“I was in hospital when I heard that 13 members of my family had passed away from Ebola.”: For almost a century, Save the Children has been doing whatever it takes for children living in poverty and danger.
Joshua, from Sierra Leone, had his life devastated by Ebola: “My younger brother died. Then I developed symptoms.
“I was in hospital when I received information that 13 members of my family had passed away. I was unable to be strong at that moment”, he remembers.
Help protect children like Joshua
When Joshua came home, he was partially blind and unable to walk or eat. But he was not alone. Thanks to the generosity of people just like you, we helped Joshua with the basics he needed to survive – food; utensils; a mattress. And we gave him someone to turn to – Child Protection Officer Konday Marah.
“Mr Marah has done lots of things for me” Joshua says, “We count on him like a family member.”
Just one year on, Joshua’s life and prospects have completely transformed. He’s playing football with his friends again and he’s thriving at school.
“I love school. I never thought I would go back. But Save the Children gave me a school bag, pens, books and a radio (to listen to lessons). If I am not educated, how will I take responsibility for the younger ones? There is only one person in my family who is educated now.”
Thanks to our amazing supporters, Joshua’s hard work is paying off. He came top of his class in economics, bringing him closer to fulfilling his ambition: “I want to be a bank manager. If I have the opportunity, I will help my family very much”.
Write a child’s smile into your will
While every donation we receive is hugely appreciated, gifts in wills are especially precious, because they have such an enduring impact. A gift of any size could help ensure that children like Joshua are protected, can learn and have a reason to smile long into the future.
Making this wonderful gesture is simple, and you can choose to give whichever way suits you best. Some people promise a percentage of their estate – even 1% can achieve so much. Others name a specific amount. Or you can give whatever you feel is right, once you have provided for your loved ones.
By remembering Save the Children in your will you’ll be ensuring that the values you hold dear will live on. And you’ll be giving vulnerable children a brighter future, and a reason to smile.
Help us to do whatever it takes:
If you’d like to find out more about leaving a gift in your will to Save the Children, please visit www.savethechildren.org.uk/smile, or contact a friendly member of our Gifts in Wills team on 020 7012 6400.