Struggling mom to Christmas for All donors: 'You are the miracle'

This mother of three young children is dealing with serious health issues this holiday season.

But she’s not letting it get her down.

“This Christmas I am thankful that I will be able to spend the time at home, with my boys and spend some quality time this holiday,” the mom told Press Christmas for All.

For most of the last year, she has been struggling with her health and was diagnosed with liver disease, liver tumors and another condition that causes stomach and chest pain.

She mustered through those months to maintain her full-time job as a nurse.

“We have lost many material things over the last nine months and have been shown that the real gifts we have and receive are the gifts and love of the family and friends that support us in the rough times,” she said.

Press Christmas for All has a special place in her heart, she said, since she has relied on the program in the past, at times when it was the only way she could provide any Christmas joy for her children.

“Asking for help again this Christmas is not only embarrassing, but an eye-opener that not everyone who needs help during times like these are who society pins them to be,” the mom said. “I am humbled to apply for the Christmas For All Program once again to help save Christmas for my boys.”

She said she looks forward to the day when she is on the other side of this situation and able to help others in need.

“I genuinely thank you all for all you do and any help that I am blessed with this Christmas will be appreciated,” the mother said.

Speaking to all who donate and the volunteers who make Press Christmas for All happen, she said:

“You are the miracle that makes Christmas for many families around, and I for one am forever grateful.”

This is the 32nd year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of people like this during the holiday season.

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.

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.

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 are tax-deductible and 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 goo.gl/WospPG.

Recent donors: Nancy Moen Wilson and Family; Shari Moore “In memory of Dylan, DoryMay, Tor and the Dobermans”; Charles and Judith Farrey; Donna Walker; Edward and Susan Leach; David and Kim Wanecke; Al and Robin Near; Marston and Julie Westbrook; David and Karen Crouse; Carl and Sandra Stouffer.