Why Mary has chosen to support the future care of Island kids
In her 80s, Mary is sharp as a tack with a warm energy and an enviable memory. Having lived a life like hers, making her way around the world, it’s no wonder.
Born in northern England, Mary faced profound loss at a young age when both her parents passed away, leaving her and her brother to find their own path. She trained as a nurse in London and made her way to Montreal shortly thereafter to work and live with extended family.
Mary’s work as a nurse and midwife took her from city hospitals to health clinics to remote nursing stations, spending time in the Northwest Territories, New Zealand, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. Mary served communities with dedication—delivering babies, supporting families, and building connections despite language barriers.
Eventually, Mary settled in Victoria, where through her volunteer efforts with the Sisters of St. Ann, she became familiar with the work of the Queen Alexandra Centre in supporting children with complex physical and mental health challenges.
Mary has followed our work ever since. And as our Foundation’s focus has evolved to support families across Vancouver Island who need to travel for their child’s health care, it reinforced what Mary has long known – that health outcomes for kids are strongest when there is stability, access, and a strong support system in place.
As she explained, “I see a great need for families to have a place like Jeneece Place to come to. With all the stresses that these parents have, wondering how are they going to cope, this home connects them beautifully with the Victoria General Hospital and all the facilities that are there.”
“And some children need not just medical care, but physical apparatus to function,” Mary continues. “And with support from the Foundation they’re fitted with devices that make their lives better, and they’re able to go to school, partake in activities with their peers. I’m just glad I can do something in my life to help.”
With no immediate family to inherit her estate, Mary has chosen to leave a legacy gift to the Foundation to help future generations of Island kids. “Why not channel it into children whom I really think will benefit?” she said.
Her message to families is simple yet powerful:
“Never give up… give them love.”
Mary’s legacy will mean that Island families can do just that for years to come.
You can join Mary in leaving a meaningful legacy. As we mark our 100th anniversary in 2027, we’re inviting our supporters to make a special pledge to Island kids by arranging a planned or legacy gift in celebration of this milestone year. Learn more and join us today.
