Dinosaur Hugs Bring Warmth
To spread social care and creative warmth, RMHC Hong Kong collaborated with SFAA on November 8, 2025, to organize the “Project Hug Hug” charity event. Through fashion design and hands-on creative experiences, the initiative brought joy and support to children undergoing treatment and their families.
During the event, SFAA presented a special gift to the children – 100 sets of dinosaur-patterned pajamas meticulously designed by Hong Kong designer Jesse Lee. These pajamas not only feature playful designs but also incorporate thoughtful details: specially added inner pockets cater to children with medical stomas due to treatment needs, reflecting the designer’s careful consideration of practical requirements. Designer Jesse Lee expressed, “I hope this gift can serve as a warm hug, accompanying children through their recovery journey.”
Beyond the heartwarming donation ceremony, children participated in sewing workshops alongside the SFAA team and students from Youth College (International) DVB program. In a relaxed and joyful atmosphere, they learned basic sewing techniques and created their own unique dinosaur crafts, spending an afternoon filled with laughter and a sense of accomplishment.
RMHC Hong Kong extends heartfelt gratitude to SFAA for their generous support, the designer’s thoughtful creations, and all volunteers’ selfless contributions, enabling families with sick children to feel the community’s warmth and companionship during challenging times. This event represents not only material support but also an experience that spreads joy and gathers goodwill.
We look forward to continuing collaborations with various sectors in the future, bringing more warmth and hope to families in need.
2025 Gala Dinner Success
The RMHC Hong Kong Gala Dinner 2025, themed “A Wish for Peace,” was successfully held. Legendary singer Sam Hui made a surprise appearance, helping to raise over HK$4.4 million to support families with sick children.
Content (494 words):
[October 20, 2025, Hong Kong] Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong (RMHC Hong Kong) successfully held its annual Gala Dinner on October 19 at the Kerry Hotel Hong Kong. This year’s event, themed “A Wish for Peace,” symbolized sending wishes of peace and resilience to families with critically ill children. The dinner brought together over 370 benevolent supporters, raising over HK$4.4 million. The proceeds will support the daily operations of the Ronald McDonald House, continuing its mission to provide “family-centered care” and help families navigate their most challenging times.
In her address, Ms. Grace Fung Oei Wan Chi, Member of the RMHC Global Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the RMHC Hong Kong Board of Directors, stated, “We offer more than just a bed; we provide a warm space where families can stay close while their child battles illness.” She also reflected on RMHC Hong Kong’s 29 years of local service, noting that the Kwun Tong House has provided over 24,000 nights of accommodation to hundreds of families, and announced that the organization will celebrate its significant 30th anniversary milestone next year.
A heartfelt highlight of the evening was the “Sponsor-a-Family” session, which featured the Lam family, former residents of the House. The parents shared their daughter’s brave journey against leukemia and the invaluable support—from practical help to emotional understanding—they received from other families at the House. Their two young daughters joyfully added that their favorite part was the playroom. Their genuine story allowed guests to deeply feel the warm, supportive power of the House as a “home away from home.”
The dinner reached a thrilling climax with a surprise appearance by Hong Kong music legend Mr. Sam Hui. Moved by the donors’ enthusiasm, he generously performed, with this segment alone raising over HK$800,000. The event also featured a live auction hosted by a Christie’s expert, an online silent auction, and a lucky draw. The collective generosity on display demonstrated resolute support for families with sick children. The Gala concluded on a note of joy and profound, with all funds raised to be transformed into tangible support, continuing to bring hope to families in need.
Love Companion : Healing Hearts Through Handmade Creations
“Always believe that there are many people who will help you.”
Ho Wa’s mother, Catherine, a passionate crafter and a firm believer in the healing power of handmade crafts. As a member of “Love Companion Program”, Catherine visits Kwun Tong House every month to participate in the breakfast gathering, where she leads workshops for ill children and their families. From preserved flower decorations to beaded bracelets, phone holders, and resin coasters with dried flowers, her creative workshops add vibrant colors and joy to the lives of families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong (RMHC HK).
A Warm Encounter at the “Home Away from Home”
Ho Wa and Catherine’s connection with Hong Kong Ronald McDonald House began in 2018. At that time, Hugo was experiencing bone pain and fever. After seeking medical attention at the hospital, he was diagnosed with leukemia. The chemotherapy treatments and medications took a toll on his emotions, often leading to angry outbursts. “He would cry and yell in the hospital, saying, ‘Who brought me here?’” Catherine recalls.
