Just two short years ago, Robyn Tolefree was in trouble: on drugs, pregnant and unable to even afford diapers for her older child.

Through it all, though, her mother was there.

"She is the one who brought me through this," said Tolefree, who quit drugs a year and a half ago. "She just kept talking to me."

Today, Tolefree is happy to say she's stayed sober and is taking care of two healthy girls, ages 2 years and 7 months. She lives with her mother in Makaha, where they were able to find an affordable rental home.

And Tolefree, 26, is optimistic about the future.

"I think positively," Tolefree said. "I try to stay strong for my girls."

Tolefree said her 2-year-old daughter, who was exposed to drugs in the womb, has not exhibited any serious developmental delays or medical problems. The girl has asthma, but otherwise is fine.

The family gets by on Tolefree's small disability-check. They also get food stamps, and the children get welfare assistance.

Despite her financial worries, Tolefree said she has been "blessed with a lot of things." Every day, she is thankful to have her girls with her and to have a good relationship with her mother.

For Christmas, Tolefree would love to surprise her girls with presents.

The 2-year-old, Dorretha, wants educational toys and books. Tolefree asked for baby toys and plush books for Dorrein, her 7-month-old.

Tolefree also needs baby items, including a stroller, crib and bottles, as well as items for her home. She said any help in getting curtains, dishes, pots and pans and furniture would be appreciated.

The girls need clothes: Dorretha wears a size 4T, and Dorrein needs size 9-12 months in infant clothing. Finally, Tolefree is asking for a used or new sewing machine for her mother. "Without her help, I don't think I would have my children," she said. "I just want something really, really special for her to appreciate what she's done for me."

RECENT DONATIONS TO THE ADVERTISER CHRISTMAS FUND

Ronald Pang — $200

Charley Black — $100

Honolulu Federal Credit Union — $100

Henry and Joan Oyama — $100

Arthur and Charlene Choy — $50

Jane Izutsu — $50

Thomas Nakano — $50

Carl Silva — $50

DeAnn Auwae, Shaun, Kayla, Austin and Zane Whitney — $40

Patricia Siquig — $30

P. Kaneda — $25

Ralph and Shizue Matsuda — $25

Anonymous — $200

Anonymous — $25

Anonymous — $20



Total: $ 1,065

Previous total: $ 38,374.67

Total to date: $ 39,439.67