Hearty people take the plunge

Around 60 people plunged themselves into icy cold water at Bunnings Warehouse to raise money and awareness of @Heart Bay of Plenty.

A total of 13 teams raised $7000 for the cause.

Alec Stevens, 3, helping out at the Heart Stopper Challenge.

Bay of Plenty Police took an icy plunge for a good cause.

Chairperson Jeanine Stevens says the Heart Stopper Challenge went really well.

Every week, 12 babies are born in New Zealand with a heart defect. Their chest cavities are filled with ice to slow their heart rate as surgeons repair the defect.

The Heart Stopper Challenge simulates this.

Jeanine says @Heart provides practical and emotional support for all those affected.

“We’re here every step of the heart journey - from when it is diagnosed through childhood, the teenage years and into adulthood.

“@Heart is the only organisation dedicated to provide life-long support for all those affected by the world’s most common birth defect and heart disease acquired during childhood.”

As a charity, the work carried out by the @Heart is completely funded by voluntary donations.

Jeanine says they are always grateful for the generous support and donations from individuals, businesses, philanthropic organisations and the local community that continues to make our work possible.

For more information about the organisation visit http://www.heartnz.org.nz/