Three siblings, diabetic need help this year

Three siblings ages 8, 4 and 2 have specific requests for Santa Claus this holiday season. The youngest child, Brianna, wants dolls, coloring books, Barbies and some educational games suitable for toddlers. Her older brother, Brian, wants Spider-Man toys, Hot Wheels, books, remote-control cars and other learning games. The oldest child, Brittany, wants Bratz dolls and accessories, hair accessories for herself and a new pair of house slippers. She'd also like pencils, pens and notebooks.

The children's parents are relying on the help of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Toybox program to provide their family with holiday gifts this year.

Christmas for the Elderly

Miss B is an 85-year-old woman who lives alone. She receives Social Security benefits but is still short sometimes and can't always afford her medicines.

Miss B is diabetic and needs to maintain her health as best as possible. She has a history of cancer and is prone to falls.

Her greatest wish is for money to join the Lifeline program, which requires a $25 monthly fee and installation charge. Because Miss B has twice dislocated her hip, this program could be a lifesaver. She also needs a new glucose monitor to check her blood sugars.

But Miss B also has simpler requests for holiday gifts: a floral design housecoat in size large, hygiene products and household cleaning items. She'd be happy with most anything that could brighten her holidays.

Donations for both programs are accepted at the newspaper offices and locations throughout town. Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to either program at P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-0004.