Late in 2023, Jeannette and her family made the difficult decision to travel from their home in Florida to Denver to get crucial medical care for their daughter. At the time, they expected to stay 4-6 weeks. With no solid plan for housing while in Denver, the family first checked into a hotel knowing that the cost would be exorbitant. “We were going to do whatever it took to save her life,” Jeannette said.
Fortunately, a social worker at their hospital found them a room at the Denver Ronald McDonald House soon after. “I literally cried when I found out there was a room available at the House,” she said. “Financially, it helped more than you can imagine.”
At the time, the family expected they would stay 4-6 weeks. But, in the end, Jeannette stayed at the House for over seven months while her daughter received treatment. “Without RMHC of Denver providing us with a home-away-from-home, it would not have been possible for us to remain in Denver so that my daughter could get the treatment that she desperately needed. The House will all always have a special place in my heart,” she said.
Jeannette says Ronald McDonald House of Denver provided more than just financial support. Within the House, Jeannette found a reassuring “home away from home” during a very dark time. Whether providing a hot meal or offering a listening ear, Jeannette says the staff and volunteers “saved her.”
“Each and every staff member is a gift and a blessing, and the families at RMHC of Denver are so lucky to have them; their dedication, kindness, willingness to help, welcoming smiles, and listening ears, demonstrates how much they genuinely care,” she said.
Jeannette says she will be forever thankful for the support, kindness, generosity and amazing people she met during her stay and is committed to giving back in any way that she can. She plans to reach out to her local Ronald McDonald House and inquire about their volunteer opportunities.