Family Story: Hayley’s Daily Joy at the Claw Machine
“Medical technology today is not what it used to be. This battle is not as hard to fight as before. Let us keep fighting—stay strong!”
At our Shatin House, the very first house of Ronald McDonald House in Hong Kong, which is also the first in Asia—continues to provide a “Home away from Home” for families of sick children. Among those currently sheltered within here are young Hayley and her mother.
Overnight, Small Things Became Big Things
“Mummy, it hurts.” From last December, six-year-old Hayley began complaining of pain in her limbs. At first, the discomfort came and went, but by January, when her parents saw the pain getting worse, they decided to take her to Tuen Mun Hospital’s emergency department.
That night, the doctor felt lumps in Hayley’s neck and liver during the examination. He gently advised the parents to prepare themselves for the worst, offering a preliminary diagnosis of leukemia. Everything happened so fast and so suddenly that all her mother could think was, “Does she need surgery?” and “Do we need to donate bone marrow?”
The following day, Hayley was transferred to the Children’s Hospital, where the diagnosis was formally confirmed: T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
“It went from something small to something big, all in one night,” her mother said. That summary was just the beginning. What followed was an overwhelming amount of information, intensive treatment plans, survival rate statistics, and the start of chemotherapy. Hayley’s parents chose to face it with strength and calmness, because there was only one path forward: to trust the treatment and take it step by step.
The Challenge of a Short Leave from the Hospital
On their very first day at the hospital, a medical social worker introduced Ronald McDonald House to Hayley’s mother. But back then, her knowledge of the charity was limited to McDonald’s restaurants and the charity raffle tickets;—she didn’t really understand the service. Although the family lived in Tuen Mun, she thought they could just go home if needed, so she politely declined the offer.
Reality, however, soon presented a harsh lesson. During a brief three-day home leave, Hayley developed a fever and had to be rushed back to the hospital. For a child with leukemia, a fever during chemotherapy can be very serious, and treatment has to be paused. This incident not only prolonged the entire treatment process but also put the whole family on edge.
Her mother realized that with all the clutter and toys at home, it was impossible to maintain a completely sterile, clean environment. At the same time, Hayley’s little sister often had a runny nose or cough from kindergarten. To protect Hayley from cross-infection, even if she could leave the hospital again briefly, she couldn’t go home.
A Fully Equipped Second Home
“My first impression upon arrival was how peaceful and clean it was. More importantly, you truly do not need to bring a single thing to move in,” her mother notes with profound gratitude. For a mother who has to take care of a sick child, and can hardly find time to buy daily necessities, the thoughtful arrangements at the House were touching.
What her mother appreciates most is the communal kitchen, fully equipped with utensils and rice cookers. Without needing to buy anything new, she could easily steam a fish and cook a bowl of rice, preparing fresh, nutritious home-cooked meals to boost Hayley’s strength and immunity.
For little Hayley, the House felt more like a colorful playground. What attracted her most was the claw machine. ” I can play with the claw machine whenever I want!” That became her daily entertainment during treatment. Her father works during the weekdays, and her younger sister has school. Because of this, they would make a special trip to visit on weekends so the whole family could finally spend some time together.
These were moments hard to achieve inside a hospital.
Easy Moments Within a Routine
Over the past three months of her stay, Hayley has established a comforting routine. Between regular hospital checkups, school assignments, and watching television, she enthusiastically participates in activities organized by the House, such as pizza-making workshops and Easter egg hunts. These vibrant, ordinary slices of life offer a beautiful distraction from her therapy.
Before moving here, Hayley often ran a fever after chemotherapy. But during her stay at Ronald McDonald House, she hasn’t had a fever again. In Hayley’s eyes, Ronald McDonald House is warm “yellow”—the color of the Shatin House building, and perhaps also a ray of sunshine brightening her journey through illness.
Words from the Heart for Companions
The House is far more than a place to pass the time or a physical shelter; it is a profound haven where parents can exchange knowing nods, share quiet conversations, and vent their frustrations. Though Hayley’s mother smiles and acknowledges that everyone has to go through their own journey and that excessive advice is rarely needed, she admits that the silent, empathetic companionship of other families brings an invaluable sense of peace.
To other families currently navigating similar storms, she offers these words of encouragement: ” Medical technology today is not what it used to be. This battle is not as hard to fight as before. Let us keep fighting—stay strong!”
Hayley’s family story continues to unfold within the embrace of the little yellow house. There, the beloved claw machine and the fully equipped kitchen remain their corners of joy in the fight against illness.
Monthly Donor Story : A Decade of Dedication
“Money can transform into a better life for others, offering a sweet respite amidst their hardships. This brings immense satisfaction to my soul.”
Seeds of Compassion Planted in Childhood
Peggy has loved McDonald’s since childhood, it was where she spent precious moments with her grandmother. Her grandmother was from Teochew, a city near the South China Sea, she had a special fondness for Filet-O-Fish burgers. These simple yet joyful memories became treasured fragments of her childhood. This warmth also fostered a sense of familiarity and trust in Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).
