If it’s important to you — put it in your will
Stephani Agg first became involved with the Canadian Cancer Society as a volunteer in 1986. What began as an interest to support those fighting cancer evolved into a 30-year career and lasting legacy. Stephani’s transition from volunteer to employee to monthly supporter and legacy donor came simply enough: she saw first-hand the incredible progress that was being made to prevent cancer, find it early and treat it more successfully. Plus she’d come to know personally those who benefited from the support that the Canadian Cancer Society provides.
When Stephani and her husband first made their wills over a decade ago, the decision to include the Canadian Cancer Society as a beneficiary was a natural one. She approached the Estate & Gift Planning team who assisted with names of lawyers to contact and provided them with estate planning information. Stephani also knew that her gift would be spent wisely. “I have so much optimism in the work that CCS does. The research grants and support programs we fund – they all make a huge difference in the lives of those living with cancer. I am proud to support CCS through my legacy gift.”
This year, Stephani will retire from the Canadian Cancer Society. She intends to spend a lot more time with her horse Magellan and will re-join CCS as a committed volunteer supporting the organization. Now widowed, she plans to revise her will and other documents to ensure that her affairs are organized. She needs to update her executor, name a caregiver for her horse and retain the Canadian Cancer Society as residue beneficiary.
“Having a will gives me peace of mind that everything important to me will be taken care of once I am gone.”
Major life changes such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, retirement and death of a spouse necessitate a review of your will and documents such as Power of Attorney and Power of Representation. Making sure your will is up-to-date and reflects the things that are most important to you is both good financial planning and a great way to leave a lasting legacy.