Lights and spirit back on after vandalism

Andrew Mathieson
A CANCER survivor whose fought back tears after Christmas lights lit to raise money for charity last year was vandalised has been overwhelmed by the generosity of strangers.
Donations a year later reached more than $900 after a more elaborate festive display attracted hundreds to the Corio home.
Chris Foreman battled cervical cancer nearly a decade ago and also raised just over $300 in her first attempt at Christmas in 2008.
“We have been totally overwhelmed by the interest and support everyone, especially neighbours, have showed in the house,” she said.
“My goal was not only raising as much cash as I can for the Cancer Council Victoria, but also spreading Christmas spirit and cheer.”
Ms Foreman said strong numbers turned up after reading about her plight in the Independent in December 2008.
The damage to the lights cost more than $1000 to repair, but Ms Foreman, family and friends was still determined and spent about $2500 this year towards Christmas cheer to hit back at vandals.
The highlight of the display included a train set running through snow-covered mountains made from paper mache around Santa’s village and covering the front lawn with white insulation acting as snow.
“It’s funny how last year’s vandalism was a double-edged sword,” she said.
“Obviously it broke all of our hearts when it happened just one day after the lights were erected last year.
“But the story in the Independent and people’s outrage at the vandal’s attempt to ruin Christmas has ensured that they have not only remembered to come and see the house again and to tell all their friends and family, but to give so generously to the cause despite tough economic times in Geelong.”
Ms Foreman worked nearly 60 hours a week in two jobs to help pay for the costs and it took nearly three months to plan and build from scratch.
She still spent hours at night, over a month, with a neighbour dressed up in a Santa costume to explain to visitors the intricate details behind her winter wonderland theme.
Next year there are plans to build a Santa’s workshop where visitors will walk through a cave to reach the window display.