Local hospitals are standing a little taller after Wightman Telecom’s fifth annual Heels for Hospitals event raised $10,000 last weekend.
The event, which took place in conjunction with the CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon, asked teams and individuals to collect pledges for an area hospital of their choice and then walk 1km in heels or their favourite shoes.
Participants of all ages from across the region showed up in Clifford on Oct. 19 to show their support, including Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece and Minto Mayor George Bridge.
While some borrowed heels, others brought their own to make the trek up Allan Street.
First time participant Craig Picton, from 101.7 The One, was a little unsteady on his feet.
“We’re here to help the hospitals, I just hope I don’t end up in the hospital,” Picton said.
The grand prize of a locally-catered dinner sponsored by Wightman Telecom went to the team from Caressant Care Nursing and Retirement Home in Harriston, which generated $2,426 in pledges.
Wightman Telecom also donated $20 for each of the 79 walk participants.
Though a few toes were sore, coordinator Hope Robertson was pleased to see continued community support for the event.
“It’s just something different that has caught on… and year after year we’ve seen an increase,” said Robertson.
“It’s been very positive and people are very supportive. People are enthusiastic and that has bled out.”
The CKNX Radiothon last Saturday raised over $517,000 – although more pledges are expected to come in.
