Best Wishes For The Holidays

This is an edited installment of column about living with cancer that runs regularly on Larkspur-Corte Madera Patch.

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth …

Well, I have my two front teeth, so Santa, how about wrapping up some health and happiness for the holidays? Sure, that's on my wish list, but I'm not alone.

There are so many other people fighting cancer and other diseases, or who are trying to survive on the streets, or who are fighting addictions. So I'm calling on everyone to get into the spirit this holiday season and help out any way you can.

Maybe we can't cure cancer — yet — but we can make life better for cancer patients. There are children at Marin General Hospital who might be wondering if they'll be home for Christmas. Trust me, the hospital is not the best place to spend the holidays, but a few simple gifts might make it a little happier.

There are many ways to contribute to the community during these times. Some suggestions are movie passes, gift cards to music, book stores and clothing stores or eating establishments. Monetary donations can be used to fill wish lists.

• In Novato, consider giving to Novato Human Needs' Holiday Share program. Kids from needy families get to pick out gifts for their parents, and parents get to pick out gifts for their kids.

• Donate to the Marin County Food Bank by feeding the World's Largest Turkey at the Corte Madera Town Center. Drop off canned items in the Center Courtyard to help feed the needy.

• Hospice by the Bay volunteers are offering free gift wrapping at the Town Center. Donations are appreciated, however.

• Donate your time or services to the patients at Marin General Hospital and their families. Work in the gift gallery, baby nook, or other areas. Contact the volunteer department at (415) 925-7260 for other ways to contribute.

• Also, check with the local Lions Club, the Rotary Club, the American Legion and other organizations to find ways to volunteer. Check the Volunteer section on this site to find more opportunities.