Bequest story: Maureen McIlroy

Maureen McIlroy is a celebrated supporter of Murdoch Children's Research Institute. 

Maureen McIlroy’s gift will one day make a difference to children doing it tough in low-resource countries.

Maureen has fond memories of growing up.

“I remember the fun and excitement of those days – even though we didn’t have much, we had great fun together, playing with all the children along the street.”

It was while travelling in her early 20s that Maureen realised that not all kids get to enjoy a childhood like hers, “I saw kids who, just because of where they were born, weren’t able to enjoy that sort of carefree and fun childhood.”

Maureen is still an avid traveller and while planning a recent overseas trip, decided it was also time to get her Will up to date.

“Not long before then I had been on a visit to the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. I’d heard from these brilliant researchers about the work they are doing in Melbourne that’s making such a difference around the world. It made me think – if there’s anything left after I’ve remembered my family, why not put it to good use?”

Her memories of seeing children around the world growing up in tough conditions meant that she found inspiration in MCRI’s work to change outcomes in global health. Maureen discussed her idea with her nieces who agreed that it was a “very worthy” decision and from there it was easy to arrange with her solicitor.