Nov 4, 2024

Envisioning a Path to Hope—by Leaving a Legacy Gift

“I knew at six weeks that something was wrong.” Nora Cooper will never forget the start of her journey to find a diagnosis for her son, Michael. It was 50 years ago. She was a single parent, and unwavering in her quest for an answer.

It wasn’t until Michael was in his early teens that they identified the cause of his deteriorating vision—retinitis pigmentosa (RP). During Nora’s search for information, she discovered Fighting Blindness Canada (FBC) and began attending educational seminars.

As Nora learned how FBC raises and directs funds to accelerate the development and availability of treatments and cures for blinding eye diseases, she started making regular donations. Inspired by FBC’s mission and the latest research, she eventually became a monthly donor. To further demonstrate her long-term commitment to advancing strategic research and education, Nora dedicated a gift to Fighting Blindness Canada in her Will.

There is currently no effective treatment for Michael, who is now a senior director at a major financial institution. However, Nora remains relentless in her support for the cause. She says she would like to see the disease eradicated and a future where everybody has vision. “I think it’s so important that the research continues.

“It felt so good to make the decision to leave a gift in my Will.”

Nora’s message to those who are considering a legacy gift to FBC is that it’s not difficult to do, and that the amount is not important. She also notes that her legacy gift has had no financial impact on her quality of life today and will result in tax advantages for her estate, which may ultimately benefit her family.

Ultimately, it’s a gift of hope. “While it’s unknown whether a cure in Michael’s lifetime is likely, I am hopeful that there will be one for future generations”, says Nora. “This gift is for them.”

We are grateful to Nora for envisioning this and making us part of her legacy.

To learn how you can leave a gift to Fighting Blindness Canada in your Will, contact us at legacy@fightingblindness.ca.