Meet Baden

When he was born, he was so little his parents, Joanne and Fred, could hold him in the palm of their hand. They were devastated, and terrified, when doctors told them he had a critical immune disorder.

RMH Toronto was their home during the six long months while Joanne and Fred waited for Baden to receive a life-saving bone marrow transplant. Thankfully, his transplant was a success, but they have stayed at the House several times since.

Four years ago, they returned to the House over the holidays when Baden was again fighting for his life at SickKids. Joanne and Fred were so glad to have a warm and supportive home to go to during yet another frightening time.

They had rushed Baden to hospital not knowing what was wrong or how long they would be away. They assumed we would be back home, surrounded by friends and family to open gifts and enjoy the season. They weren’t.

Thankfully they were surrounded by new friends at RMH Toronto who welcomed them like family.

The House was filled with other families like theirs – parents looking for someone who understood their pain and children looking for a friend to play with. After long days at the hospital, everyone congregated in the kitchen for dinner. Meals were filled with great food, heartfelt laughter, genuine tears and good conversation.

Thankfully, that was the last time they stayed at the House – and both Joanne and Fred hope they never have to again. But for families who need to be in Toronto to get their child the best care possible, RMH Toronto is the only place they should be.

Years later, the House is still close to their hearts. Baden is now a healthy six-year-old who loves hockey, basketball and rock music. Thankfully, this year they will be at home for the holidays, but there are 28 families who won’t be. These families will be leaning on one another at Ronald McDonald House Toronto.