Work In Progress

 
Who we are

The Willow Foundation is the only charity of its kind providing special days for seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds throughout the UK.

Special days

Special days aim to give seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds a break from the stress and difficult realities of diagnosis and treatment. They offer the chance to spend quality time with family and friends doing something they will all enjoy and creating precious memories.

The charity defines seriously ill as any condition that is life-threatening. This includes cancer, motor neurone­disease, cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Huntington’s, organ failure and many others. All applications must meet the charity’s medical criteria and be endorsed by a medical professional involved in the individual’s care.

Willow strives to create a unique and unforgettable day that is tailored to the needs and dreams of every beneficiary. He or she chooses exactly what they would like to do on their special day and Willow aims to meet and, wherever possible, exceed their expectations, making the day truly special and memorable.

Some of the most popular special day requests to date have included: West End shows and pop concerts; tickets to sporting events such as Premiership football and International rugby; trips to the country and city breaks; days at health spas; driving experiences and family days out to top UK attractions.

Following a discussion with the beneficiary and their family, the charity takes care of every arrangement, including transport, to ensure a stress free and enjoyable day for all.

To date, Willow has provided more than 6,000 special days for seriously ill young people.

Who we are

How it all began

The Willow Foundation was founded in 1999 by Bob and Megs Wilson as a lasting memorial to their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged 31. Bob Wilson is the former Arsenal and Scotland goalkeeper and TV presenter.

Anna battled cancer for five years. Yet it was during these years that she, her family and friends, experienced some of their most memorable moments and quality times - treats, days out, concert trips and time simply spent together.

The charity's name, Willow, stems from Anna's nickname and its aim is to replicate the positive impact special days had on both Anna and her family for other seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds throughout the UK.