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The Willow Foundation
Who They Are
The Willow Foundation was founded in 1999 by Bob and Megs Wilson in memory of their daughter, Anna who died of cancer at the age of 31. 'Willow' was the nickname that both Anna and her father, Bob, shared (you may recognise Bob Wilson, former Scotland and Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter).
Anna was a community nurse based
in Hertfordshire, England, when she was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer, malignant schwannoma, at the age of 26. During the five years that followed she was to endure 16 major operations and numerous treatments and therapies. However, it was during these challenging years that Anna, her family and friends experienced some of their most memorable moments and quality times together.
Anna found that when she had something to look forward to, her pain was reduced, her spirits lifted and she'd feel better. Treats, days out, concerts, shopping trips and just being with friends, simple distractions from her illness, gave Anna the adrenalin, strength and determination to keep fighting. She wanted quality of life, quality of time and most importantly, when she became ill, she wanted to be treated as 'normal'.
The Willow Foundation's aim is to replicate the positive impact that Special Days had on both Anna and her family during her treatment, by providing the same opportunities for other seriously ill young adults throughout the UK.
Click to hear about the impact of Special Days from recipients.
In 2003 the Wilsons stepped back from the day-to-day running of the charity, however Bob Wilson remains a trustee and Megs Wilson is Founder President. They're both still heavily involved in fundraising activities and are kept informed of every Special Day organised.
What They Do
The Willow Foundation is the only charity of its kind providing Special Days for 16-40 year olds. Special Days aim to provide young adults living with life-threatening conditions a chance to escape the pressures of their daily routine, share quality time with loved ones and create wonderful memories for the future. Hear about the impact of Special Days from recipients.
Every Special Day is chosen by the recipient and tailor made to their specific needs. The Willow Foundation endeavours to fulfil each request, however imaginative, and whenever possible to exceed expectations.
To date, the charity has organised and funded Special Days for young adults living with a wide range of serious conditions including: cancer, motor neurone disease, cystic fibrosis, Huntingdon's, organ failure and later stages of multiple sclerosis. Their long term aim is to be able to offer a Special Day to every seriously ill young adult in the UK.
