Legacy gifts provide hope.

This spirit of giving has stayed with Lana Walsh throughout her life, including her 20-year career in the nonprofit sector. Here at the University of Alberta, Lana worked in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry’s Advancement Office, helping alumni and donors connect with groundbreaking research happening at the U of A. 

“In my work at the U of A, I saw that there are several chairs in cancer research that are underfunded. I had all of this life insurance and no kids or spouse to give it to. So, I decided to give some to support the U of A’s cancer research initiatives and endowed cancer chair fund because cancer has affected my family significantly. At the time I decided to make this gift, I was single, and that’s not the case anymore. But that has not changed my decision to give,” she shares.

For Lana, it’s important that when the time comes, her gift is flexible and up to the Dean’s discretion. 

She goes on to say, “cancer has affected many people in different ways. I don't want to be so prescriptive that it ties the Dean’s hands when it comes down to it. It could be 40 more years before the money comes in, and who knows where cancer research will be then.”

And while she realizes that her gift won’t have an impact for many years down the road, Lana says she feels fulfilled to have made this gift. 

“And I feel hopeful,” Lana adds. “For what the researchers can do with it, and what difference my gift will make for someone in the future. It’s about giving hope to people who need it. I’m grateful that I can do this. And I would encourage others to do the same. It’s so important that we do good things with our money. That good could be to take care of yourself and your family. But you can’t take it with you, so consider putting some aside for charity. It will help somebody down the road.”

We are very grateful for you too, Lana. Your gift will have a tremendous impact on cancer research and the lives of people living with cancer.