DEAR SUN SPOTS: We were wondering if you can get a transplant for a pancreas and if so where? I am interested in more information. Thank you. — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: According to mayoclinic.com, almost all pancreas transplants are done to treat cases of type 1 diabetes. The side effects of a pancreas transplant can be significant, so pancreas transplants are typically reserved for those who have serious diabetes complications, such as kidney failure, and are not responding to other treatments.

Often, both pancreas and kidney are transplanted at the same time. The patient’s diseased pancreas is not removed during the procedure; the transplanted organ is attached in a different location.

According to their Web site, Maine Medical Center in Portland does pancreas and kidney transplants. As with any transplant, the patient must meet certain criteria to be eligible (healthy heart, weight, etc.).

One of the biggest obstacles to any transplant is waiting for an eligible organ. According to donatelife.net, an average of 18 people die each day waiting for a transplant.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to P.T. on Oct. 23, I recently saw a color wheel from the 1950s for an aluminum tree at the Sabattus Antique Mall on Route 126 in Sabattus, right across the road from Sabattus Pond. They are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day but Tuesday. I have seen lots of other vintage Christmas items there also. Thanks. — No Name, Jay

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DEAR SUN SPOTS: High Street Congregational Church, 106 Pleasant Street, Auburn, in thankful celebration of the arrival of our brand new hymnal and new pipe organ stop, would like to invite all folks who love to sing hymns to join us at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1, for a hymn sing. Come sing old favorites and discover some new ones. Also, everyone is welcome to attend the morning worship service of celebration and dedication of our new hymnal and renovated pipe organ; that service begins at 10 a.m. Of course there’s no charge. For more information call the church at 784-1306. Information and pictures about the pipe organ can be seen at http://abacus.bates.edu/~sross/histmain.html. — Chip Ross, No Town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is it possible to get the mailing address to USA Weekend? They have a Web site for their e-mail, but I have no access to a computer. The booklet in the Sunday newspaper has Sun Journal printed at the top of it. Thank you. — Christine, Lewiston

ANSWER: You can write to: Headquarters & Editorial Offices, USA WEEKEND, 7950 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, VA 22107, 800-487-2956, fax: 703-854-2122.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you so very much for finding a company that still had a few one-piece Playtex undergarments. Luckily they had my size. I took your advice and ordered three! I was desperate, as I had tried many different brands and style. You are a true blessing to so many people. Thank you again. — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: Sun Spots is very pleased she could help. It is often difficult to find a phone number for people who don’t have computer access to call. Many Web sites that used to supply a phone number no longer do so.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to Connie wanting to know where her hairstylist is, I am now at the Hair Connection, 1543 Hotel Road, Auburn, 783-4311. I look forward to seeing my past customers and welcome new ones. Thank you for Sun Spots. I enjoy reading it every day. — Diane Bryant, Auburn

DEAR READERS: Recently Sun Spots has received a number of
letters from people wanting to sell items. While we do print letters
from readers who are looking to buy items, especially those that are
unusual or hard to find, Sun Spots is not a vehicle for selling items,
only to give them away to those in need. To sell an item in the Sun
Journal classified ads, call 783-2281 or 800-482-0935.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.


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