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A JOURNEY OF HOPE www.therosemaryproject.co.nz The service, which initially launched in February to help people record video wills, has since expanded into full memoir recordings. These videos capture a person’s life story in their own words, preserving memories that might otherwise fade. One recent participant was a 72-year-old woman from Wānaka who recorded her story for her family and future generations. “My mother died young, and I couldn’t find things out [about her],” she said. “It’s good to have it in one spot for future generations.” She spoke of her immigration from South Africa at age six and the moves that shaped her upbringing. “I think it was quite important to record different things … putting my life in a nutshell.” The Rosemary Project also aims to bring new meaning to the legal process of will-making. Co-owner and barrister David Fraundorfer says video wills can complement legal documents, helping reduce disputes and honour people’s true intentions. “During a will dispute, the most critical witness isn’t in the room,” Fraundorfer said. “It would be good to have the person talking about what they really wanted.” He believes video recordings can shift the focus from rigid legal proceedings to something more personal and celebratory. “A video is a lot more expressive,” he said. “It allows people to explain their decisions properly rather than in a couple of lines written down.” For Howard, every recorded story is a way to help others avoid the regret he felt at his grandfather’s funeral—and a way to leave a legacy of connection and understanding. For more information on The Rosemary Project visit www.therosemaryproject.co.nz To speak to us about leaving a gift in your will, please email info@mda.org.nz We have been helping Kiwi families for more than 60 years and by making a bequest, you are ensuring the sustainability of our organisation so that we can continue to be there for generations to come. Any bequest, no matter what size, will directly help those living with muscle wasting neuromuscular conditions, and enable us to continue our work within your community. Your good will benefits families