Ailing woman could use some holiday warmth

Mrs. J, a victim of several heart attacks and diabetes, finds cold weather difficult to battle. Recent mild temperatures have been kind to the 78-year-old, but just thinking about the inevitable cold makes Mrs. J anxious.

Mrs. J's happiness is partly due to her ability to remain independent. Because she lives on a fixed income, it's a daily battle to remain independent and spend her last days at the senior apartment complex where she's happy. Although Mrs. J has had to go without warm clothing in the winter, it is something she truly needs. She shops for herself and goes to church when she feels up to it. She has a lightweight jacket but a heavy winter jacket in blue, size extra-large, would eliminate the many layers Mrs. J. wears when it's cold outside. Extra large sweats, sweaters, sweat pants, gloves or house shoes are items that would help Mrs. J. with her lack of cold-weather clothing.

Surrounded by people her own age, the apartment complex is a spot where residents help each other as often as possible. Gift cards to Wal-Mart, Save-A-Lot and Broadway Pharmacy would be useful to Mrs. J, especially if a neighbor is helping her to do errands.

For those interested in contributing to the Christmas for the Elderly campaign, gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian office or area locations. Cash contributions are also welcome. All contributions are tax-deductible and may be mailed separately to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004. The deadline to contribute is Tuesday.