Helen Cody on the importance of giving back
The Irish designer’s experience with cancer opened her eyes to new ways of helping others
Creating a will is a daunting prospect for most, but one bright side is that it can be an opportunity to do something positive.
Before being diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2018, Irish designer Helen Cody did not have a will. She decided to create one to ensure her husband did not have any undue stress in the event of her passing, but she also realised it was the opportunity to give back to charities that supported her during the most challenging time in her life.
ARC Cancer Services offers a range of therapies and supports to those affected by cancer and their immediate family. Helen found that counselling and complementary therapies helped her to get through the challenges of chemotherapy.
Since then, she has not only arranged fashion shows and art exhibitions that have raised over €100,000 for the charity, she has also decided to leave a legacy gift to charity in her will.
“Charity work has always been extremely important to me and to so many others in our communities. Now more than ever, I think that leaving a legacy gift is something we should all consider,” Helen said at the launch of My Legacy Month.
“We never know when our friends and family will need to lean on the support of a charity. Personally, ARC Cancer Services gave me immense support at a time when I’ve never felt more vulnerable and they continue to do brilliant work throughout the Covid-19 crisis. No matter how big or small, a legacy gift will make a big difference in the future to a cause you care about,” she says.
Having been established in 2006 by a small group of charities, My Legacy has since grown to a group of 70 Irish charities. Legacy gifts left to these charities are tax-free and no matter how big or small a gift is, it makes a huge difference to those charities, particularly in a year that has been challenging for all.
Amending your will is easy, and since the beginning of the pandemic solicitors are also now taking instructions for wills over the phone. Legacy gifts can also be processed online.
To find out more, visit MyLegacy.ie.
