Pride of NZ: One dollar warrior a 'true hero'

Robbie Ritchie. Photo / Supplied

Robbie Ritchie
Fundraiser of the Year

Robbie Ritchie is a modern day warrior.

Until recently, he had battled prolonged and severe grand mal seizures. He was told they were incurable and his life expectancy was 40.

Two years ago, he found German neurologists who could fix it. He had six weeks to come up with $200,000 to receive the treatment.

Through his community rallying together, his workplace's internal fundraising, the Herald and Seven Sharp's publicity and his own efforts, the money was raised, just in time.

As Mr Ritchie recovered in hospital post-surgery, he had an idea.

"If you need $100,000, you just ask 100,000 people for a dollar each."

One Dollar Warriors was born.

It is a fundraising organisation based on the concept of each individual giving $1 towards a cause, around once a month.

Since its inception 10 months ago, One Dollar Warriors has raised more than $200,000 to help save lives.

Mr Ritchie has been nominated for a Pride of New Zealand Award, in the Fundraiser of the Year category, for his dedication to helping save those suffering a life-threatening illness.

"Robbie has truly embodied what it means to be a New Zealander and is doing everything he can to help others," his nominator said. "He is truly a hero."

The Pride of New Zealand Awards are proudly brought to you by The New Zealand Herald, The Hits and TSB Bank.
Nominations for the 2015 awards have now closed.
To see more stories of our wonderful nominees click here.
For more information on the awards go to the official website.