We recently had the privilege to welcome Lady Williams’ grandson, Nick, and his husband, Spencer, to the Cancer Relief Centre for a very special visit to mark what would have been her 100th birthday.
Lady Williams was the visionary founder of our organisation. With a background in nursing, shaped by her service with the Canadian Red Cross during the Second World War, she was deeply committed to the wellbeing of others.
Her determination to create a safe and welcoming place for those facing the challenges of cancer laid the foundation for everything we do today. What began as her heartfelt mission has grown into a centre that offers not only professional practical support, but also emotional and holistic care — a place where people find understanding, comfort, and community during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Their visit included a tour of the Centre, led by our Chairwoman, Marisa Desoiza, who worked closely with Lady Williams in the charity’s founding years. Nick and Spencer had the opportunity to see how her legacy lives on through the wide range of services we now provide — from personalised nursing care to holistic therapies for patients and carers to day support and outreach programmes.
We then shared time together over cream tea, exchanging stories and memories of Lady Williams and warmly reflecting on the lasting impact she had on so many lives.
To mark the occasion, Nick and Spencer made a generous donation in her honour — a heartfelt tribute to a woman who gave so much to others. In their own words:
“[She] would be so happy and proud of the amazing and wonderful work you are doing, and the way you are continuing her legacy.”
We are deeply grateful to Nick and Spencer for their visit and kindness. It was a touching reminder of the strong roots on which Cancer Relief is built, and it reaffirmed our commitment to carrying Lady Williams’ legacy forward — continuing to support individuals and carers with care that sees the person, not just the diagnosis.