Living in Fanling, the family faced daily commutes to Prince of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin for treatments. Upon referral by a medical social worker, they decided to stay at Sha Tin House, which was just a 10-minute drive from the hospital—offering much-needed convenience.
Beyond proximity, the open-plan structure of the Sha Tin House fostered meaningful connections among families. Children freely played on the wooden staircases while parents relaxed in the communal areas, sharing stories and supporting one another. “There were large tables on the second floor that we often pushed together to play board games. It was such a cheerful atmosphere!” Catherine says with a smile. She fondly describes Ronald McDonald House as a “pit stop for recharging,” providing not only a comfortable environment but also an array of activities for children to unwind and for families to connect and support each other.
A Relay of Love
After Ho Wa’s recovery, the family continued their bond with RMHC HK through the Love Companion Program.
Ho Wa, who took golf lessons in school, became a volunteer at RMHC HK’s annual Charity Golf Tournament, serving as the ceremonial opening player for several years. He also contributed by selling charity raffle tickets to help raise funds for the House.
Catherine, on the other hand, discovered her calling during one of the breakfast sessions. Learning that children at the House longed for sushi, Catherine—being a former caregiver herself—understood the dietary restrictions of young patients, such as avoiding raw food and carefully controlling seasonings. She eagerly accepted the challenge to teach parents how to prepare sushi suitable for their children. Since then, Catherine has become a regular instructor, hosting craft workshops and connecting with families through hands-on activities.
With her background as an art teacher, Catherine brings unique and engaging ideas to each workshop. She collaborates with staff to design lesson plans and source materials, often personally delivering supplies to the House. “The projects must be challenging yet produce refined results, suitable for participants of all ages,” she says. Her workshops have become a monthly highlight for children and a rare moment of relaxation for parents.
As someone who has walked this path, Catherine empathizes with the struggles of parents coming to terms with their child’s illness. She hopes that crafting can not only pass the time but also provide a therapeutic outlet to ease their burdens and slowly bring peace to their hearts.
Creativity: The Best Medicine for the Soul
Catherine’s experience as a Love Companion has inspired her to embrace life and her love for crafting even more. She vividly recalls a workshop where families made heat-shrink keychains by drawing designs on shrinkable plastic, which were then heated to create small, vibrant charms. “I was amazed at how colorful and imaginative the children’s inner worlds were,” she says. The beautifully crafted keychains were not only a source of pride but also a meaningful gift for the children themselves. “Life should always have a sense of ritual” Catherine firmly believes.
Spreading Warmth to More Families
To families currently battling illness, Catherine shares this piece of encouragement: “Always believe that there are many people who will help you.” She continues to brainstorm new crafting ideas and is determined to spread this joy to more families at RMHC HK. Looking ahead, Catherine hopes to explore even more forms of volunteer work, transforming the kindness she once received into meaningful actions that bring love and light to others.
From Home to Home Again
In the long battle against illness, “home” is always the warmest haven. As they return home, each family shares their heartfelt stories and touching moments during their stay.
1. Emma’s Story: The first residents
In late September 2023, 9-year-old Emma was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, a life-altering challenge for her and her family. Living in Tuen Mun, the long and exhausting trips to the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital quickly took a toll on the family, both physically and emotionally. In November 2023, the Kwun Tong House opened its doors, and shortly after, Emma’s family became one of its first residents, starting a close connection with the House that lasted a year and eight months.
When Emma first arrived, the House was still in its early stages of development. Over time, it grew into a well-organized and welcoming place. The House became more than just a temporary home—it provided a refuge for children and their families, offering various parent-child activities that helped them relax and recharge amidst the stress. Emma particularly enjoyed practicing Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese form of exercise. It not only helped her stretch and move her body but also brought moments of peace and joy to her treatment journey.
“The staff are truly warm and friendly; I see them more often than my own family.” Emma’s mother said with a smile. The staff not only offered warm words of encouragement, but also connected Emma and her family with other non-profits, helping them meet fellow parents and children on similar journeys. Ronald McDonald House became more than a place to stay; it grew into a supportive community filled with love and compassion, offering warmth and hope to every family navigating the challenges of treatment.
After enduring a long period of treatment, Emma was finally able to return home, begin a new chapter in life, and go back to school to make new friends. As for the future, Emma’s father expressed his greatest wish: for his daughter to stay healthy and happy. “Ronald McDonald House has helped us so much. The staff made us feel less alone, and even a simple word meant so much—it brought a little sweetness to the bitterness we were going through,” her mother said gratefully. Her father added, “the House gave us support, care, happiness, and hope during the most difficult times.”
