In Memory of Amanda: Peter's legacy of love and hope

Amanda, Peter’s first wife, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 1990. However, she refused to let the illness define or limit her. Known for her resilience and tenacity, Amanda approached life with a fierce determination. She wanted to remain active and positive, regardless of the challenges MS presented.

'She fought the illness and was determined not to let it define her or limit her life,' Peter remembers.

Yet, there were days when the obstacles of MS weighed heavily on her, and Peter saw firsthand the toll it could take. 'Sometimes, it did limit her, which caused immense frustration,' he reflects. Peter noted how deeply it impacted him to see her struggle. For Peter, MS wasn’t just an illness – it was an unfair battle that he and Amanda faced together.

Tragically, Amanda’s life was cut short over a decade ago in a car accident. The loss was unexpected. Peter’s admiration for her strength and determination stayed with him. Knowing how unpredictable life can be, he was inspired to honour her memory by supporting others with MS.

Through a gift in his Will to MS Plus, Peter has found a meaningful way to keep Amanda’s legacy alive. 'I see it as a dedication to Amanda,' he says. 'There are so many worthwhile causes, but I chose MS because it chose Amanda.'

Peter’s journey began in Nhill, Victoria. Here he spent his early years on a farm before moving to Frankston with his family. Growing up in a hard-working family, he later pursued a career in finance, dedicating 40 years to the industry. Now retired, Peter volunteers at a regional hospital. He also enjoys life on a farm with his wife, Margaret. Here they are surrounded by animals, including a beloved horse named Astro – a cherished connection to Amanda, as Astro was once her own.

Peter’s decision to leave a gift in his Will to MS Plus brings him peace. He knows that Amanda’s memory will continue to inspire others. 'My wife Margaret is most understanding of this wish,' he says. He is grateful to have her support in honouring Amanda in a way that will make a difference for those living with MS.

Could you be like Peter and want to protect future generations from MS? And pay a special tribute to a person in your life? You can do all this through a gift in your Will. This gift could help fund research, better treatments, or more services.

Become a member of the MS Callistemon League. To learn more, contact Laura at the MS Plus Future Planning Team. Call 1800 443 867, email futureplanning@msplus.org.auopens in new tab or visit www.mymslegacy.org.auopens in new tab