Willow Foundation

Who we are

Our Vision: young adults with life threatening illness and those close to them are able to take full advantage of what life has to offer.

Our Mission: to provide for young adults with life threatening illness and those close to them the motivation to take full advantage of life through memorable Special Days.

Our Values: we are caring; we are all about special relationships; we cherish people and time; they are our most precious resources; and we have the courage to imagine otherwise.

ABOUT WILLOW

Willow is the only national charity working with seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40 to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days, Special Breaks and Special Treats. Our service enables beneficiaries and their families to reconnect and refocus on each other, creating memories they will all treasure forever.

For some their Special Day is the opportunity to return some normality to their lives. For others it is the last chance to fulfil a dream. But for all, at what is the most difficult of times, a Special Day is a life-affirming experience that can lift spirits, reunify families and be a source of strength when it’s needed most.

Each special day, break or treat provides a positive experience to be shared with a partner, parents, siblings, children or close friends. To date, Willow has provided more than 20,500 special days, breaks and treats for young adults diagnosed with a life-threatening condition such as cancer, motor neurone disease, cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease. 

Founded by former Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife, Megs, Willow is a lasting memorial to their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged 31. Anna’s love of life and the enriching experiences of her own Special Days were the charity’s inspiration.

Willow is totally reliant on the generosity of individuals, companies, trusts and foundations to fund its work.