As healthcare professionals, Mike and Sylvia understand that life can change unexpectedly. They have seen too many friends and family left to struggle with difficult decisions and knew they wanted to make things easier for their own loved ones.
With three adult children and a beloved dog, they decided not to postpone creating their will.
"We didn't want our children burdened with trying to figure out what Mom and Dad would have wanted."
For Mike and Sylvia, creating a will wasn't just about distributing assets. It was about giving the people they love three important gifts while supporting causes they believe in, like protecting the Driftless.
(Above: Mike and Sylvia O'Brien live next door to a nature preserve protected by the Conservancy. It’s important to them to support organizations making a difference in their community – and they can see it every day outside their window. Contributed photo)
THE GIFT OF CLARITY...
"It's guidance," Mike says. "It's helping your family know what you want."
A will provides clear instructions when loved ones need them most. Rather than leaving family members to guess about important decisions, Mike and Sylvia chose to put their wishes in writing.
THE GIFT OF SIMPLICITY...
Sylvia shared, "It's one less thing for them to worry about."
Grief is difficult enough without added confusion. By creating a will, Mike and Sylvia have helped simplify the future for their family and loved ones. Important decisions have already been considered and documented, allowing friends and family to focus on supporting one another instead of sorting through uncertainty.
THE GIFT OF LOVE...
"We can see the difference the Conservancy is making every day," Sylvia added.
By including the causes they care about in their will, Mike and Sylvia have communicated what they value the most. To them, it's important to protect the Driftless landscapes they love and hope future generations will enjoy.
Not sure where to start?
This Make a Will Month, consider the gifts your will can provide. By creating or updating your will, you can give your loved ones the same gifts as Mike and Sylvia: clarity, simplicity, and love.
Mike and Sylvia chose to include Mississippi Valley Conservancy in their will. Now they can enjoy each day knowing their gift will help ensure that the landscapes and wildlife they cherish today remain protected for future generations.
Make today the day you provide your loved ones with the gifts of clarity, simplicity, and love.
Not sure where to start? Consider using Giving Docs. This free service is trusted by Mississippi Valley Conservancy and provided to you free of charge with the support of Gathering Waters - Wisconsin’s Alliance for Land Trusts.
If you’ve chosen to include Mississippi Valley Conservancy in your future plans, please let us know by completing and sending this Bequest Form or sending an email to Development Director Shane Drey ([email protected]) so we can say thank you during your lifetime.
Thanks for all you make possible!