A movie night fundraiser for cystic fibrosis research not only smashed the financial target but also raised awareness about the "horrible disease".
"I was hoping to raise $10,000," said Sarah Beer, the chef at Rubyniks cafe at Westfield Miranda, who organised the screening of Five Feet Apart at Event Cinemas on April 3.
"In fact, we raised $17,600 from the movie and raffles, which is out of this world."
Proceeds have gone to Cystic Fibrosis Australia.
Ms Beer said the support she received from the community, local businesses and her family and friends was "incredible".
Principal supporters had included the Rubyniks cafe owners, management and staff, Miranda RSL Club, where a function was held before the movie, and Rainbow Jewellers, who donated the main prize of a diamond ring.
Other donors included Oroton (handbag), Dyson (stick vacuum), South Sydney rugby league star Damien Cook (signed boots) and Kirby Lago Hair and Salon Seventy Six (hair packages).
Ms Beer also thanked Embrace Miranda, Tradies Gymea, St George Smallgoods, The Prince hotel, Male Perfection at Southgate "and so many other local business that got behind us".
Ms Beer said the movie, which is about two teenagers living with cystic fibrosis who fall in love, raised awareness about what she and others living with cystic fibrosis experience in their daily lives.
"At the end of the movie, people were coming up with tears in their eyes, hugging me and saying thanks for opening their eyes to what this horrible disease is all about," she said.
"It also enabled me to meet other families affected by the disease and to show my respect to those who have lost loved ones to it.
"I can't thank everyone enough for an amazing night."
