RMH

Three-year-old Abel was a bubbly toddler living in Sudbury with his six older siblings when he got a diagnosis that changed everyone’s lives: leukemia. His family quickly learned they would need to uproot themselves so he could receive lifesaving treatment in Toronto, more than 400 kilometers away.

In one moment, life forever changed for Abel and his family.

Because Abel’s treatment would require multiple two-week stays in Toronto, his parents, Carmen and Charles, had to face many difficult questions.

How would they ensure Abel got the care he so desperately needed, so far from home? Where would their large family stay? How could they ensure all their children received the attention and support they needed?

Fortunately, Ronald McDonald House Toronto (RMH Toronto) was there.

Abel, his mom, and his oldest sister, Kiaya, moved into RMH Toronto so they could be together, close to the hospital. Abel’s father and other siblings decided to live at the House on weekends, travelling from the home of a nearby friend where they are staying during the week. 

“There’s no way we could afford to stay together as a family if Ronald McDonald House Toronto was not here,” says Charles.

During the week, Kiaya attends classes at the RMH Toronto School, just like she does at home. Abel and his family have been able to make full use of the spaces and programs available at the House. Whether playing together outside or participating in creative arts, movie nights and pet therapy visits, RMH Toronto gives Abel and his family what they so desperately need: a chance to be together and a welcome distraction from a challenging situation.

“There’s a sense of sanctuary here,” says Charles. “It doesn’t take away the fact that you have a problem, but it sure makes it easier to deal with."