Making a will - Joyce's story

Joyce is 71 and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 13 years ago. She made a will through Parkinson’s UK and shares her story here.

Making a will is quite a hard thing to face and it took me a while to get around to making one. You’re thinking about when you’re not around anymore, and the impact that will have on your partner and others.

I talked it through with my husband, aunt and within the family first. It is something that we all need to consider doing.

Before I made my will, I thought carefully about who should act as my executor and administer my estate. I chose my husband and two of my cousins because I could trust them with this and they were happy to do it.

Joyce sitting in her lounge
Joyce at home

I then thought about the assets I have. This even included my caravan – if it’s still about! And the things that I hold dear, such as my jewellery and a big collection of craft items.

As well as including my friends and family in my will, I also decided to include a gift to Parkinson’s UK because I hope in a small way, this will help other people with Parkinson’s.

Writing my will also gave me the opportunity to have a say about my funeral arrangements. I would like to  be buried and for the people at my funeral to wear bright colours as I wouldn’t want it to be a sombre affair.

If I can give any advice, I would say, go ahead and do it. Once I’d thought about everything, it was easy to do. It didn’t take long and gives me peace of mind. At the end of the day, I feel like I’ve done something worthwhile.

Find out more about making a will.

Find out how to leave a gift in your will to Parkinson's UK.