Monthly Newsletter August 2024

The Malena family is on an ongoing journey at Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY) as they seek treatment for their son Daniel, diagnosed with Bilateral Wilms Tumor, a rare pediatric kidney cancer. Originally from the Dominican Republic, the family finds a supportive community at RMH-NY after arriving in 2018, allowing them to focus on Daniel’s health. The House provides not just a place to stay but also emotional support, with activities and resources that help the family navigate this challenging period. Daniel, his sister Valentina, and their parents, Claudia and Daniel Sr., are creating lasting memories and friendships during their stay, which bolsters their spirits and aids in Daniel’s recovery.

RMH-NY plays a critical role in easing the family’s burdens by offering reliable housing, nutritious food, and safe transportation. Claudia and Daniel Sr. express deep gratitude for the sense of community they find, emphasizing the importance of the friendships formed with other families and the support from the RMH-NY team. The family also experiences special moments, such as Daniel winning Bingo and meeting his favorite basketball players. As RMH-NY celebrates its 45th anniversary, the Malena family reflects on their time there with profound appreciation, recognizing the House as a sanctuary of compassion, support, and love during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

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Marie O’Brien was a beloved figure whose life was marked by her unwavering commitment to helping others, especially the underserved youth in New York City. As a dedicated schoolteacher, Marie chose to work in schools where students needed the most support and inspiration, rather than pursuing more prestigious positions. Her devotion extended beyond the classroom to her family, where she was cherished for her kindness, humor, and the special bond she shared with her nieces and nephews.

Though Marie never married or had children, her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. Her final act of generosity—a significant gift left in her will to Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY)—reflects her lifelong dedication to making a positive impact on the world. Marie, who lived near RMH-NY and often saw the children it served, was moved by the struggles these families faced and wanted to ensure that her legacy would continue to provide comfort and care to those in need.

Marie’s story is a powerful example of the lasting impact that planned giving can have. By including RMH-NY in her will, she has helped to ensure that the organization can continue its vital work, offering a home away from home for families with children undergoing medical treatment. Her generosity serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to consider how they too can leave a meaningful legacy that reflects their values and supports the causes they care about.

August is Make-A-Will month. If Marie’s story speaks to you, donate today. Reach out to RMH-NY Planned Giving at Legacy@rmh-newyork.org to discuss any questions regarding setting up your estate plans or to learn more about how your money directly supports our kids and the impact that your legacy donation would have on the families in our service.

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Reyna, a 15-year-old tap dancer and artist, recently spent a week recovering from surgery at Elmhurst Hospital, accompanied by her dedicated mother, Gloria. Gloria, a single mother balancing two jobs and caring for her three children, one of whom has autism, exemplified strength and resilience throughout the challenging hospital stay. During their time at the Ronald McDonald Family Room, the staff provided Reyna with art projects to brighten her days and offered Gloria small comforts, like a daily cappuccino, as they recognized her tireless commitment to her family.

As Reyna’s stay neared its end, the Family Room team surprised Gloria with gift cards as a token of appreciation for her strength and dedication, bringing tears of gratitude to her eyes. The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Elmhurst Hospital not only provided a space for rest but also offered compassion and support that left a lasting impact on both Reyna and Gloria. The bond formed with the Family Room team served as a reminder of the powerful role such spaces play in supporting families during difficult times.

Stories like Reyna and Gloria’s highlight the essential role of Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in creating a caring environment where families can focus on their children’s well-being. By offering thoughtful gestures and fostering a sense of community, the Family Room ensures that families receive the support they need during challenging hospital stays. The ongoing mission of expanding these family rooms across NYC aims to bring this level of care and compassion to even more families in need.

Recently, a dedicated team from Ronald McDonald House New York had the incredible opportunity to attend the Global RMHC Conference in Chicago. This event brought together change-makers from across the RMHC Global Network, offering a unique platform for learning, connection, and inspiration. The conference focused on critical topics such as change management, leadership transitions, food insecurity, and the future of pediatrics, providing valuable insights for the team to bring back and apply to their work in New York.

The week was not only educational but also deeply inspiring. The team had the chance to engage with other leaders and innovators within the RMHC community, exchanging ideas and strategies to enhance their impact on families in need. A highlight of the conference was a special screening of “Audrey’s Children,” a film that resonated deeply with the attendees, further fueling their passion for the mission of RMHC.

At RMH-NY, we know how precious time with loved ones can be. This is an event to bring a day of family centered fun to the families of NYC. Join us for a free event, open to the public, with something for everyone including crafts, rides, food and entertainment!

All are welcome, we hope to see you there!
Date: Saturday, September 21st
Time: 10AM – 3PM
Location: RMH-NY – 73rd Street between 1st & York Ave

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