An Oak Bay centenarian hasn’t even walked a step but has already raised $15,000 for Save the Children.
He plans to start 103 laps of the courtyard at his Carlton House home Monday morning – walking roughly 10 rounds a day for roughly 10 days until he hits his age.
John Hillman, 103, held similar fundraisers in 2020 and 2021 raising $215,000 to help children affected by conflict around the world.
READ ALSO: 103-year-old Oak Bay veteran invites youth to join Save the Children fundraiser
This year, he invited youth to participate which spurred a planned series of musical performers, special guests and community partners walking with him. Guest walkers include a Grade 3 class from Glenlyon Norfolk School, Oak Bay council, local fire and police members as well as the Oak Bay High marching band.
Hillman was inspired by Capt. Tom Moore of England, who in 2020 did 100 laps of his garden to raise money for a charity that supports hospitals in the U.K. Moore’s story captured worldwide attention and he raised tens of millions of dollars in the first week.
Hillman tackled 101 laps over 20 days to raise awareness and money for Save The Children Canada in 2020.
READ ALSO: Veteran, Oak Bay charitable inspiration John Hillman honoured at 103
After learning Moore died in February 2021, attributed to COVID-19, Hillman decided to repeat the event. After losing his wife Irene – the couple was married more than 79 years – on July 3, 2021, and battling the mid-summer heat, he finished the feat later in July.
This year’s walk is set to start May 2 at 10:30 a.m. in the courtyard of Carlton House. Environment Canada predicts sun and cloud for the day with a high of 15 C.
This year’s fundraising goal is a fitting $103,000. Donate to the cause at savethechildren.akaraisin.com/ui/teamsave/p/Hillman103.
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