Murray’s legacy
When Murray Dear was in his late 30’s he started to feel unwell. A visit to the doctor revealed he had developed late onset type 1 diabetes. Feeling bewildered and looking for help, he attended an information meeting, which launched his long association with Diabetes NZ and one that will endure after his lifetime.
“After my wife died, I decided I needed to think about what my legacy was going to be. I really want people who are affected by diabetes, whether that’s children, parents, older people, partners, to have access to the best possible information so they can manage their health and get the very best out of life.”
Murray also wants to ensure that the advocacy work of Diabetes NZ continues after his lifetime. “I’ve seen so much inequity in how the health condition is managed. It isn’t right that people on low incomes can’t afford blood glucose monitors, which is really an effective tool to self-management. I want to see my legacy used to help advocate for more Government funding for people who need the right tools to live better lives.”
For Murray, leaving a gift in his Will is also a way to give back to young people who are just starting their lives and their journey with managing diabetes. “Diabetes can be all consuming, so I really want to ensure that young people have the information and the tools they need to manage their condition, so it only ever becomes just a small part of their lives.”
“For me, leaving a gift in my Will is a way to leave something behind that makes a positive difference to people and that’s how I want to be remembered.”