With the impeccable timing you would expect from such an accomplished opera singer, Russell Watson chose the end of Remember A Charity Week (Sept 11-17) to reveal he had created a new medley of his songs to be released posthumously for Worldwide Cancer Research.
The 56-year-old Englishman, who has survived two brain tumours, has written the compilation into his Will as a gift for to help fund research into new cures.
He said he wanted to help others overcome a life-threatening diagnosis just as he did.
Russell had a brain tumour in 2006 and then again the following year. “My diagnosis changed everything. All I could think about was how my wife and daughters would survive without me,” he said.
“Often when we are writing Wills, we think about those closest to us. But a Will, much like a piece of music, has the power to touch the lives of so many more.”
As a firm, we at KWW Solicitors are very happy to promote the impact and importance of charitable gifts in Wills.
Jack Haskew, head of our private client team, which specialises in Wills, lasting powers of attorney and probate, applauded Russell Watson for helping to remove the taboo around post-life planning.
“Large or small, every charitable gift can help make a vital difference to charitable services,” said Jack.
According to the organisers of Remember A Charity, in recent times, legacy gifts have rescued charities from closure and are currently funding:
· 6 in 10 RNLI lifeboat rescue launches
· More than one-third of Marie Curie’s hospice care
· Care for one in three of the animals that come to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
New research shows that more than six in 10 UK adults – and almost half (46%) of the over 40s – have not yet written a Will, a figure which is concerning.
“Having a professional help you write your Will should not be seen as anything other than a positive and empowering move,” said Jack Haskew.
“It is an opportunity to make sure your wishes are carried out and that all those things you care about can be looked after you are gone.
“Aside from taking care of your loved ones and including a gift to your favourite charity, we can also advise you about mitigating any Inheritance Tax liabilities.”
