Donors give more than half the tuition

She has a good chance of attending a nine-week summer camp for obese and overweight children, thanks to recent community support.

So far, individuals locally and across the country have donated a total of $3,600 toward the summer camp's $6,795 tuition, after reading about Annjeanette's story in the Mail Tribune and seeing her featured in the TV show "Extra."

An estimated $1,500 of the total amount donated came from contributors across the country who saw her on the TV show.

"Extra" is also donating Annjeanette's air fare to the camp, said Nancy Malone, the school nurse working with Annjeanette and her family.

Annjeanette attends Washington Elementary School. Her family cannot afford the camp tuition.

Camp LaJolla, in Southern California, claims an estimated 80 percent of the children who attend lose weight and maintain their new weight level. The camp is providing a free week for Annjeanette.

The camp starts June 20, and more donations are still needed. For more information on how to help, call Malone or Sue Koury at Washington Elementary School, 776-8862 or 776-8860.

Contributors can donate to the Washington school fund at any Western Bank on behalf of Annjeanette.

"I think it's great," Annjeanette said of all the contributions. She looks forward to camp to lose weight, have fun and meet new friends, she said.

Her biggest problem with her weight -- 275 pounds on her 4-foot-8 frame -- is the teasing and name calling from others, she said. She tries hard not to cry or let it get to her. She is also aware of the health risk from her weight, especially her breathing problems.

"We are getting great community support," Malone said.

She said the camp is an important factor in changing Annjeanette's weight problem.

"This is really motivating her," Malone said. "She's committed to losing weight, and it's just a boost for the whole family that this is happening."

Many members of her family are overweight, including her father, Jack Whaley, who is a strong supporter of getting Annjeanette to camp.

He knows the camp can change his daughter's life in a way he can't, he said.