A Sense of Mission in Adulthood
As Peggy grew older, she became a professional in wealth management. She developed a deep concern for the elderly and children in society. After establishing herself in her career, she wanted to use her resources to make a meaningful impact every month. She believes that charitable organizations cannot rely solely on corporate support; they need sustained public participation to operate long-term and help more people in need. Thus, she chose to become a monthly donor to RMHC Hong Kong, fulfilling her social responsibility.
Honoring Commitments Through Monthly Donations
Why did she choose RMHC? Peggy learned that there are few organizations in Hong Kong specifically supporting ill children and their families, who often face tremendous pressure and challenges. She incorporates her monthly donations into her routine expenses, treating them as essential as food, clothing, and shelter. For over a decade, despite the global economic uncertainties, she has never interrupted her donations. Instead, as her income grew, she considered gradually increasing her contributions. To her, this is a commitment to society especially during economic downturns when corporate and public donations may decline, making fundraising more difficult for charities. “I strive to remain faithful to my original intention.”she says. To this day, she still keeps the thank-you letters we send to our monthly donors every year.
Witnessing the Impact of Donations
Recently, Peggy visited the Kwun Tong House. She was moved by the loving and thoughtful environment: rounded corners, soft lighting, vibrant colors, and plenty of toys—all reflecting care for families with ill children. She saw parents supporting each other in the communal kitchen and children laughing and playing in the play area, deeply feeling the meaning of her donations: “Money can transform into a better life for others, offering a sweet respite amidst their hardships. This brings immense satisfaction to my soul.”
Vision for the Future
RMHC Hong Kong provides a “Home away from Home” for families of ill children, helping them reduce burdens and regain hope during treatment. Due to her busy schedule, Peggy currently fulfills her social commitment through donations. However, she hopes to join the volunteer team after retirement and contribute in places like the communal kitchen. She sincerely invites everyone to support RMHC through monthly donations, helping more families on their healing journeys and making them feel the warmth and companionship of society.
Let’s join hands to brighten the lives of ill children and their families with monthly donations—spreading love and hope.
Volunteer Story: Wiping Away the Dust, Lighting Up the Heart
“If you have the means, donate. If you have the time, volunteer. But I want to do both!”
In March 2024, Anne first came across Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong (RMHC HK) through social media. She was deeply moved by the family stories she read and immediately signed up online, eager to join this loving community. “If you have the means, donate. If you have the time, volunteer. But I want to do both!” Anne shared with a smile. Anne, who works in the insurance industry, dedicates her Friday mornings to volunteering at RMHC HK. Her role involves cleaning toys, kitchens, and rooms at the House, ensuring that the environment remains warm and welcoming for families in need.
A Heart Full of Happiness
RMHC HK welcome anyone with a desire to contribute. By understanding each volunteer’s interests, skills, and experience, they assign roles that allow everyone to thrive. Anne found this open and inclusive approach reassuring, making her feel comfortable taking on her responsibilities. Prior to joining RMHC HK, Anne had volunteered with other organizations, helping distribute meals and supplies. But this time, she chose to focus on cleaning after realizing during the volunteer briefing that few people were willing to take on this task. Anne stepped up, knowing how important cleanliness is to the families living at the House. For Anne, cleaning has also become a peaceful and therapeutic escape from the pressures of her daily work.
When Anne first arrived at the Kwun Tong House, she was impressed by its well-thought-out design and beautiful environment. However, what left the deepest impression on her was the families staying there. Previously, she had only seen stories of sick children and their caregivers in media. Now, as a volunteer, she could interact with them up close. Anne found every child unique and adorable in their own way. After meals, children would run joyfully to the play area, their laughter filling the House. Meanwhile, parents exchanged greetings and caregiving tips while cooking in the communal kitchen. These heartwarming scenes gave Anne a deep sense of fulfillment and strengthened her commitment to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for the families.
Learning from the Children
Having been a volunteer for more than two years, Anne reflects on how this journey has impacted her. Working in the fast-paced insurance industry, she often witnesses life’s unpredictability in moments of separation and loss, and has a profound sense of life’s fragility. However, her time at RMHC HK has shown her a different perspective. She noticed how the children, their parents, and the staff at the House always radiate positivity and resilience. Even amidst the busyness of caregiving, carers still manage to show tenderness to their children. This warmth and strength deeply moved Anne. Over time, she learned to better manage her emotions and found herself becoming more at peace in her daily life.
Anne also discovered a valuable lesson from the children. While she initially liked organizing toys into neat categories, she realized that children prefer mixing everything together and simply enjoying the moment. This taught her that not everything in life or work has to go according to her plans. Sometimes, it’s better to give others space and maintain a harmonious atmosphere.
Let Small Acts of Kindness Shine Bright
Anne greatly appreciates the thoughtful design of the volunteer programs at RMHC HK.Everything is arranged with careful attention to detail. She has also been inspired by the teamwork she observes at the House. For example, she once saw a hotel’s volunteer team preparing a Christmas feast for the families. Their professionalism and dedication left a lasting impression on her. Looking ahead, Anne hopes to connect with more volunteer teams and learn from their experiences. She also wishes for more people to hear stories like hers and be inspired to join the RMHC HK family, contributing in any way they can to support children and their families.
