RMH

Noah, 6 years old, Sudbury, ON, 92 days,

What circumstance brought you and Noah to Ronald McDonald House Toronto?
Noah received a kidney transplant at Sick Kids hospital in March 2012.  As part of the treatment, we were required to stay in Toronto for 2-4 months after surgery for frequent follow up.  The follow up was daily, progressing to every other day, twice per week etc.

What was/is Noah’s medical diagnosis?
Chronic kidney disease with end stage renal failure.  Noah was receiving dialysis prior to transplantation of a new kidney.

What would you have done without the House?
We would have been isolated in a hotel room as Noah was immune suppressed and unable to be in crowded areas.  Also we wouldn’t have the support that was offered by parents, staff, and volunteers at Ronald McDonald House Toronto.

What surprised you most about the House?
The home-like environment, how welcoming the families were to new faces.  I expected the staff and volunteer to be exceptional, but the families were so receptive as well.  

What kind of impact did Noah’s diagnosis have on your family (emotionally, financially, other)?
It was emotionally hard on our whole family to have to watch Noah being sick (vomiting, tired, chronic itching, crying etc.).  It was difficult financially having to take time off to stay with Noah during his illness as well as the extra medical expenses incurred.

What did you enjoy most about your stay at the House/favourite memory?
The time I got to enjoy with Noah that was worry-free.  We got to do things just for ourselves with no other concerns.  We really got to enjoy Noah’s recovery! I also enjoyed meeting the families staying at the house and how much everyone related to and supported one another.  I also enjoyed the beautiful Easter dinner we had with my family provided by volunteers.

What would you like to say to those individuals and companies who donate funds to keep the House open and operating?
This house means everything to the people who stay there, it takes a huge worry away from families, it provides informal support for families by having others to talk to who are going through similar circumstances.

In what ways did your stay at the House impact Noah’s healing and recovery?
Noah had room to run and play, and other children to play with.  I believe having green space, a park, and little friends made Noah feel more like a regular 5 year old than a sick child.  We were able to stay a five minute walk from the hospital so we saved time to and from the hospital-less time worrying about treatment and more time together.  

Anything else you would like to add about your stay at the House? 
Our experience was an extremely positive one.  The house is a beautiful place that helps an overwhelming amount of children and families.  Many families would not be able to afford to be together [during their child’s illness] if the house was not available.  The staff and volunteers are welcoming and wonderful; and they provide the experience of a true home away from home.