By SANDI TERFORD

Herald-Whig Staff Writer

Hoping to find a better life, a good education and job security, Blake and Lana, not their real names, recently moved to the area from the southern United States.

Although the climate is drastically cooler than they are used to, they have been warmly embraced by a local community. This has been helpful as their young family tries to recover from major setbacks.

Together with their three young children, Blake and Lana are Case No. 9 in The Herald-Whig's Good News of Christmas campaign.

The children, all preschool age and younger, have major medical issues including a syndrome that causes paralysis and vision problems. Due to premature birth they require speech therapy, occupational therapy and a host of visits to medical specialists.

A caseworker familiar with the situation says Blake and Lana are actively involved in improving their situation.

"They are employed, have their children in preschool as well as home-based programs. They have also established local doctors and scheduled visits for treatment," the caseworker said.

Some of the major items that would benefit this family include a crib, twin bed with mattress, two dressers, and queen size bed frame and box spring. They could also use queen size sheets, dish towels, a microwave, bath mats and crib bedding.

Three-year old Austin would enjoy a bicycle with training wheels, Legos and Disney movies.

One-year-old Kylie would like a baby doll and carrier as well as dress-up clothes. Baby Ethan needs a crib mobile, teething ring and plat mat.

All the children are in need of clothing, shoes and winter outerwear. The family also needs diapers.

Blake would appreciate winter coveralls, T-shirts and thermal shirts.

Lana needs jeans, shoes and a winter coat.

To donate to this case or another Good News case, call (217) 223-5100 during business hours. Callers should ask for the Good News representative.