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Family of nine could use some cheer Sunday Dec 10, 2017 at 12:01 AM Sarah Lemon for the Mail Tribune @thewholedish Editor’s note: Light One Candle is an annual series sponsored by the Mail Tribune that focuses on an individual, group or agency who could use a helping hand during the holiday season. Once that need is filled, donations may be distributed to others in need. Fighting summer wildfires improved these parents’ prospects before on-the-job injuries prevented the father of seven from working. Amid this stress, the 31-year-old mother prematurely delivered a boy, who required neonatal intensive care earlier this month. The joy of birth is clouded for this couple by financial hardships, worries over losing their housing and meager holidays for their six other children. Local charities helped to furnish the family’s Medford apartment, a refuge from the homelessness they endured last summer. Most of their belongings were destroyed when a bear raided their campsite while the family was away. The older children have mattresses but lack warm blankets. The baby needs a crib, blankets, car seat, bunting, diapers and toiletries. The 2- and 3-year-old boys need winter clothing in sizes 3T and 5T, respectively. They both like playing with cars. The younger also enjoys balls and trains, while his older brother is fond of coloring and any toys with lights and sounds. Coloring and writing also appeal to the 6-year-old girl, who likes Barbie dolls and loves her mother’s way with hair-styling. Pretty hair accessories would delight the girl, who wears size-6X clothing and size-12 shoes. Also interested in Barbie dolls, the 7-year-old girl likes reading, beading and Nerf guns. She needs size-7 clothes, socks and size-1 shoes. Favoring sports-themed and athletic clothing, the 12-year-old boy wears size 12/14 in teens. In addition to sports and balls, he likes movies and Legos. The oldest sibling, a 13-year-old girl, is a nature lover who yearns to take photographs. She wishes for a Polaroid-type camera, as well as teacups, coffee cups and hair accessories. She wears women’s clothing size one-half and size-9 shoes. To help, call Family Nurturing Center at 541-779-5242.