THE BIG HEART PROJECT – A $2 MILLION SUCCESS!

Canberra rallies against cancer


Article heading image for THE BIG HEART PROJECT – A $2 MILLION SUCCESS!

By Renee Bogatko, Image Credit – @loveyoursister/Facebook.com

Canberrans turned out in droves with coins galore to celebrate The Big Heart Project at Lyneham Netball Courts on Wednesday.

The initial fundraising target of $1 million was DOUBLED, a result which left Canberra’s Connie Johnson and her Gold Logie winning brother Samuel, astounded.

The pair took several moments in the day to thank all the generous locals and volunteers who’d shown up and contributed.

Connie, who’s succumbing to the perils of cancer, created The Big Heart Project as her last fundraising activity before she settles down to enjoy her remaining time with family.

More than $2.3 million was raised for cancer research and a world record set for the biggest heart made from five cent pieces.

After a massive day of celebrations, it was time to gather up all the coins.

“Without the SES, Fire, Ambulance and Police who all turned up with shovels in hand, I think we’d still be there picking up the five cent pieces,” Questacon Deputy Director, Kate Driver, said.

Those guys had that thing packed up in under two hours! They just got in there and did it and it was just so amazing!

- Kate Driver

Organisers estimated the weight of the coins in the heart was approaching the weight of 100 elephants! Wow!

Kate capped off the night with a quiet beverage with Samuel, after an amazing and emotional day.

“We actually stood there and just looked at each other. It’s been a very emotional experience working with Connie closely on The Big Heart Project,” she said.

What this woman has given to the world and to the Canberra community is just phenomenal!

- Kate Driver

 

10 May 2017




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