The Town of Olds' Loonies for Lappage campaign concluded last week with a $5,000 cheque for the local wrestler who's headed for the Rio Olympics next month.
Earlier this year, the town had pledged to match funds raised by a GoFundMe page up to $5,000 for Danielle Lappage as she trains for the Olympics. The page had a $10,000 target. Residents were asked to contribute loonies, considered a good luck charm ever since the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics.
Combined with the town contribution, the GoFundMe goal would be met.
"We just gave her a big hug and did a presentation of the $5,000 cheque and she was overwhelmed. She really did not expect it so it's good to know she was feeling a lot of love and support that gives her a lot of strength to go on," said Olds mayor Judy Dahl.
In addition to the money, an "extremely honoured" Dahl also gave the 25-year-old Lappage two Town of Olds flags, signed by residents.
"Our athlete Danielle is feeling a lot of community support and love, which strengthens her. You can see emotionally how she felt about knowing that where she's going, she's not alone. That was truly what it was all about, to let her know we were behind her. She'll always be a winner because she's a very good community leader and we're proud of her," she said.
As of July 8, the Lappage GoFundMe page, started by Crossfield resident Emily Gatez had raised $5,010. It can be found at: https://www.gofundme.com/lappageroad2rio
"She'll always be a winner because she's a very good community leader and we're proud of her." JUDY DAHL
