Campbell Live: $100k raised for Evan Hill's buck teeth

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$100k raised for Evan Hill's buck teeth

3News NZ

From the moment we ran Evan's story, viewer feedback and donations flooded in

From the moment we ran Evan's story, viewer feedback and donations flooded in

Last night Campbell Live brought you the story of 12-year-old Evan Hill, whose massive front teeth have made his life hell.

Unable to afford the operation he needs, and not covered by the public health system, Evan had resigned himself to a life of ridicule.

But Evan’s story moved so many of you so deeply that his future seems to have taken a sudden turn for the better.

From the moment we ran his story, viewer feedback and donations flooded in. At last count more than 700 people had posted comments on our Facebook page and website.

Robness Mataiti posted: “donated what I would spend on my dinner all week - and I eat big! Merry Christmas little man!”

Patricia Gwatkin posted: “that was the best money spent on such a deserving boy. You make us proud. We are red zone in Christchurch but what you are going through is far worse.”

Bask Wilson wrote: “my 7 and a half year old has rounded up his pocket money and wants me to take him to the bank tomorrow to put it in Evan's account after school. He felt he didn't need the money himself after seeing this story.”

Jo Grant-Lindsay posted: “Evan you are one very special young man. You are very brave going on national TV. Stay positive.”

Evan has clearly reached through the screen and moved you, and now you have moved us.

His jaw sits at a 12 degree angle when it should only be two. His orthodontist told us they were the worst he's seen in 25 years. Now, thanks to you, Evan doesn't have to live like this anymore.

Viewers have donated more than $100,000 to pay for Evan’s operation.

“There are people out there willing to help others in need,” Evan’s father, Stephen told him after hearing the news.

“Especially like you.”

But this wasn't just a story for Evan, it was a story for all those who had ever been bullied, teased or hurt and it's heart-warming to know from such cruelty can come such kindness.

“I’d like to thank you for this kind gesture,” Stephen said.

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Campbell Live has received several requests from viewers for an address to send Christmas presents to the Hill family. Any gifts can be sent to the Christchurch TV3 office, where Evan’s dad will collect them.

Twiggers Stand
Level 2, Addington Raceway
Jack Hinton Drive
Christchurch
PO Box 25 040

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Comments

16/01/2013 9:15:26 a.m.

Dawn Barrett wrote:

Could you help us with some information. Friends saw your story on Evan and said that is like Felix (our son). We have just started initial treatment with a night brace for Felix who also has hard to treat buck teeth affecting his speech and eating. Can we make an application to the fund generated for Evan. With 3 children needing treatment (Felix is the worst) we would be incredibly grateful for any help. We would be happy to provide our time to support another community need in return. Many thanks - Dawn

2/11/2012 2:45:15 p.m.

CILLA wrote:

This week we have been ringing around trying to find an orthodontist that was affordable for us to treat both of our children with cross bite and what a headache but heres a young brave boy Evan who's been through far worst. Reminds us that there are people with worst situations then cross bite, my children would like to donate? We hope all goes well for you Evan and things are brighter for you in the future. Keep smiling :)

20/08/2012 9:47:06 p.m.

Peggy Weber wrote:

WOW! My daughter and I who live in England were looking to show images to my five year old grandson about why he shouldn't suck his thumb. We came across this amazing article, we were astounded at such a lovely news story!! So refreshing to see a News Channel helping a family like this with their appeal and even more so, what a wonderful neighbour that went out and DID something to help! We were so thrilled at the response you had and are sharing this on our facebook pages. We just wish more NEWS channels world wide would follow suit. WOW! So heart warming to see this!

11/07/2012 1:58:27 p.m.

julia wrote:

im so glad for u i hope u have a great life.:)

15/01/2012 1:07:48 p.m.

sharon livingstone wrote:

i have only today had this article bought to my attention and tomorrow will be donation some money you are amazing and brave poeople can be so damm cruel look forward to the follow up story xx

23/12/2011 2:31:40 p.m.

Sarah wrote:

Merry Christmas to Evan and his family - well done Dad for raising such a loving family.

19/12/2011 5:13:38 p.m.

S.Beast wrote:

I donated a measly $2 (which was all I had until the next day) and it was worth it. I even left the details of the bank account at our friendly WestpacTrust Branch. Smile Evan!

19/12/2011 10:57:24 a.m.

Asian wrote:

Wow. New Zealanders' concern for other people is really amazing. :) Hats off to kiwis. :)

17/12/2011 11:43:58 a.m.

Jen wrote:

I cannot understand a government health system that will spend MILLIONS of dollars each year on double-bypass surgery, and other drastic procedures relative to heart disease, obesity, diabetes, etc., from fat, unhealthy, LAZY New Zealander's, and yet they won't cough up a meager $12,000 for this poor boys teeth. Furthermore, the billion-dollar subsidization of prescription medication (of only 5% is relative to 'genetic' conditions), that support more fat, unhealthy and lazy New Zealander's (cholesterol drugs, blood pressure stabilizing drugs, diabetes, depression, ADHD, etc.). It disgusts me. I'd much rather see my taxpayer dollars going towards these sorts of health care problems. I'm glad the New Zealand public were able to donate enough money for you Evan!

16/12/2011 11:49:14 p.m.

Allan McKenzie wrote:

Awesome to support such a worthy cause !!!