Dr. Frances Rawle, driven by the profound question of what mark she wished to leave on the world, chose to include the Medical Research Foundation in her Will. After a distinguished career in science, she recognized the transformative power of medical research. Yet, she also understood the impossibility of predicting future health challenges, prompting her to seek a solution that offered flexibility and foresight in addressing unforeseen needs decades from now.

Her decision was shaped by the Medical Research Foundation’s unique approach: it is not confined to a single medical condition. Instead, its team of experts vigilantly identifies emerging health issues and strategically funds the research most likely to tackle them, thereby cultivating the scientific advancements upon which future generations will rely. Frances articulated her confidence, stating, “By the time my donation reaches the Foundation, it’s impossible to know the biggest health challenges we’ll be facing – but I know it will be focused on areas with the greatest need when the time comes.”

Dr. Rawle, who served as Director of Policy, Ethics and Governance for the MRC and was responsible for its governance and accountability, made her initial gift to the Medical Research Foundation in 2018. Having spent nearly three decades working at the Medical Research Council (MRC) before her retirement in 2021, the Foundation, an independent charity formed by the MRC, held a special significance for her. She was consistently impressed by its singular focus on funding research, particularly in areas lacking sufficient support.

The Foundation’s commitment extends beyond specific diseases or conditions, enabling it to invest where the need is most acute. This adaptive strategy has seen it support critical research across a diverse spectrum of issues, including eating disorders and self-harm, antimicrobial resistance, viral and autoimmune hepatitis, and even global crises like COVID-19. This flexibility ensures that donations contribute to the most impactful research at any given time.

Crucially, the Medical Research Foundation operates independently, receiving no government support and relying on gifts in Wills for approximately 90% of its spending. Beyond targeting neglected and underfunded research areas, the Foundation plays a vital role in supporting early-career scientists. These scientists often face significant hurdles in securing the necessary funding to continue their groundbreaking work, making the Foundation's support indispensable.

Frances, acutely aware of the challenges faced by budding researchers, emphasized the importance of this timely intervention. She noted, “Funding at this time can determine the area of research they end up in, and without it, they can be forced to leave science altogether.” By awarding funding during this critical period, the Foundation empowers these scientists to become leaders in their fields, enabling them to drive research forward for many years to come and contribute to the science that future generations will depend on.

Among the Foundation's current research priorities are tackling the health impacts of climate change, addressing neglected areas of mental health, and improving the lives of children and young people. Regardless of future health crises, Frances is certain that her pledged contribution will significantly aid in confronting them.

She encourages others considering a gift in their Will to reflect on their values and desired legacy. “If science or medical research has been one of those things, then the Foundation is an excellent home for your donation,” she advises. For Frances, her gift is a commitment to fostering a healthier world for everyone, irrespective of the challenges the future may hold. The Medical Research Foundation invites individuals to leave a legacy of medical research, highlighting that a small bequest can fund research with the greatest potential impact, as guided by scientific experts. Including a gift in a Will is straightforward and considered a highly effective investment in the health of future generations, with a free Will writing service available through the Foundation’s partnership with Octopus Legacy.