Sickness and septic tank trouble elderly couple

The only thing this retired gentleman has on his wish list is a nice Christmas dinner with his wife, but circumstances are making that difficult this year.

He told Press Christmas for All that he has been fighting cancer for four years. The man has remained active, even assisting his neighbors by mowing lawns and helping with chores; but this year, the cancer has worsened, and he had to start taking chemotherapy shots.

With his medical issues, and with both he and his wife on a fixed income, the couple is on a tight budget. Recently, they had to pay to fix a septic tank that was clogged with tree roots, wiping out much of their disposable income.

“This has really put my buying Christmas dinner for my wife in a tail spin,” he said. “This is why I’m asking for help for a Christmas wish. Thank you very much.”

This is the 30th year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of Kootenai County residents in need during the holiday season.

Each year, Press readers donate generously to the program. The money collected is distributed in the form of gift cards to those who might not otherwise be able to put a holiday meal on the table or purchase a small gift for a child. The program helps everyone in need, including struggling young families, seniors, people with disabilities and mental illnesses. Many are alone, and despair is a common factor.

Through Christmas for All, these less fortunate neighbors feel the compassion of a caring community during what can be a very difficult time of year for them.

Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. It is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers at The Hagadone Corp., the Coeur d’Alene Press and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Every penny raised is distributed to needy Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp. and the volunteers at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Donations can be made by dropping off or mailing a check to: Press Christmas for All, 215 Second St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

Online donations can be made by visiting http://bit.ly/ChristmasforAllDonations

Donations are also accepted by phone. Call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to use a credit card to contribute.

Recent donors: Dean & Judy Stepp; Dusty & Audrey Rhoads; Gary & Pauline Rahm; Doris Bartlett; Lucie Maier; Paul & Patricia Barrett; Delmar & June Gittel; Catherine Tinder; Thomas & Judith Townsend; Julia & James Mangan; Del & Lucille Bradshaw; Sara Ferris; Dixie & Alfred Braun; Chris Mikles; Rhoda & Clifford Schlehuber; CDA Athletic Roundtable Trust; Warren Keene.