TWILLINGATE -
Nine-year-old Nicholas Gates of Twillingate has set himself a big goal.
A few months back he decided he wanted to raise at least $1,000 for the Janeway Children's Hospital. Nicholas has a cousin who has received help from the Janeway on many occasions for glycogen storage disease and he decided to raise this money as a way of recognizing what the Janeway does for children like his cousin and many, many across the province.
Nicholas, who is a student at Twillingate Island Elementary, began by selling Janeway balloons at his school back in March. Earlier in April The Pilot reported that he had sold about $80 worth of balloons.
In his continuing effort, Nicholas - along with seven special guests - held a concert on April 23 at the Twillingate Lions Club. Tickets for the concert sold out very quickly. There was also a donation can at the door where people were able to leave free will offerings to the Janeway.
Nicholas, who is a talented guitar player and singer, treated the audience to several songs including "The Little Boats of Newfoundland" and "I Walk the Line". Nicholas was followed by Janelle Shea, Carrie Wheeler, Dylan Stockley, Benjamin Burton and Terri Lynn Roberts who all gave exceptional performances of various gospel and contemporary songs. Also performing that night was eight-year-old Destiny Hull, who received a standing ovation for her rendition of "Grey Foggy Day" and "Salt Water Joys". Missing from the list of performers for the evening was Rachel Dove, who was unable to attend due to illness. Nicholas said he felt really good about all the people who came out to support the cause and those who had given private donations.
Following the concert when all of the donations were counted Nicholas had raised a total of $1,098 - that's $98.00 over his original goal. Nicholas will be accepting private donations up until June 1. After that he will be going to Grand Falls-Windsor to present the funds to the Janeway during their annual telethon.
Nicholas's mother Donna Gates said is pleased with the effort her son has made towards raising this money for such a worthy cause.
"It's awesome - we're proud of him," she said.
Nicholas Gates met his goal of raising $1,000 for the Janeway but anyone who still wants to support his initiative can make a private donation to be included when he presents the money to the Janeway.
The group of performers for the April 23 concert included (front, from left) Destiny Hull, Nicholas Gates, Benjamin Burton; (back) Carrie Wheeler, Janelle Shea, Dylan Stockley and Terri Lynn Roberts.
Nicholas's sister Emily Gates and cousin Mackenzie Hillier helped out by taking tickets and accepting donations at the door.
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