RMH

"Ronald McDonald House Toronto has extended our child's life. When we're here and Nathan's here everyone just breathes a little easier."

Throughout his three-and-a-half years of treatment for leukemia, Nathan and his family have spent time in both the current Ronald McDonald House Toronto and at the previous House on Gerrard Street. Nathan relapsed last fall after being out of treatment for only three months.

With Nathan receiving treatment both in and out of hospital, his mom is quick to point out a number of ways that staying at the House helps keep a sense of normalcy in their lives. Big things, like the fact that Nathan will be able to attend the Ronald McDonald House Toronto School while undergoing daily out-patient treaments at the nearby hospital. "He couldn't do that at home, or at the hospital, so he's going to have a normal routine."

Nathan's mom is also grateful for the thoughtful, home-like touches throughout the House: "A lot of thought went into the House. It's so safe. Laundry has become therapeutic here. We use the Clubhouse a lot – they've got all the great toys so he gets the hockey sticks out with my husband. My daughter rides her tricycle in circles around them – it's like something out of a commercial; and driving the House Subaru – I just feel like I'm at home." – Nathan's  Mom