Twelve-year-old Alexis has come to know the Ronald McDonald House well. His first stay was 7 years ago, when he was only 5 years old and had been diagnosed with congenital short femur. His family decided to seek treatment at Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Springfield, Massachusetts. Accompanied by his mother, Laura, Alexis travelled over 5,000 miles from the island country of Cyprus in the Mediterranean. It was the family’s first visit to the United States. The Ronald McDonald House of Springfield became home during his first surgery.
“We didn’t know what to expect, but the RMH was exactly what we needed: a home-away-from-home, providing all the amenities needed by a family,” shared Laura.
Since their first visit, Alexis has returned 3 more times for follow-up procedures and check-ups. Over the course of their stays, the family fondly recalls meeting other families at the House and bonding over a shared experience, an understanding, and a connection which is often hard to find outside the Ronald McDonald House.
According to Laura, “It’s now our 4th time here and every time we come, we feel the same warmth, blessing and welcome, as a family. We’ll never forget those who helped us on this difficult journey. The doctors and nurses and the amazing staff of RMH who made our stay much easier than we expected. A big thank you to all, from the bottom of our hearts!”
Basketball, reading, playstation
A basketball player
Play with my friends
My family
My family and friends. Love and family security.
Every day, families face the challenge of having a child in the hospital, and your generosity helps Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts keep them together. Learn more about our programs and join our community of supporters.