RMH

What was your impression of the new Ronald McDonald House Toronto?
The new House in Toronto is even more amazing, bigger and more functional; but what strike me the most is the House’s meaning for the people that stay there. I am always amazed by that. This new House in Toronto will help three times the number of families they were serving before. It’s also amazing that it has its own classroom so that whole families can stay together.

What struck you most about your visit with the kids at RMH Toronto School on Wed. May 16th?
What struck me the most is their smiles! Everybody: parents, kids, employees, volunteers – everyone was smiling. These kids and families go through the unthinkable and it is so humbling to see how they all support each other. They truly inspired me.

You’ve been a House Ambassador for so many years – what moves you about the service and support Ronald McDonald Houses provide?
Is there a memory that stays with you? I’ve been Ambassador for the Houses for 13 year now and I’m so proud of that relationship. It is important for me to give back and I’m very sensitive to kids’ causes. Ronald McDonald Houses are one of the best thing that can happen for parents with a sick child that live far from the hospital. Most of the time, parents with a sick child have to give up everything to be with and support their child. The Houses, for some families, are the only help they can get. The memories that will always stay with me are the conversations with parents, and playing with the kids. One time I spent some time doing finger painting with some of the kids. It didn’t matter what they were going through: we were all laughing and smiling the whole time.