(Strip Number 766, Original Publication Date, 17 December 1984)
Panel 1: As our story continues, we find John sitting in his chair with his foot propped up when Mike tells him that Mom's back from picking up the groceries he left at the store.
Panel 2: Before Elly puts the groceries away, she tells him that Megafoods packed up everything he'd put in the basket before the accident for him because (unlike his "loving" family) they were worried about him.
Panel 3: She then tells him that as a good will gesture (and not because they can't sell it now or don't want to get sued), the store is going to give them the great big turkey for free.
Panel 4: Sadly, Elly ruins the moment by making an inane joke about whether they should eat it or have it bronzed. John is not thrilled by this.
Summary: I'm beginning to understand why John acts the way he does. Since he doesn't get sympathy, he doesn't give it either. Also, the good-will gesture involved manages to last until pretty much the end of Christmas break despite the fact that they invite Phil, Georgia and Mrs Baird over for Christmas dinner.