I have a degree in Agricultural Science and a PhD focused on plant genetic engineering. Over time, I realised I loved the world of science communication and started work with CSIRO Publishing. This was followed by a period as editor at Nature, then with the New York Academy of Sciences.

After seven years in New York, we moved back to Australia, and I became a bequests manager. This enabled me to promote research to both existing bequestors and people considering leaving a bequest.

Through this experience, I realised that I too could make a difference by including a gift in my Will, over and above what I could support with annual donations.

I chose WEHI because they ‘punch above their weight’ as a research institute, and extra support will help them take the research to the next level.

Through reading Illuminate over a number of years, I’m aware how much great work is being done at WEHI. I learnt about work being done on prevention, early detection and slowing the progress of many debilitating conditions.

I’m confident that WEHI has a critical mass working on medical research on many fronts.

My family is very supportive of the choices I’ve made. My children know they will receive some of my estate, but not all. They’re on board!

I would encourage anyone to consider leaving a gift in their Will. Think about what changes you want to see in the world and then look for organisations like WEHI, working to bring about those changes.