Whilst preparing this message, all of us at New Ways have, of course, been deeply saddened by the death last Thursday of Queen Elizabeth II, and we send this, expressing first, our sympathy for her family, and acknowledging her extraordinary service and fortitude over 70 years as our sovereign in the United Kingdom and head of the Commonwealth.
It is with profound sadness that I wanted to share with you the news that my friend, who I have been privileged to know for 37 years, Stephen Gosztony tragically died at the end of August. A life cut too short as he had just turned 61. He leaves behind those he loved, including his wife Sue and his children Amelia and Matthew. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this sad and difficult time. Stephen was a great philanthropist, as is his wife, helping many wonderful causes. He had very generously supported New Ways from the very early days of the charity when I first got involved and continued to do so. Stephen and Sue planned, organised and participated in the first sponsored run in Richmond Park in September 1995, raising much needed funds for our projects, and initiating an event that was to continue for another 15 years, although we could never persuade Stephen to run again!
I’m sure many of you will have come to know Stephen, either professionally or through New Ways over the years. He was wonderfully supportive of all we were doing from the Advent Balls to the wine tastings, and everything in between. His legacy for the people in Africa whose lives he enhanced will live on. He was a lovely, kind, charismatic, caring, generous, intelligent and compassionate man with a great sense of humour who inspired many, and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. New Ways will be forever in his debt for his support, as will I from a personal perspective as well as in my capacity as CEO, for his friendship and wise counsel over many years. May he rest in peace.
