Resident donates can tabs collection, pushing Sabattus Elementary School halfway to the goal.

SABATTUS – Nine years ago Wally Atkins suffered a stroke, leaving him paralyzed on the right side and without speech. His only words are “No way.” He communicates with that and his expressions.

Atkins began collecting tabs from cans during his recovery and would like them to help Shrine Hospital burn victims. He is always happy when someone approaches him with a baggie filled with tabs.

Sabattus Elementary School, which has been collecting tabs for a goal of 228 gallons, has received Atkins’ collection. The donation has helped them go past the halfway mark.

The school has been collecting the tabs since the beginning of November and they will be donated to the Shrine Hospital at the end of May.

The hospital recycles the tabs for cash. Hospital officials said they receive between $15,000 and $20,000 for each truckload. The funds are used for medical costs, equipment and research.

Reaching the goal will serve two purposes for students – they will help burn patients and will see Pincipal Beverly Coursey with purple hair, which she has promised to dye when the goal is reached.

Those wishing can give donations to the Oakhill Cash Market, Sabattus Credit Union, Sabattus Town Library, Sabattus Corner Store or the Sabattus Elementary School.