A legacy of solidarity with John
23 October 2026
I realised the injustice, and it motivated me to act. I’m a gay man born in 1930, so I’ve always thought of myself as an outsider. When you don’t fit in, perhaps you think about things differently.
MAP legacy supporter, John
This piece is a tribute to John, one of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)'s dedicated supporters. His gift to MAP is only one part of his legacy: a life dedicated to standing for justice and freedom for Palestinians.
John passed away in October 2023, leaving behind cherished memories for those fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy gift continues to support Palestinians who he so passionately advocated for.
For John, his commitment to the Palestinian cause came from a place of understanding. His personal life experiences meant that he recognised how it felt to face injustice, but what he faced never deterred him. In fact, it became the reason he was so vocal and passionate about Palestinians’ rights to health and dignity.
John’s support was unwavering. He volunteered with MAP every single week, while donating to support our work.
“John was a staunch supporter of MAP.” Jacqueline, a family member of John’s tells us. “One of the things he did to support the organisation was to collect stamps.” His family members would see him hunched over his stamps as he sorted them to make sure he had items he would then use to help with ongoing fundraising for MAP.
“He had collected stamps since he was a child, and it was such a pleasure for him to find a way to connect two things he loved so much. Once he passed on, he left his stamp collection as a donation to MAP for their benefit to continue all the amazing work they do.”
After visiting Lebanon and the West Bank as a MAP volunteer, John was struck by the stark contrast between the lives of forcibly displaced Palestinians in refugee camps and the comforts enjoyed by settlers living in illegal settlements.
Despite this, John never felt hopeless. He always had an infectious positivity, and he will be remembered by our team as a welcome and cheerful presence.
We can’t give to everything, but we must help if we can. I’ve had a good life, I’m happy, and I’m glad I can do good with my life.
MAP legacy supporter, John
John’s dedication had a lasting effect on our staff here at MAP. John and his partner Eric welcomed our colleagues into their homes and never shied away from talking about Palestine, sharing their stories and helping where they could.
Words from our MAP team on John:
“He had a wonderful way of making time for everyone, stopping to chat, share a story, or simply brighten someone's day. His warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in people made him a friend to all who met him.” – Sam, Deputy Director of Digital, Data and Technology
“He was a warm, kind-hearted soul who was dedicated to making people's lives better. His passion remained firmly rooted in his support for the health and dignity of Palestinians.” – Chloe, Senior Philanthropy & Partnerships Officer
“He and his husband Eric were real stalwarts of MAP - embodying everything I love about the community that sustains MAP's work: solidarity, kindness, and ceaseless support.” – Rohan, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns and Communications
He left a lasting impression on us all, and he will be remembered with great affection.
We will continue working towards every Palestinian’s rights to health and dignity, just as John did, and just as many more have and will do, for as long as it takes.
Donate in memory
If you have any questions, get in touch with our Legacy and In Memory Team by emailing [email protected] or [email protected] or calling us at +44 (0)20 7226 4114
