'Gilligan’s Island' Star Dawn Wells Gets A Little Help From Fans

LOS ANGELES, CA — It was the tour that was only supposed to last three hours, and a show that only lasted three seasons, but 50 years later "Gilligan’s Island" continues to be life-changing for star Dawn Wells, one of two surviving cast members from the iconic show. Wells, who played the All-American Mary Ann, received a $203,000 donation this month from fans upset to see her fallen on hard times.

A GoFundMe account created by a friend went up in September and received hundreds of thousands of dollars in less than two months from more than 5,000 fans. The 80-year-old actress suffered an accident and found herself unable to pay her bills and her taxes, according to Dugg Kirkpatrick, her friend who started the fundraiser.

"My dearest friend and YOUR favorite castaway, Dawn Wells ( Mary Ann from ‘Gilligan’s Island’ ) needs YOU!" he wrote. " After 2008, like many of us, Dawn suffered through the banking crash and lost everything including her life savings in addition, to a life -threatening surgery which came close to killing her. Dawn was a victim of an unexpected accident that required hospitalization for two months and a very long time to rest and heal."

Wells is living a hardship familiar to so many Americans, he added.

"Dawn is living one of the greatest fears we Americans have, an uncertain future. Should any of you out there wish to contribute a small some to help a woman who gave so many people Joy over the years, it would be so appreciated."

Fans came through in spectacular fashion, many thanking the actress for the joy they got from "Gilligan’s Island."

"Gilligan’s Island was appointment television for me growing up. I have seen each episode at least ten times," wrote one donor. "Ms. Wells has given me and countless others eternal joy and we are grateful."

"My first true love...," said another.

For her part, Wells was stunned that so many people cared.

"I don't know how this happened. I thought I was taking all the proper steps to ensure my golden years. Now, here I am, no family, no husband, no kids and no money. I'm grateful that God has given me so many friends and fans who care, or it would all be too ... overwhelming. ... I am grateful to any of my fans who are willing to offer support."

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - APRIL 11: Actress Dawn Wells attends the 2015 TV Land Awards at Saban Theatre on April 11, 2015 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)