Toys for Tots ‘wish list’ brings new vision to program for kids
By SHARON KERR

When Toys for Tots gave kids the opportunity to name what they would really like for Christmas, one surprising response was “an eye exam and glasses.”

Jasper Police Association president Wanda Brister made that wish come true with the help of optometrist Dr. Gary Tatum and the Wal-Mart Vision Center.

“I had some (donated) glasses but they were too strong and made my eyes water. I’d take them off and then I couldn’t see,” middle school student Diana Aldaco explained.

Optician Betty Duckworth took one look at the prescription Dr. Tatum had written and said, “Oh, my.” She told the girl to pick any frame she liked, any at all.

Donated glasses had served their purpose, but didn’t offer much in the way of fashion choices for a 15- year-old girl, and now Aldaco had so many styles to try. She quickly settled on a pair with black frames that complemented her oval face.

Now she will be ready to start school with new eyes. When not studying, she enjoys shopping and movies. Aldaco also translates for the Headstart volunteer who serves several Spanish speaking families in the area.

TOYS FOR TOTS fulfilled a special request this year from a middle school student whose Christmas wish was for a an eye exam and a pair of glasses. Dr. Gary Tatum donated the eye exam for Diana Aldaco, and Wal-Mart Vision Center donated the glasses, giving the girl her choice of any frame she liked.

Toys for Tots and generous Jasper residents helped 106 families, 290 kids have a Merry Christmas this year.