Some people leave behind memories. Others leave behind a legacy that continues to make a difference long after they’re gone.

Loma MacDonald was one of those people. She didn’t have children of her own, but she spent her life surrounded by them. She shared an unbreakable bond with her best friend, Teresa Pelli, and was like family to Teresa’s children. 

Loma and her late husband, Norman, were deeply committed to helping others. After retiring, they began volunteering at their local hospital, an experience that profoundly touched them. When the time came to plan their Will, they knew exactly what they wanted—to leave a gift that would support sick children. 

“Even though Loma and Norman didn’t have children, they always had children in their lives,” Teresa recalls. “They believed in giving back, and leaving a gift to a children’s charity felt like the right thing to do.”  

When Loma passed away, Teresa, as the executor of her estate, carried out her dear friend’s wishes, ensuring her final act of generosity reached SCHF.  

“It speaks volumes about Loma—her kindness, her generosity in life and beyond,” Teresa shares. “All she needed to know was that her gift would help children.” 

Loma’s generosity didn’t just change the lives of sick kids—it also changed Teresa’s. Inspired by her friend’s legacy, Teresa began volunteering at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Twice a week, she dedicates her evenings to comforting parents and supporting babies in the Edgar Stephens Ward, many of whom have heart conditions. 

“The human touch is so important,” Teresa says. “Parents need support, and that doesn’t stop at five o’clock.” 

Looking back, Teresa sees a clear connection between managing Loma’s estate and discovering her own purpose. “I had thought about volunteering for years,” she reflects. “But it wasn’t until I handed over Loma’s gift and toured the hospital that I knew I needed to be part of this."

Loma’s story is a powerful reminder that the kindness we show today can shape the future for sick kids. Whether through a generous gift in a Will or dedicating time to support families, every act of giving touches the lives of those who need it most. 

By leaving just 5% of your estate to SCHF, you can help shape the future of kids yet to journey through our corridors and create a lasting impact on the landscape of paediatric healthcare.  

Leave a gift. Build your legacy. Change the future for sick kids. 

To learn more about leaving a gift in your Will, call 1800 770 122 or email the Planned Giving Team, plannedgiving@schf.org.au.