When Ellen Mandel's friend underwent a double mastectomy for stage-two breast cancer, she needed all the support she could get. Ellen, ever caring, answered the call.

Some send flowers to sick friends. Others (Ellen included) send teddy bears. But no one needs as many teddy bears as Ellen delivered, no matter how ridiculous their costumes might be. Realizing her friend was in danger of disappearing beneath an avalanche of plush toys, Ellen switched tactics and began sending funny stories instead.

A cross between a clumsy Calamity Jane (yes, you read that right) and Gracie...