Help raise funds for Tom Wickersham

Lifestyles Editor


 

 

The joy that Tom and Pat Wickersham of Pleasanton, better known as Santa and Mrs. Claus, bring to children throughout South Texas cannot be measured.

Years ago, the Pleasanton Express staff had the opportunity to witness this display of love firsthand, as Santa and Mrs. Claus met with children at Jourdanton Head Start to distribute Christmas gifts. For the past 14 years, Mr. Wickersham has donated his time by making special appearances in Atascosa County and the surrounding area, for children wishing to take Santa photos. He donates the funds raised to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), without taking a penny.

They have passed on that love of community to their children, David Wickersham and Beth Ginn.

Now, the Wickersham family needs the public’s help.

Mr. Wickersham is currently battling tongue cancer and is in need of extensive dental work. His wife explained that Tom needs preventative work, so that he can keep his teeth. Extractions cannot ever be done due to the radiation. Radiation has deteriorated his teeth and although Aetna states that dental will be covered due to a serious illness or accident, Tom is not being covered. He has been denied twice, despite his doctors sending faxes and calling Austin to remedy the situation.

An account has been established at: https:// www.gofundme.com/ au8zf8.

Although the Wickershams had a tough time accepting this generous campaign started by their friend Cyndee Simmons, as they are usually the ones giving, they are so thankful for everyone thinking of them.

Simmons has known the family for many years. She serves as a board member for CASA of South Texas. Pat Wickersham serves as board secretary and Elizabeth Ginn is board president of the organzation. Her cousin, Mikel Allen, works with David Wickersham.

“I have seen how hard they work and they have such a giving spirit,” said Simmons. “I have very strong faith and I believe God takes care of us.”

Simmons said she is confident that the community will come through and show their support, especially with all the lives that the Wickershams have touched. She added that she feels honored to help them and knows that others feel the same way.

Both Tom and Pat Wickersham are retired school teachers and attend First Baptist Church of Pleasanton.

As explained when the couple received the Woman’s Club Couple of the Year Award in 2012, “In 2000, it came apparent by Tom’s snow white facial features, he could don a red suit trimmed in white fur to help raise money for CASA, along with his wife (AKA Mrs. Claus). This started what is now known as CASA Claus.”

They also have one grandson, Zachary Ginn.


Tom & Pat Wickersham

Tom & Pat Wickersham

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *