Family hurt by mental illness

Mental illness doesn't stop these parents from doing their best to care for their children.

For several years, the mom has struggled with depression, and also anxiety that is sometimes so intense she becomes afraid to leave the family's home.

"I can't work, it's so bad," the mom said.

Her husband, a U.S. Army veteran, also battles depression that is sometimes severe, along with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Despite struggles related to their treatment over the years, the mom and dad say they make providing a stable, happy home for their children a priority.

"Sometimes we need help," the mom said. "But we ask for it, and we make sure we get it."

The mother receives Social Security disability, and the father receives some money from the military, but it's often hard for the parents to make ends meet.

"It would be so nice to make a merry Christmas for the kids," the mom told Christmas for All.

With our readers' assistance, Press Christmas for All works to brighten the holidays for people like this - the jobless, homeless, those who are barely making ends meet, individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Many are alone this holiday season.

Each year, our generous readers' donations allow us to assist thousands of Kootenai County families in need. Each day until Christmas, we will share the stories of those whose holiday memories will be a little happier because of Press Christmas for All.

Donations are collected, then distributed in the form of gift cards to Kootenai County residents in need.

Press Christmas for All is a holiday charity now in its 29th year. It is managed as a nonprofit by The Hagadone Corp. Because it is run by volunteers from The Hagadone Corp. and their partners at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, every penny raised is distributed in the form of gift cards from local retailers who also generously support the program. The cards can be used to buy food and gifts but not alcohol or tobacco products. All contributions are tax deductible.

To give, please send a check to:

Press Christmas for All, 201 Second St., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.

You can also call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and donate by credit card.

Donations can be made securely online at www.christmasforallcda.com.

Recent donors include: Bonnie and Larry McDowell, in memory of my husband George and son Randy; Robert Avon; Robert and Teresa Shaw; Darin and Monique Hayes; Arthur and Nancy Flagan; Runge Furniture Company; Ann Jacobson; Anonymous; Vietri; Barton Benson; Kevin Chang; Kootenai Charities; Coeur d'Alene Insurance; William and Janice Bodlander; E. Corey and Janice Cherrstrom; Kiwanis Club, Inc of Cda; Bradley and Shariae Dugdale; Kevin and Nancy Boling.