Ronald McDonald House was not just a “home away from home” during Emma’s fight against illness—it was a place where she and her family rediscovered strength, hope, and resilience.
2. Matthew’s Story: Smiling Through Leukemia
When Matthew returned to Hong Kong from a trip to mainland China and suddenly experienced severe leg pain, his family initially thought it was due to a previous fall. However, his condition rapidly worsened—he could no longer stand, cried incessantly, and developed a persistent fever. Although X-rays showed no abnormalities, his fever spiked again despite medication, prompting the family to rush him back to the hospital. The next day, the diagnosis of leukemia struck like a bolt from the blue, leaving the entire family in disbelief.
Faced with the devastating news, Matthew’s mother was heartbroken. Yet, encouraged by the doctor, she wiped away her tears and resolved to confront the uncertain journey ahead. What moved her most was that young Matthew, though unable to fully comprehend his illness, could always sense his mother’s anxiety. Whenever he noticed her unease, he would try to cheer her up, becoming her greatest source of comfort.
Due to Matthew’s weakened immune system during treatment, maintaining a hygienic environment was critical. Additionally, he required freshly prepared meals within two hours. Upon referral by a medical social worker, the family moved into Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Hong Kong. Not only did it provide a clean environment meeting medical standards, but its proximity to the hospital also allowed Matthew’s mother to prepare suitable meals for him in a timely manner.
During their stay, Matthew engaged in activities like piano, drumming, and tutoring, which helped distract him from the stresses of treatment. Meanwhile, his mother found invaluable support in the community of parents caring for sick children. They shared experiences—from managing drug sensitivities to coping with side effects—equipping one another to face challenges ahead, ensuring no one felt alone on this difficult journey.
Today, Matthew has successfully completed his treatment. This “home away from home” not only provided a safe and supportive environment but also filled the emotional void during their most challenging times, enabling the family to hold each other’s hands and stride confidently toward a brighter tomorrow.
3. Chin’s Story: A Life Warrior Across Two Generations
When 7-year-old Chin told his teacher about his throat discomfort, his mother never imagined it would mark the beginning of another battle against cancer. Having lost his father to cancer, the family was particularly sensitive and fearful of the word “cancer.” After a private doctor discovered a foreign object in Chin’s tonsils and recommended immediate hospitalization, the eventual diagnosis of lymphoma brought his mother to tears in an instant.
“I was truly terrified at the time, but the doctor told us that the cure rate for childhood lymphoma is very high, and those words became our greatest hope in the darkness,” Chin’s mother recalled, tears still glistening in her eyes. Energetic and active by nature, Chin required general anesthesia to complete detailed examinations, and during the wait for the anesthetist, the entire family’s hearts remained suspended in uncertainty.
Fortunately, examination results showed that the tumor had not spread, allowing the medical team to develop a precise treatment plan. After six rounds of chemotherapy and six months of active treatment, Chin’s condition gradually stabilized, and he now only requires ongoing observation for the next seven years.
During treatment, Chin and his family stayed at Ronald McDonald House (Kwun Tong House). His mother shared emotionally, “Chin loves it here—the environment is so comfortable, and there are always people around to play with him. Seeing him smile again has been my greatest comfort during this challenging treatment journey.”
For his mother, the House’s shuttle bus service was like a timely rain. “When my child suddenly feels unwell, being able to get to and from the hospital immediately without enduring long waits—this peace of mind is irreplaceable.” Even more touching was how the House naturally formed a warm and supportive “small community,” where mothers encouraged one another, shared caregiving experiences, and cheered each other on.
Step by step, emerging from the shadow of his father’s passing, Chin has used his bravery and recovery journey to bring a hopeful new dawn to his family.
4. Yuet ’s Story: Finding Starlight
Yuet’s story began when she was just one month old, diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. At age five, the cancer relapsed, and she became the fifth child in Hong Kong to undergo advanced CAR-T cell therapy. The treatment required repeated injections, which tormented Yuet, who had feared needles since she was little.
To make hospital visits easier and to give her a temporary respite from the pain of treatment, her mother brought her to stay at Ronald McDonald House (Kwun Tong House). More than just a conveniently located place, it became their warmest shelter for the heart amidst the storm.
