AMHERST - Broc McEachern wants to give back.
The eight-year-old Amherst resident is collecting money as a change bandit for the ninth annual Radiothon in support of the province's children's hospital.
McEachern was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome at birth, meaning he was missing a left ventrical to his heart.
Since then, Broc has undergone three open-heart surgeries in Toronto, and had two closed-heart surgeries at the IWK.
He's also had dental surgeries done in Halifax as a result of the medications he was taking damaging his teeth.
"I like raising money for the IWK so they can buy a new heart machine and help all the other kids," McEachern said from his family's home.
He has a personal fundraising goal of $1,500 and is almost halfway there.
While the C100 radiothon goes later this month, in order for McEachern's donations to count he has to have them in by Friday.
So, McEachern and his family are heading to Halifax on Thursday to drop off the money.
Having gone door-to-door with his siblings last week, Broc raised more than $100 in one night just on one street.
Local businesses have said they would like to donate, and the Amherst Pharmasave is taking up a collection on McEachern's behalf.
"I'm enjoying it," he said of knocking on doors.
When he's out collecting money, McEachern dons a hankerchief around his neck and face, and carries a canvas bag for the donations. Both have the logos for the event, which is hoping to raise $65,000 to go toward new equipment.
The Grade 2 student from Spring Street Academy has started to enjoy basketball, and says gym is his favourite class at school. He is a fan of the Ottawa Senators hockey team, and likes eating watermelon and watching Spongebob Squarepants.
Donations can be made at the Pharmasave on Robert Angus Drive.
rtetanish@amherstdaily.com
