A Dunedin artist is donating to the Heart Foundation Otago Mid Winter Art Auction because he knows how cardiovascular disease can "unexpectedly'' affect a family.
Ricky Drew (53) will give his acrylic on board work Blue Door Gallery, a painting of a Dunedin Town Hall side door, because his wife, Rose Drew (54), had a heart attack in August 2015.
Mrs Drew said the attack was unexpected and that people should have regular medical check-ups.
"Don't ignore any of the warning signs. It can happen to anyone.''
Mrs Drew said she would be forever grateful to the staff at Dunedin Hospital's emergency department and ward 7B.
Mr Drew said he was impressed by the list of artists taking part in the auction.
"I know a couple of these people and they are really good ... There are some great artists there so I hope the Heart Foundation do well.
"It's a great cause.''
Heart Foundation Otago heart health advocate Joanne Arthur said the organisation hoped to raise more than $15,000 from the more than 50 "gorgeous'' artworks and items of jewellery being offered.
"We have an amazing selection.''
The money would be used to support people with cardiovascular disease and to pay for education and medical research to prevent the disease, the foundation said.
