Over $13,000 was raised for Halliday family

Roughly 500 people attended the fundraiser for Philip Halliday, his wife Sheree and their two children, which raised just over $13,000 on Feb. 7.

Philip Halliday was arrested of the coast of Spain just before Christmas in connection to a major cocaine bust, which saw 1.5 tonnes of cocaine seized. “We prepare for many events in our lives, home and vehicle insurance, disability, life insurance, pensions and retirement but who would ever expect that we would have to prepare for something like this,” said Sheree Halliday. “We had started the fundraiser for his defense,” knowing lawyers fees would be astronomical, said co-organizer Joanne Dunn. “Every penny raised will go towards legal fees,” noted Halliday. “It was a really huge success. The line up to get in the front door was right down by the street and it kept going,” said Dunn.

The afternoon was filled many activities such as a cakewalk, silent auction, Chinese auction, seafood chowder, hotdogs and entertainment by Al Dupuis, Baptist mens' choir and karaoke.

About 25 cakes were donated along with more than 90 items between both auctions, estimated Dunn.

Everyone who organized the event really appreciated the support received, said Dunn. “The work put into the fundraiser, the items donated and the generosity of the people were beyond my wildest expectations,” said Halliday.

Philip was transferred to a prison in Madrid last week and could remain there for a period of two weeks up to six months, said Halliday. He will appear in court Feb. 23. “I’m looking forward to Feb. 23. It means that the legal proceedings will begin. Nothing can be done until Philip is charged,” said Halliday. “Philip is not just my husband and the father of my children, he is my very best friend. Cody, Daren and I feel his absence deeply. We need to have him home again where he belongs.”

She has established regular contact with her husband through telephone calls and letters. He is in good health and is keeping a sense of humour.