Several months ago, Member Tom C. came in to perform shift 100 on the airporter. During the process of a pre-trip, while trying to open a sticky battery door, Tom experienced severe pain and collapsed in the parking lot. In great pain and virtually unable to move, Tom lay waiting for anyone to come to work, anyone that might hear his calls and come to his aid.

Michael Ball was that someone. Doctors first diagnosed a severe hernia, however two weeks later it was determined to be much more serious. Tom was referred to a Neurosurgeon. He now has a small plate and two screws in his lower back. The surgeon says Tom needs another surgery, however L&I is refusing to cover it. Attorney's are involved - meanwhile, Tom waits.

In the interim, Tom is receiving 55% of his earnings through L&I. Assuming they credit him for working 40 hours per week, that leaves $17,732.00 per year to live on! To add insult to injury, he receives too much money to qualify for food stamps or WIC assistance. Tom has a wife and a two year old daughter. With this cold weather, they're using a space heater to keep the child warm because there's no money to heat the whole apartment!

Needless to say, there is little promise of Christmas for young Kaydence, her mother Kyli, or for Tom. That's where we come in. There is a container at the Dispatch counter for you to deposit donations to help provide Christmas for their family. Additionally, there is a box in the drivers' room for food donations. (The only things they've asked for assistance with are food and diapers (size 4))

Two year old Kaydence is a size 3T. I've pressed Tom for sizes for himself and his wife, but still don't have those. Devoid of sizes, a gift card from Old Navy, or similar store, would probably be in good taste for both Tom and Kyli.

Times are tight for all of us. Timing of our Safety Bonuses may help some to contribute. Please help in any way you can. Everyone deserves a little joy and harmony at Christmas.

It is with warm heart that I commend all members of Local 161 for the giving generosity for our members in need this year. In addition to ongoing efforts for others, we provided this family with a large box of food, a huge container of diapers for the child, several presents under the tree for the little girl, and one each to Tom and his wife, Kyli. Additionally, there was a prepaid gas card and a pre-paid Visa card, to help with purchases needed in the future. We have gone a long way to provide a little Christmas in a house that might not have been so happy.

We are still collecting for more children, so please keep the generosity flowing. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, happy holidays to you and yours.