| The
Willow Foundation was founded in 1999 by former Arsenal and Scotland
goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife, Megs, in memory
of their daughter, Anna who died of cancer shortly before her 32nd
birthday. The charity's name, Willow, stems from Anna's nickname
and its aim is to replicate the positive impact special days had
on both Anna and her family during her treatment.
In 2003 the Wilsons stepped back from the day to day running of
the charity however, they remain trustees, with Megs taking the
position of chair. They are both heavily involved in fundraising
activities and are kept informed on every special day organised
- writing to each recipient wishing them well and taking a great
interest in their photographs and letters.
Anna, a community nurse based in Hertfordshire, was diagnosed as
having the very rare form of cancer, malignant schwannoma, at the
age of 26. Over the next five years she was to have 16 major operations,
numerous treatments and therapies.Yet it was during these years
that Anna, her family and friends experienced some of their most
memorable moments and quality times together. When Anna had something
to look forward to, her pain was reduced, her spirits lifted and
she would feel better. Treats, days out, concerts, shopping trips
and just being with friends - simple distractions from her illness
- gave Anna the determination and adrenalin to fight on. She wanted
quality of life, quality of time and most importantly, when she
became ill, she wanted to be treated as normal. It is these experiences
that the Foundation aims to replicate through the provision of special
days for other seriously ill young adults living throughout the
UK. |
