Emily Shuru was 47 and living in Micronesia two years ago when she was diagnosed with kidney failure. Because she would need dialysis treatments three times a week, it was decided that she should travel to Hawai'i for the treatments and care.

Shuru arrived on O'ahu accompanied by her 23-year-old daughter to assist her. Her husband, Sandy Shuru, 52, and 2-year-old grandson remained behind in Chuuk with the idea that they would join Emily and her daughter later, which they did.

For a while, the Shurus stayed with relatives on O'ahu. But the arrangement was temporary, and when it ended, the family wound up living on the street. For several months, they sought shelter at nights at the Institute for Human Services.

Their fortunes improved when they were able to move into the Onemalu Transitional Shelter for homeless families at Kalaeloa. Although Sandy Shuru has actively tried to find a job, he has had little success in the Islands' troubled economic climate.

The Shurus' daughter and her husband, who now lives with the family, have added two more sons, ages 3 and 1, to the household. And although the Shurus' son-in-law is working steadily, with only one income, the family of seven struggles.

Still, they are thankful that Emily Shuru is getting regular dialysis treatments, and that their lives have improved. They would be grateful for any outside help to make the children's Christmas bright.

"Our income is enough to buy food and pay for our program fee," Emily said. "With the holiday approaching, we are not able to afford to buy gifts for the children. Clothes for the adults would also be greatly appreciated."

RECENT DONATIONS TO THE ADVERTISER CHRISTMAS FUND

Louise N. Matsushige — $300
In memory of George & Rachel Kagehiro — $250
In memory of Rusty, Jean & Mits — $100
In memory of Vivian Minamoto — $100
In memory of Jinkichi & Haruyo Okada — $100
Aloha State Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Inc. — $100
John C. & Marilyn K. Kiner — $100
William H. Roome — $100
Randolph W. & Stephanie K. Sakauye — $100
S. Young — $100
Barny H. Gomes — $75
Max L. Minor — $75
H. & S. Asato — $50
Robert K. & Nancy S. Moritomo — $50
Bonifacia Leasure & Trisha A. Brownrigg — $35
Beverly H. Shelley — $30
In memory of Norris Shimabuku — $25
Warren S. & Deborah A. Saito — $25
Anonymous — $1,000
Anonymous — $100
Anonymous — $10
Total — $2,825
Previous total — $34,215
Grand total — $37,040