For Russell, the decision to give to Silverchain was deeply personal.
When Russell retired from his office job in Perth in 2020, life was full of promise. He and his wife, Jackie, traded in their old caravan for a new one and joined the local caravan club. Together they explored country towns, shared long weekends with their daughters and grandchildren, and enjoyed the freedom of the open road.
Their only connection to Silverchain back then was a quirky coincidence – years earlier, the family had bought a small second-hand car once used by a Silverchain carer. They never imagined how important that name would become.
In late 2021, as they prepared to downsize their home, Jackie found a lump in her breast. Over the following five months, during cancer treatment, Silverchain became a lifeline.
Russell faced the heartbreaking reality of losing his beloved wife. In the most challenging of moments of their journey, Silverchain’s palliative care team was there – not only with expert medical care, but with genuine compassion.
Jackie passed away just five months after her diagnosis, in 2022. The care that Jackie received left a lasting impact. Today, Russell supports Silverchain as a Sterling Supporter, with a monthly donation as a quiet tribute to the love of his life.
“I give in memory of my adorable Jackie. We were married for nearly 48 years,” Russell shared.
“Silverchain has earned my eternal gratitude for the tender care they gave her in those last few painful months.”
Russell says he gives to Silverchain because their care went beyond what he expected. It was personal, thoughtful and human.
“I support Silverchain so that other families can be cared for like we were,” Russell said. “The very least I can do it pay it forward to ease the pain a little for others who may find themselves in a similar situation.”
Thank you Russell, for sharing Jackie’s story.
If you would like to share a story of gratitude for Silverchain services or donate in memory of a loved one, please contact fundraising@silverchain.org.au or call 1300 650 803 and ask to speak to the Silverchain Foundation team.
