Anne Willmott-Speller

On this poignant anniversary, memories of Anne come rushing back. Our beloved supporter, Anne Willmott Speller, died a year ago today. She altruistically helped so many others living with Marfan syndrome and was an indispensable friend to the Marfan Trust. Her daughter, Chloe, shares this beautiful tribute and reflection.

Anne grew up aware of her Marfan syndrome which she and her twin sisters inherited from their father and grandfather. 

I’m Chloe, Anne’s daughter, telling my beautiful mum's story.

Last year she tragically passed due to an aortic heart dissection. Anne was 54 years old.

Marfan syndrome is a rare and little-known condition, unknown even to some doctors causing ignorance and misdiagnosis for patients.

My Beautiful Mother
Anne was the most beautiful selfless soul, she put everything and everyone before herself, she was a free spirit and adored life.

Words can't describe my mother; she was the embodiment of being pure, kind and beautiful. She loved aromatherapy, natural living and animals.

Living in Norfolk was the best decision for my mum as she truly found herself, supporting the local animal sanctuary, spending her days by the beach, walking and exploring new areas in the county. She especially loved Bacton-on-sea and Holt.

My mum became a Neals Yard consultant @nealsyardwithanne where she did events at our local cafe hosting for friends and the community.

My mum also did a lot for the Marfans charity, supporting and engaging in the charity. This meant a lot for her as she wanted people living with Marfans to understand their condition and live without fear.

Anne was very involved in the Marfan Trust's peer support scheme and she helped one young lady who felt panicked and alone in London. She lady later described my mother as an angel.

The most important symptom heralding my mother's aortic dissection were her aching ribs and back the night before she went into Norwich hospital in January. She also had scoliosis however this was a different pain to what to was used to!!

She experienced fatigue, tiredness and the feeling of being breathless. 

My mother lives on with us in spirit.