Youth donate allowances to heart campaign

By Lethbridge Herald on July 5, 2025.

Alexandra Noad
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Two young boys are learning the meaning of philanthropy by donating their allowance to the Bringing Hearts Home campaign.

The nephews of Sayeh Zielke, cardiologist and chair of the Cardiac Sciences Advisory Cabinet, Samuel and Matthias saved up $30 each for a total of $60.

The donation was presented to Amber Darroch, chair of the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation at the Battle of the Badges game at Spitz Stadium held last Friday.

Darroch says receiving the donation from the boys was inspiring and shows every donation big or small can make a difference.

“Having the boys present their donation in front of the crowd validates the difference each one of us can make in our community, regardless of the scale of the gift we are able to make.”

Crystal Elliot, chief executive officer of the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, says the boys showed what philanthropy is, even at their young age.

“For each of them to give their $30 they probably were saving for several months, so for them this is what they can give and I really think the true meaning of philanthropy is to give what you are able.”

Elliot’s 15-year-old son has heart issues, so this cause is near and dear to her.

“These young boys who have given this donation at a young age they’re recognizing just how important this is.”

In Elliot’s eyes this donation is just as impactful as the million-dollar donations they have received.