Recent surgeries make everyday tasks difficult for area elderly

The Christmas for the Elderly program is intended to help seniors who typically don't have a family, lack basic supplies and can't spend money to treat themselves to a Christmas.

Donations can be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian office at 301 Broadway and should include the identifying letter of their recipient.

Those who wish to donate cash or a check should make it payable to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702.

Thankful man

Mr. K is grateful for all he has: a home to live in, a concerned son who calls him daily, grandparents who stepped in and raised him after his parents died, a Social Security check.

This 83-year-old has limitations since his recent kidney surgery and doesn't leave his house often. His dog, Bear, keeps him company. Bear, so named for Mr. K's American Indian heritage, of which he is proud, likes Save-A-Lot canned dog food. Toys and treats suitable for a chow would also be appreciated. Remembering Mr. K's dog at Christmas would reinforce this already faithful man's beliefs. His caseworker said Mr. K talks to God every evening, praising him with thanks.

A recliner would make Mr. K really comfortable and is at the top of his wish list. Other ideas include gift certificates for Save-A-Lot and Wal-Mart to help him get through the month with food. His Social Security check comes once monthly, and finances are strained at the end of the month. Other suggestions include clothing. His shirt size is large; jeans are 38 x 30; houseshoes are size 10 1/2.

Couple struggles with daily tasks

Ms. L and Mr. M are a disabled couple. Both have high blood pressure, difficulty walking and are on restricted diets due to surgeries and diabetes. Ms. L can't perform daily living tasks without assistance. Mr. M has limited sight in addition to difficulty walking. Social Security is their only income, and clothes to keep them warm and supplies to run a household are not in the budget.

At the top of Ms. L's Christmas list are lightweight satin pajamas. A little comfort in her life, ordinarily wracked with pain from degenerative disc disease and arthritis, could be achieved with this simple gift. A medium-sized bath robe to keep her warm would be appreciated.

Also on her list is a set of cannisters or glasses for the home. Full-size sheets or a comforter would help the couple have a set to change off to while one set gets washed.

Sweats are easy-on, easy-off. Her size is medium in pants, large in tops.

Mr. M takes an extralarge or 17 1/2 in shirts, underwear, gloves or bath robe; size 40 x 30 in pants. He likes white briefs and could use some white socks, too.