SAN ANTONIO -- Louise Locker, aka "Elf Louise," has received dozens of letters, cards, e-mails and phone calls of support since she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

"There are lots of people praying for me and it means so much to me," Locker said in an interview Tuesday.

Locker said the cancer has spread to her lymph nodes.

A woman who's spent most of her life making sure needy kids receive a Christmas gift is now on the receiving end of generosity.

The Bank of San Antonio has set up a fund to help Locker with future medical expenses.

"Elf Louise is an icon in the community," said bank chairman Bruce Bugg. "This is a very unique and needed opportunity to help Elf Louise. It's a chance to give back to her."

Locker said the support makes her shy and overwhelmed, but she is extremely encouraged.

"It just makes the difference between feeling some despair and some fear and maybe kind of being in a dark place to being completely lifted up," she said.

Locker's treatment may include three to six months of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.

Locker said she hopes the community will rally together to donate and raise money to give toys to 20,000 children this holiday season.

To make a donation to the fund, log on to thebankofsa.com or call 210-807-5550.

For more information about the Elf Louise Christmas Project, log on to elflouise.com.