Loss of Car Major Blow

I have worked thousands of hours over the past six years at the Sepulveda Veterans Medical Center, donated almost 200 hours heading a colon cancer campaign for a national TV network, taken two AIDS patients (who had no place to live) into my apartment and nursed them to the end.

For three years I’ve delivered donated flowers to the AIDS ward at the Sherman Oaks Medical Center, and, until gas got too expensive, delivered food to shut-ins through Project Angel Food. For the past 22 years, I’ve conducted a personal Neighborhood Watch (my second floor patio faces the street and I’m a night person) and have thwarted innumerable car thefts and break-ins. I chair a senior citizens “HELP” organization and visit those in need of solace, trips to the store, doctor or who just need someone to talk to because they are lonely.

But, suddenly, I can no longer take part in this work. Early May 15, someone stole my car from my carport. They had far newer and more expensive cars to choose from, but they took my ’79 Ford Mustang hatchback, silver, with black trim, license 519WPJ.

I am a retired World War II disabled veteran, with severe osteoarthritis in both knees, and living on a below-minimum income, making it impossible to afford new transportation if my car isn’t returned.

My Auto Club offers a $5,000 reward to anyone if the thief is found and convicted.

Though the police were notified, I doubt they will succeed in finding the car unless it is observed breaking some law.

Because of something the thieves aren’t aware of, I suspect the car will be abandoned, probably in some neighborhood where no one will notice it hasn’t been moved for days. Please help by keeping your eyes open.

WAYNE HAMILTON, Studio City