a gift in her Will to Cancer Council NSW.
“I know it’ll go to good use,” she says. “Cancer’s not going to go away, but there’s always research that can be done. My gift can go towards equipment, medicines, knowledge and getting information out to people. The more people learn about cancer and treatments, the better.”
Like many generous supporters, Keri believes research holds the key to better outcomes. It drives new discoveries, improves treatments and gives families something invaluable: more time together. Giving now helps make that future possible.
Her decision to leave a gift in her Will reflects a commitment to creating a future where fewer families experience the pain she has known, and where support can continue for those who need it.
“There’s not one person I can think of who hasn’t been affected by cancer, either directly or through someone they love,” Keri says. “We all have a reason to give.”
For Keri, a gift in Will isn’t just about what she leaves behind. It’s about helping create hope for future generations and ensuring that lifesaving cancer research and support continue long into the future.
To learn more about gifts in Wills, read here.