DOG OFFERS NEW JOY, BUT FLEAS A PROBLEM

Mr. G lives alone in the small, country home he and his wife shared for years. After she died, he couldn't bear leaving the memories or the house behind, so he stayed.

But Mr. G was lonely out on the farm with no one for company. He faced colon and stomach cancer by himself.

Although the cancer is in remission, Mr. G is very weak. Recently a friend gave Mr. G a small puppy. He was delighted. The pup has brought new meaning to his life; it depends on him and keeps him company.

Unfortunately, the tiny dog brought with it fleas. Mr. G's home is infested and he can't afford to hire an exterminator.

A donation to pay for professional pest control would be a welcome Christmas gift for Mr. G. He also would like flea collars or flea spray to keep the fleas from returning. A treat for the puppy -- a bone or a toy -- would also please Mr. G.Because of his frail health, Mr. G must eat a food supplement called Ensure, which he often can't afford. A donation of Ensure, any flavor, would be appreciated. He also has a special fondness for thick-cut bacon with eggs, but Mr. G can't afford the expensive bacon. Thick-cut bacon would make a special holiday treat.

Mr. G hasn't purchased much of anything since his wife died years ago. He needs a new twin-sized mattress along with new bedding.

He also needs new clothes, especially T-shirts, size large or extra large. He likes to wear thermal underwear when he is able to putter around outside the house. Mr. G also likes sweaters and long-sleeve knit shirts, all size large or extra-large.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian at 301 Broadway or the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, 1121 Linden.

Gifts or financial donations may be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0699. For more information call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.