Our story
It started with fear. It grew into purpose.
Living Not Existing was born in the most difficult moment of our lives.
When Sarah was diagnosed with terminal cancer, everything changed. Time suddenly felt fragile, and every day became something to hold onto. We realised how important it was to truly live, not just exist — to slow down, to be present, and to make the most of the moments we had left together.
We were fortunate. We had the financial stability, the flexibility and the support to step back from everyday pressures and focus on what mattered most.
But during our time at The Christie, we saw clearly that many people facing the same devastating diagnosis didn’t have that privilege. Financial worries, work commitments and the overwhelming mental load of illness often left them without the space to breathe, reflect, or create meaningful memories.
That realisation changed everything.
More than a mantra.
Living Not Existing became a commitment: to help others who don’t have the luxury of time, resources or mental bandwidth. To ease the pressures that stop people from living fully when life matters most.
And to honour Sarah’s strength by supporting the people who need it most.
Our story started with fear, but it grew into purpose. And that purpose is now our mission.
About us
What Living Not Existing is here to do.
Living Not Existing exists to help people facing a terminal diagnosis create meaningful, joyful, unforgettable moments. Inspired by Sarah’s journey, we support those who don’t have the financial stability, the time, or the emotional capacity to make the most of life during its most fragile chapters.
By working closely with The Christie and its support teams, we help individuals and families experience moments of peace, connection and happiness — moments that remind them they are living, not just existing.
This isn’t just our story. It’s our purpose.
What guides us
Four things we hold to.
Dignity first
Nobody has to prove they are deserving, open their finances, or tell their story twice to receive help from us.
Their choice, not ours
We ask what would mean something to the person, rather than deciding what a good memory looks like on their behalf.
The family counts too
A terminal diagnosis is carried by everyone around it. Partners, children and parents are part of what we fund, not an afterthought.
No fuss, no fanfare
We are not there to be thanked or photographed. If a family wants to share their experience they can; if they don’t, that is entirely their call.
