More than 200 people lined up bright and early Sunday morning to grab some ink for a good cause in Vernon.

Five Fathoms Tattoo Shop owner Nick Matovich has been hosting a fundraiser for The BC Children’s Hospital Foundation ever since his daughter Nova was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

While Nova sold lemonade to eager buyers, pleased patrons waited their turn for a permanent memento of their good will. There was also gourmet food available for purchase, with proceeds going to the cause.

On top of the five regular tattoo artists from Five Fathoms, skin-inkers from across B.C. and Alberta were in town to donate their skills to the cause. While it's an immense amount of work in a short period of time, Matovich said they are quite eager to support the effort.

Matovich said he hopes to donate somewhere near $30,000 to the foundation after the event, which is expected to wrap up early Monday morning.

Photo: John K. White