From Home, and Back Again
In the long battle against illness, “home” is always the warmest haven. As they return home, each family shares the heartfelt stories and touching moments from their stay at the House.
Moses’ story: A Journey of Hope from the “Little Hut”
Do you remember Moses, the boy who dreamed of developing games while staying at the “Little Hut” in the Kwun Tong House? Time flies, and Moses is back at school! Although he is still undergoing treatment, he continues to develop his own gaming app. Moses’ mum has also returned to work, bringing the family’s life gradually back on track. Having gone through this illness, Moses has become noticeably more mature, thinking more of his parents and throwing fewer tantrums. To him, Mum will always be the best and most loving mother in the world. Speaking of life at the House, Moses fondly recalls the sunny “Little Hut” and the joyful moments of making food and crafts together.
Moses’ mum shared: “The House provided a wonderful environment for us to stay during treatment , giving me some much-needed breathing space. With the support of other families, I gained so much more positive mindset.”
Moses and his mum have now become our “Love Companions.” Even after leaving the House, they happily return to join our activities, sharing love and hope with families in need.
Charlotte’s story: The House as Their Second Home
Charlotte’s family, who often shared their daily moments with us during their stay, have now returned home! At just two years old, Charlotte already has plenty of “on-screen experience” — including being featured in the 2025 Winter Newsletter, a newspaper interview, and participated in the music video “沒有翅膀的天使”.
Charlotte’s parents expressed that after experiencing the services, they hope more families going through similar challenges can learn about Ronald McDonald House. Leaving the House was hard for them, as Charlotte had come to see it as her second home. She knew the environment and the people well, that even developed an outgoing personality, greeting everyone she met.
Corporate Support: McDonald’s Kidathon 2026
As RMHC Hong Kong celebrates its 30th anniversary, McDonald’s Hong Kong once again hosted the Kidathon to raise funds for families with sick children. This year’s event featured two superstar ambassadors Andy Lau and Keung To who performed a duet of the classic song “沒有翅膀的天使” and even remade its music video. On the event day, they also took the stage together to appeal for support for RMHC Hong Kong, making the occasion truly meaningful.
The Kidathon has always been more than just a fun event it represents a shared mission to give back to the community with heart. Over the past three decades, McDonald’s Hong Kong has raised over HKD 110 million for RMHC Hong Kong through restaurant fundraisers, the mobile app, concerts, and various other initiatives. These efforts have provided over 182,000 nights of accommodation and supported more than 6,100 children and their families.
We are deeply grateful McDonald’s Hong Kong for its unwavering support over the years. Their commitment keeps our two Houses running smoothly, ultimately easing the heavy financial and emotional burden on families going through difficult medical journeys.
Thank You for Your Support: Volunteer Appreciation Day 2025
Every single volunteer plays a crucial role in building our “Home Away from Home.” Over the past year, we have been deeply grateful for the dedication and contributions of volunteers, which have enabled RMHC Hong Kong to continue offering warmth and care to families with sick children, acting as a strong pillar of support for families navigating challenging medical treatments.
During our Volunteer Appreciation Day 2025, we had the honor of recognizing over 100 individual and group volunteers on stage. Thank you everyone for their enthusiastic participation, which made the ceremony a truly meaningful and memorable celebration. On that day, children from the House lovingly handmade gift packs for the volunteers as a token of gratitude for their unwavering love and companionship over the past year, creating a heartwarming and touching atmosphere.
We look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership with all our volunteers, and we sincerely invite more caring individuals to join the House family. Together, we will carry forward the spirit of love and bring strength and support to more families in need.
House Event: Ocean Park Adventure
To celebrate RMHC Hong Kong’s 30th anniversary, we hosted a special Ocean Park Adventure to kick off this important milestone.
On the day of the event, hundred participants gathered at the Ocean Park in a lively and joyful atmosphere. Attendees included children undergoing or recovering from treatment and their families, our Love Companions who have moved out of the House but closely connected to us, as well as a group of dedicated volunteers. Everyone came together amidst the cheerful ambiance of Ocean Park.
During the tough days of medical treatment, being able to temporarily set aside stress and enjoy the sunshine and laughter with loved ones is a precious gift for every family. RMHC HK has always believed that the power of family togetherness brings hope and courage – and this is the very heart of our “Home away from Home” philosophy that we have upheld for 30 years.
We look forward to organizing more activities that unite the community in the future, continuing to support more families with sick children in need, so that they may always feel love and care even in the most challenging times.
Joining Forces: International Family Day
RMHC Hong Kong responded to the call from RMHC APAC and participated for the first time in promotional activities for International Family Day (15 May). To raise public awareness of the importance of family togetherness — especially for families with critically sick children — we displayed posters along MTR routes and published and promoted posts on social media platforms. For us at RMHC, International Family Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is an opportunity to reaffirm our everyday mission to keep families together and accompany critically ill children throughout their treatment journey, 365 days a year.
