Family Optimistic After 3-Year-Old Daughter Diagnosed with Brain Cancer
When the Share Your Christmas team spoke with this family, they had just returned from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis and were cautiously optimistic about their 3-year-old daughter, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 brain cancer 18 months ago.
Her cancer is currently in remission, but she will require close monitoring as she continues therapy, as there is a risk of the tumor recurring.
Despite undergoing medical tests, two surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, the little girl remains happy and resilient, taking the treatment in stride, according to her mother.
However, after enduring recent stresses, the parents expressed a desire for all their children to have a joyful Christmas. Unfortunately, the father recently sustained an injury and currently receives only part-time pay while on the mend, making assistance with toys greatly appreciated, according to the mother.
The older siblings, both of whom are described as highly supportive, have requested specific gifts related to their interests, including sports and outdoor activities. For their sister, a baby doll and children’s tool bench are suggested gifts.
Foster Family Welcomes New Additions
A family with three children of their own felt called to foster two additional children, offering them the love and stability they require. They also have experience caring for children with special needs due to their own children’s health conditions.
Despite having an abundance of love, they lack the financial resources to provide Christmas gifts for all five children. Each child has specific gift requests tailored to their interests and needs, ranging from horseback riding helmets to sensory toys for the younger child with autism.
Consideration for optional gifts and support for this family is greatly appreciated. Interested donors are encouraged to call 417-866-8008 to learn which children in this family still need gifts.
Grandparents on Social Security Support Grandchildren
A loving grandmother and grandfather are caring for their grandchildren with the help of Social Security payments and support from their local community. According to the school, they are “doing a great job” and are tireless in their commitment to their family, despite facing multiple health issues and financial challenges.
The grandchildren have expressed modest wish lists, including Pokemon-related items and other age-appropriate gifts, while the grandparents appreciate practical and personal items such as aftershave, warm gloves, and a gift card for haircuts.
98-Year-Old Resident Hasn’t Lost Sweet Tooth
The oldest care center resident highlighted this year is a 98-year-old lady who has a penchant for sweets and enjoys singing her favorite song, “You Are My Sunshine.” Her Christmas wish list includes pajamas, a sweatsuit, and treats like Little Debbie chocolate chip pies and fudge cookies.
“Mint Man” Known for Compliments
Nicknamed “The Mint Man,” this elderly gentleman at the care center is known for his kind compliments and is seeking gifts like a pillow, a shirt, and tennis shoes, along with diet sodas and peppermints to continue passing out compliments to others.
About Share Your Christmas, How to Donate
For information on supporting Share Your Christmas families or care center residents, please call 417-866-8008 or email [email protected].
Monetary donations are also welcome and can be sent to Share Your Christmas, P.O. Box 3947, Springfield, MO 65808, with gifts due by December 13. Donors are encouraged to include a specific note on their checks if they wish to support a particular family or individual. Share Your Christmas truly appreciates every contribution during this holiday season.
Find the original article on Springfield News-Leader:
Share Your Christmas: Family hopeful as daughter’s cancer in remission