GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Dentists are known for fixing smiles, and this holiday season, Dr. Brian Nylaan DDS is looking to spread cheer.
Nylaan, who has a practice on Plainfield Avenue, is collecting items to donate to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. They're looking for everything from batteries to underwear and even large print books. "Sometimes their vision is a little shaky," Nylaan said, "[so] get them a bigger-print book, because, really, they have nothing to do except sit there in that building."
This is the second year the dental office is collecting gifts and supplies, something Nylaan says he was inspired to do after he lost his father, who served in World War II.
"A year ago August, I lost my dad, which was really hard, and as time went on I wanted to do something to kind of pay tribute to him, and we came up with this idea," Nylaan said. "I mean, my dad was a World War II vet. He flew in a B-17 bomber. He wanted no part in ever getting in a bomber again, but it was a thank you to him and a thank you to the guys that are living over at that facility."
Donations are being accepted through December 14. The dental office has posted a list of suggested supplies on their website.