Be A Santa

Christmas is the season of Joy, glad tidings and the birth of Jesus Christ. It's also the season of sharing gifts with our family and friends. Christmas is a celebration.

For me it's not always easy to celebrate. In 1987 my youngest son was diagnosed with T-Cell Leukemia. I was a single mother of two sons, my youngest son was fighting for his life. The medical team had advised me to leave the school of nursing program I was in and be at Jason's bedside. I did not hesitate and immediately took a leave of absence from nursing school. My two son's needed my attention.

Of course the situation put me in dire straits financially. I had no job, no student loan income and no money to buy a Christmas tree or presents for my two sons. The prospect of not having a gift for my sons devastated me. With a heavy heart I held out my hand and asked for help. I had to apply for Social Assistance to help meet our living expenses. It was not the proudest moment in my life. I was embarrassed and uncomfortable asking for financial help.

I never forgot that moment. And I made it my mission to always help other families at Christmas. Now through the Kids with Cancer Society we offer financial support to families in need at Christmas. We just simply give them a Christmas gift of finances so they can buy gifts and Christmas dinner for their family. I am so glad that we are able to help these families.

This year, if you have the resources, contact your local children's hospital and offer to buy Christmas for a family who is in need. If you need help with this, contact me and I will help you connect with the right people. Be a Santa and help others with the celebration.

Merry Christmas and Bless you all. regards Sheila Ethier