Seven days ago, a GoFundMe page was set up for a plumber suffering from cancer who wanted to pass on his business to his apprentice to continue his legacy.
Simon Antonelli was diagnosed in April, and has subsequently lost his hip and femur. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy. His apprentice was unable to secure a bank loan to buy Simon’s van and tools… which is where the heating and plumbing community stepped in.
The story gained widespread attention via social posts from Peter Booth and others, and the GoFundMe page was created at the suggestion of many installers with a view to raising £20,000.
The response from the heating and plumbing community has been nothing short of extraordinary. Driven almost exclusively by social media, the #20kForSimon campaign has so far brought in more than 600 donations totalling in excess of £17,000. Auctions have been held, manufacturers have set up loyalty scheme options for installers to turn points into donations, and celebrities such as Matt Le Tissier have helped to publicise the effort.
While the target hasn’t yet been reached, the overwhelming support for Simon has highlighted just how caring and generous our industry is. That said, it’s essential that we continue to spread the word and reach the £20,000 goal.
We’ll be keeping you updated on the campaign’s progress. Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/20kforsimon
Watch a video message from Simon below…
If you can spare two minutes please watch this video update from Simon Antonelli 🙏🏽
He’s blown away by the generosity and humanity of everyone who’s got behind him, it means the 🌍
You can donate and leave Simon a message here 👇🏽https://t.co/OWDdJMfYtm@BigNel22 @phpi pic.twitter.com/R75UzP2dK8— P B Plumber (@pbplumber) July 5, 2019
UPDATE 11/07/19: The £20,000 target has now been reached!
