RMH

When doctors discovered a cancerous mass in Patrick Lacelle’s chest, the 17-year-old Sudbury teen and his mother were rushed by plane to Toronto.

“It was terrifying,” says Patrick’s mom, Debie. “Obviously I was scared about Patrick’s health, but leaving our safe, secure little town and relocating to a huge city like Toronto was frightening in itself.”

Debie’s nerves were calmed when she walked through the doors of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto. 

“Every single time I walked into the House, I was greeted with a warm, genuine smile. I knew the staff and volunteers were there to talk to if needed, and we always felt at home.”

Having spent time sleeping at the foot of Patrick’s hospital bed, Debie was grateful to discover the benefits of staying at RMHC Toronto during his treatment. Her family members were able to come and stay at the House with them, offering much needed support. Dinners were provided five nights a week, which was a relief after long days at the hospital. And the RMHC Toronto Wellness Program helped her relieve stress with yoga and complimentary massages.

For Patrick, the facilities at RMHC Toronto enabled him to complete his final year of high school on schedule and graduate with his friends. He’s currently in remission and looking forward to his future.

The Lacelle family is incredibly grateful to donors for their continued support.

“We can’t find the right words to express how important this place is,” says Debie. “During such an abnormal time, RMHC Toronto allowed us to feel normal. Thank you for supporting this amazing, necessary place.”