Many of us, unfortunately, know a family who has experience with a child who needs medial attention - whether it's a birth defect, serious disease or illness, accident or some other tragedy that leads them to long-term care in a medical facility. We all want the very best for our children, and certainly when it comes to their health, which often means traveling to another city or region for many families.
Ronald McDonald Houses provide a "home away from home" for families and their ill or injured children that travel far for treatment. These Homes allow them to connect with other families, and children to meet other children going through a similar experience. The Homes are comfortable, safe and offer a free or low-cost place so they can get a peaceful night's rest knowing their children are close.
Both of our children where in the NICU shortly after birth - Patrick for less than 24 hours, Marcelena for 7 days - and I've seen these many of such families. Marcelena was in the NICU after I was discharged and we made the 8 mile drive to St Vincent hospital often each day. We were fortunate to live near a hospital that was able to take care of her needs. Each time I walked by her shabby-chic pink nursery at the top of our stairs, I cried for my little girl who was fighting so hard to get strong enough to come home. We couldn't even hold her during those days in the NICU - it was a heart-breaking week but we still felt blessed looking around at the other families.
My career has led me to work with the Ronald McDonald Houses in Oregon so I'm familiar with many of the family stories. You can view some of them here at their site - they will all touch your heart. The Houses offer a tremendous, much-needed service to these families, but they can't do it alone. Here's just a few, fun ways you can help and get involved:
Help out around the House - Volunteers make a house a home!
Collect new toiletries to donate - Many families arrive at the hospital without a toothbrush or change of clothes. Toiletries can be really appreciated!
Make a meal for families - There is nothing more fun and rewarding than getting together with co-workers, friends or family to make a meal for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
Help out at a big event - Attending fundraising events is a great way to give back, but being part of the planning and execution is an even more rewarding experience.
Make a day of it - Let them help plan your next community service day at the Ronald McDonald House.
As a family, we're planning a weekend night to make dinner and spend time with the families there. It's a great experience for children and a nice way for them to interact and play with the children who might not have had a playdate in a long time.
Want a few more ideas? Find something at 30 Ways to Volunteer on their site. Most of these are simple, easy and fun for kids!
My husband's father opened the 1st Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia so they are near and dear to our hearts and we try to do whatever we can to help them! Thank you for writing this lovely post about them, they do such important work!
Posted by: Wendy | May 14, 2009 at 11:19 AM
It's amazing when you start to talk about the Ronald McDonald Houses how so many people have a connection. Thanks for sharing, Wendy!
Posted by: Gina | May 14, 2009 at 11:29 AM