Mr David Brownbill

Helen Glare did not know anything of the National Stroke Foundation until she was asked to give a donation in lieu until after her aunt died many years ago.

When her beloved mother Katrine, who Helen describes as “adored – she was my best friend”, also died of a stroke in1998, reliving the devastating experience of stroke led her to become a regular donor and volunteer with the NSF.

Sometime in the evening after Helen’s regular visit to her mother, Katrine suffered a severe stroke.

She was found the next morning. Helen feels that if her mother had the opportunity to get help quickly, she may have survived.

Helen has recently made provision in her will, in honour ofher mother, to leave a bequest to the NSF, boosting her contribution to what she describes as “a very important organisation doing great work.”

Helen says she is proud to be a donor and to contribute to a better life for future generations of Australians. By leaving a bequest to the NSF, Helen joined the David Brownbill Society.

As a member of this group she enjoys regular lunches and afternoon teas with a variety of interesting guest speakers.

“I believe stroke as a condition is chronically overlooked,”Helen says. “Something like breast cancer has so much support and gets so much publicity … I would like to see more support and publicity for stroke as it kills more people.”

Helen has worked as a volunteer for the NSF as a Strokesafe ambassador – educating community groups about stroke, how to prevent it and the FAST message.

Helen says she is passionate about making sure as many people as possible know that a stroke is preventable and acting fast can save a life or reduce disability.

A proud mother and grandmother, Helen, who lives at Laranear Geelong in Victoria, was a theatre nurse before she retired and so saw stroke in her work.

“What happens to the families afterwards is so devastating,” Helen says. “I’m determined to do my best to improve outcomes for everyone by supporting the NSF.”

Donors who leave a bequest to the NSF as part of their will may choose to leave a percentage of their estate or a specific dollar amount. If you would like more information about leaving a bequest or attending a David Brownbill Society function in your area, please call our donor liaison team on1300 194 196 or email bequest@strokefoundation.com.au