START recently received its first bequest, from June Henderson, who passed away at the end of 2024 at the age of 91. In her will, June requested that the gift be used to support research into, and the development of, therapy approaches for children who stutter.
June’s late husband, Alan, who died in his early 50s, had a significant stutter. Their daughter, Christine, shared that while her father went on to become a successful businessman, growing up with a stutter had been really tough – something that clearly left a lasting impression on June.
As is often the case, START was not aware of the bequest beforehand, which didn’t surprise Christine. She described her mum as “someone who didn’t like to draw attention to herself, but who would have been delighted to know her gift will support children who stutter, giving them access to the support her husband didn’t have as a child”.
Christine also spoke of her mum’s independent and thoughtful nature. “She was someone who paid close attention, took things in, and made deliberate choices about what mattered to her. This bequest reflects her values and her quiet commitment to supporting others.”
START is honoured to receive this bequest as it will contribute to the development of more effective therapy for children who stutter.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to June for her generosity and to her family for sharing the story behind her gift.
Leaving a gift in your will to START, creates a legacy and helps future generations of children and young people who stutter.
To find out more about leaving a gift in your will click here.