A Somerset woman is encouraging others to leave a legacy that could help families in their most difficult moments.
Vida Jackson is urging people to consider leaving a gift in their will to St Margaret’s Hospice, which cared for her late husband Nigel during his final weeks.
He was diagnosed with an aggressive, inoperable cancer that had spread to his liver and lung.
Mrs Jackson said: "St Margaret’s were amazing.
"I couldn’t have wished for better care.
"I could go home and get some sleep knowing that he was being cared for 24/7.
"The team were like angels on earth, right to the very end."
Having seen the impact of their care, she has pledged a gift to the hospice in her own will.
St Margaret’s Hospice supports more than 5,000 people across Somerset each year, providing specialist care that costs around £15m annually.
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Gifts left in wills now fund care for one in three of its patients.
Nigel was admitted to the hospice’s In-Patient Unit in October 2023.
For Mrs Jackson, knowing he was in safe hands allowed her to step back from her role as carer and focus on being his wife.
She is now hopeful others will consider leaving a legacy to help the hospice continue its work for future generations.
Kim Gaylard, committed giving manager at the hospice, said: "Gifts of any size can make a difference.
"We understand that family and loved ones come first when you’re considering making your will, but any gift left to St Margaret’s will help us continue to be there for the next generation."
St Margaret’s also offers a free simple will-writing service for those looking to write or update their will, with no obligation to leave a gift to the hospice.
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