Family raises funds for the Macular Society in memory of Tony Dibbs, the helpful dad who was ‘a friend to everyone’

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things in the world and it takes a special family to think about helping others during such a sad time. But that’s just what Tony Dibbs’ family did, in tribute to their much-loved husband and father. Tony’s legacy lives on in his children, who continue to fundraise for a cure for macular degeneration in their father’s name.

When Tony passed away last November, his family were already committed supporters of the Macular Society. Both of his sons and their wives had participated in the London 10k and Tim had conquered the gruelling London to Brussels 24-hour cycle ride. Collectively they have raised more than £6,500. Throughout his struggle, Tony was immensely proud of their achievements, giving Team Dibbs “enthusiastic encouragement in everything they did”.

Tony, who lived in Chorleywood and Rickmansworth for nearly 25 years, was diagnosed with macular degeneration in 2001 and he immediately set about fundraising with his wife Muriel (Moo). During his 12-year illness, Tony helped countless people through his fundraising efforts and by helping people understand and deal with the realities of the disease. “Tony was a friend to everyone,” says Moo. “He spent his time helping others. He always had time for everyone and nothing was too much trouble.”

Moo’s advice to other families that have suffered a loss is to do something similar. “It’s a great comfort among all the sadness. I would encourage anyone in these circumstances to consider raising funds for their favourite charity, it really helps.”

Son Tim’s latest achievement is his completion of the 2014 Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 on August 10. The managing director is thrilled to have been able to use the family business, Crown Honda Hendon and Bushey Heath, as a platform to spread the word about and fundraise for the Macular Society. His latest achievement saw the family fund rise by £2,500.

The Macular Society’s new tribute funds enable you to create your own personal tribute to someone special, raising funds in their name to support the vital work of the society.

As managing director of Crown Honda Hendon and Bushey Heath, Tim Dibbs has been using the family business to raise money for the Macular Society for 12 years. Details: www.crownhonda.co.uk

 

If you think a tribute fund is a fitting way to celebrate the life of someone you love, please visit www.tributefunds.macularsociety.org or call 01264 321965 to talk it through before you get started.  

Pictured is Tim (right hand-side), who has just completed the Prudential 100 with the help of his brother in law Marc Jones in aid of The Macular Society.