A Wallaceburg woman, who is in need of a double lung transplant, got a big boost from a Sarnia tattoo shop on the weekend.
Cam Manneke from BlueWater Tattoo held a fundraiser on Saturday for Julie Rice, who is raising funds for the transplant she hopes will take place later this year.
The all-day affair at the 178 Christina St. N. shop ended up raising $5,260.
“I was really shocked,” she told the Sydenham Current.
“I knew when we were there they were really busy and steady all day and they originally said they were going to Tattoo until 11 p.m. but they ended up finishing their last tattoo at 2 a.m. They are a group of amazing artists and Cam has always been a great and caring person, I’ve known him since early high school.”
Rice said every nickel and dime of the money raised on Saturday was dropped off to Rice on Monday.
“I feel very lucky, slightly overwhelmed but mostly loved that him and his friends would go to all that work to help me during this time,” she said.
“And I was just amazed and surprised at all the people who came out to support it, Bluewater Tattoo was packed that day. I just feel so lucky to have such amazing people in my life. It helps so much, I’m now able to go into this relatively stress free about the money part.”
Rice, who battles cystic fibrosis, said she had all her tests and requirements updated last week, so she is hopeful to be added to the transplant list at any time.
“Should be hearing soon,” she said.
Rice’s friends have been busy holding fundraisers in the past few weeks, and a GoFundMe campaign is on-going. In 20 days, $3,145 of her $15,000 goal has been raised online.
Next up, a quarter auction is being held on Wednesday, May 31 at 7 p.m. at the Moose Lodge in Wallaceburg.
Join the event on Facebook, here.
– Photo credit: Bluewater Tattoo
Thoughts and prayers are with you and Tony, big hugs to you from your former ct family.