December 13, 2002
Berrien County - It looks like Santa's paid an early visit to 7-year-old Lauren Dillingham's house. But the gifts that fill her living room aren't for Lauren. She's collected them for a special project she calls "Love Lauren."
"We're going to take all these goodies to Scottish Rite so those sick kids can get a surprise for Christmas," said Dillingham.
Lauren was in Scottish Rite last February for fibrous dysplasia - a rare bone degenerating disorder that tore away at Lauren's jaw bone. During her stay she was showered with gifts for the local schools and community, and decided when she left she wanted to make a difference too.
"I feel like this is something I can do to show the true meaning of Christmas," said Dillingham. "A lot of these kids' parents have to spend money on hospital bills and may not have much to spend on Christmas."
Along with the toys, Lauren's also collected $1100.00 and even had her grandmother make some colorful hospital gowns. Her mother, Rhonda Nash, says with a little help from her 10-year-old brother Kalen, Lauren has completely developed the charity project on her own.
"I came home one day and they were picking up pecans and when I asked them why, they said to help the kids at Scottish Rites," said Nash. "I couldn't be more proud of my children for such a selfless effort."
"Love, Lauren" was started as a Christmas project, but Lauren and her family hope to make it an effort for all holidays and fill the halls of Scottish Rite with laughter year round.
Donation Drop Off Sites
- Berrien County Hospital
- Dixon's Seed
- Hair Worx
- Vivian's
- Obsolete Chevrolet
- Dr. William D. Nash's office
- James Auto Parts
posted at 1:45 by ashley.harper@walb.com
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Worldnow and WALB, a Raycom Media Station. 
