John Giggins, a 56-year-old car lover from Wangaratta, definitely has the underdog odds stacked high against him. He’s been fighting glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer. After being told he had only a few months to live, Giggins had emergency surgery to extract a brain tumor. With only 12 to 18 months to live, he has found hope and support from his lifelong friend, Heath Lloyd, who is rallying their tight-knit community to help him build his dream car—a recreation of the legendary Tru Blu, once driven by racer Dick Johnson.
Giggins has always dreamed of restoring a classic 1980 XD Falcon, which he bought with his own money for $23,000. He eventually hopes to enter the car in November’s Bright Rod Run. He would even use it for laps on the well-known Bathurst racetrack! With his ongoing health issues, he’s only had the ability to do small adjustments to the truck. Lloyd quickly became the fix-it project manager, personally passionate about seeing Giggins’s dream become a reality.
The Power of Friendship
Heath Lloyd and John Giggins have been best friends for more than 30 years. Their bond has only grown deeper in this trying time.
To tell you the truth … when John got crook, I was just thinking of doing something for my mate … living out my dream … build his dream,” explained Lloyd. His dedication has motivated others in the community to rally around Giggins, helping him to go big.
Giggins reflects on his current situation, stating, “It’s just spending as much time with friends and family as I can.” His emphasis now is on celebrating the time he has left, enjoying life and following his dream of working with automobiles.
Community Fundraising Initiatives
Lloyd’s initiative has led to various fundraisers aimed at covering Giggins’s medical expenses and assisting with the Tru Blu project. The community has responded with remarkable generosity. Local businesses and those who live here are stepping up to make a difference however they’re able to.
Community member David Noble reminded council of all the importance the car project carries. “The car is the iconic symbol of perseverance and success,” he noted. For his part, Noble said he was thankful to have been a part of Giggins’s journey. “For us to be able to share in that … is very cherished from our side of things.”
Beyond community support, Giggins got a rather distinctive contribution — courtesy of Dick Johnson himself. By signing the glove box of Giggins’s Tru Blu, Johnson went straight to the heart of every local car enthusiast.
A Dream in Progress
Though he’s got a lot stacked against him, Giggins isn’t giving up hope on realizing his dream Tru Blu project. The battered beauty, formerly an expression of extravagant selfishness, has not only become a personal goal for freer spirits but universally recognized totem of triumph over disaster.
“Basically he was ruined when the rock was on the road,” said Noble, referring to Giggins’s struggles with his health. With steadfast backing from his pals and neighbors, Giggins says he’s more motivated than ever to continue pushing ahead.
I’m still pinching myself. It’s even more difficult to comprehend that it’s occurred, said Giggins as he spoke about the overwhelming support he received.
Preparations have begun in anticipation of the annual Bright Rod Run. Giggins couldn’t be more excited, and is spreading that enthusiasm, hoping this experience brings joy to himself and everyone around him.
