After a surprising diagnosis, Ronald McDonald House provided support and stability for William and his family.
“They are a lifeline for interstate families such as ourselves.”
Following a fall, seven-month-old William was taken to Westmead Children’s Hospital by his parents, Jennifer and Rowan. To their surprise, he was admitted under neurology. It was then discovered that Will had Severe Dilated Cardiomyopathy and would require treatment to improve his heart health.
The decision was made to travel down from Buff Point in New South Wales to Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, staying at Ronald McDonald House Parkville. Being that far away from home is always an anxious time, and with the stress of a young, sick child, families need a place where they can still feel at home.
Will’s parents share that they will miss “the support from staff and volunteers” the most. In 2020, Ronald McDonald House Victoria and Tasmania had 336 volunteers who were generous enough to share their enthusiasm and time to help create a caring community.
Ronald McDonald House is built upon your public support to be able to provide accommodation at no cost to the family. For Rowan and Jennifer, “the ability to remain together as a family free from financial burden,” was the most beneficial part of staying at the House. “Without community support, we would have been unable to cope through this difficult time,” continue Will’s parents.
Public donations help alleviate stress from families who are struggling through a challenging and uncertain time of their lives.
Will has been progressing well and we wish him and his family the best in his recovery and look forward to visits from the family when they travel back to Victoria for check ups
Ronald McDonald House Victoria & Tasmania
Children like William, who has needed months of treatment, miss out on time spent at home surrounded by their family. The purpose of Ronald McDonald House is to provide a safe and supportive home-away-from-home for families when they need it the most.
In 2019 Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria & Tasmania supported 2,402 families.
