Woman on small income has modest Christmas wish list

Ms. N has had her share of health problems. With heart trouble, diabetes and a history of cancer and stroke, she is happy to enjoy another Christmas.

The 84-year-old receives Social Security, a small Veterans Administration pension and food stamps.

She lives alone in an apartment complex with other seniors.

She is happy for the friends she has. They all live from check to check and exchanging gifts is not an option.

The few items on Ms. N's Christmas list include a medium-sized house coat, size 8 house shoes and Depends in medium. These small gifts unwrapped on Christmas Day are what would give this elderly woman a reason to believe someone cares. Cleaning supplies like laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid and paper towels would make her grateful as well.

A gift certificate to Broadway Pharmacy could help Ms. N pay for her medicine.

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.