What the Yuet family treasured most was the warm, supportive community the House fostered. There, a natural network of support formed among families—a knowing glance, a helping hand, a simple “How are you?” This tangible mutual support made the long caregiving journey feel less lonely and became their most solid emotional anchor.
As a parent who has weathered her child’s critical illness twice, Yuet’s mother found strength in being a “companion on the same journey.” She has traveled the path from asking in despair, “Why my child?” to now being able to kindle hope for new parents. “I asked that countless times five years ago. But look, medicine has advanced, and we have new treatment options too.” This understanding, forged through shared adversity, has transformed the House into a harbor where hearts can heal and courage can be replenished together.
The various activities at the House also provided Yuet with precious moments of lightness. From moving in in 2024 to moving out in the autumn, RMHC HK was not just a shelter but a “refueling station” for the whole family, offering all-around care and accompanying them steadfastly on their road to recovery.
Family Story: Big Love in a Small Community
“Although it has been a difficult journey, staying optimistic and positive is crucial for the treatment. The small community at Ronald McDonald House has given us so much emotional support and strength.” — Charlotte’s Mother, Eunice
The Joy of Becoming Parents
Charles and Eunice had always loved children and dreamed of starting a family from the moment they got married. When their daughter, Charlotte, came into this world, they were filled with gratitude and happiness.
Even as a baby, Charlotte had already gone on several short trips with her parents, creating beautiful memories. Last April, the family had planned a big trip to Japan with Charlotte’s grandparents—a vacation they had been looking forward to for months.
A Reality Too Painful to Accept
In January, Charlotte developed a fever and was taken to the hospital. Blood tests revealed abnormalities, and the doctor gently explained that Charlotte most likely had acute leukemia. Charles and Eunice were devastated. They couldn’t believe what they were hearing. It felt like their world had collapsed. They desperately asked the doctor if there could have been a mistake, clinging to the hope that it was a misdiagnosis. Before they could process the cruel reality, Charlotte had to be transferred to the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital to undergo bone marrow examination and surgery to insert a central venous catheter for chemotherapy.
A Father’s Struggle
Eunice resigned from her job to care for Charlotte full-time, while Charles took on the responsibility of financially supporting the family. Yet, his heart was constantly with his daughter.“As the sole breadwinner, I knew I had to keep working, but I couldn’t stop worrying about Charlotte. I was terrified that if her condition worsened, I might not even get the chance to see her one last time,” Charles recalled. He went on to share his struggles: “The extra medical bills for Charlotte’s treatment, our property becoming a negative asset, and all the other living expenses… none of that mattered to me anymore. I would give up everything and live on plain meals every day, if it meant Charlotte could recover.” As he spoke, tears welled up in Charles’ eyes.
Fear of the “Blue Coats”
Charlotte was once a lively and outgoing little girl, but her experience during the early stage of hospitalization left her fearful of strangers. Whenever she saw medical staff in blue protective gowns—the “blue coats”—she would start trembling in fear. To her, the sight of the blue coats meant the possibility of forthcoming treatments or examinations that she perceived as dauting and undesirable, bringing both physical and emotional discomfort. Charles and Eunice could only watch helplessly as their daughter endured the treatments. Still, they held back their own tears in front of her. “We wanted her to feel safe and protected,” Eunice shared. “We didn’t want her to see our sadness or fear.”
The Strongest Support
“When one family member falls ill, it’s like the whole family is at war,” Charles said firmly. “We had to stay strong and not lose morale.”The family developed a detailed caregiving plan. Charles, Eunice, Charlotte’s grandmother, and their domestic helper took turns caring for Charlotte 24 hours a day, ensuring she was never alone. One of the biggest sources of support for them was the free shuttle bus service provided by Ronald McDonald House.“The shuttle bus between the House and the hospital saved us so much time and money,” Charles said. “After spending time with Charlotte at the hospital, I could quickly return to the House for a short nap before heading back to work. Without that little bit of rest, I don’t think we could have made it through those tough days.”
The Warmest Community
In September, Charlotte’s condition stabilized after months of intensive treatment, and she was finally able to move into Ronald McDonald House with her parents. For the first time in a long while, the family experienced the warmth of a caring community. At the House, they met other families who were facing similar challenges. They encouraged each other, shared their stories, and found strength in knowing they weren’t alone.
Volunteers and House staff greeted Charlotte warmly every day, slowly helping her overcome her fear of the “blue coats.” Gradually, Charlotte began smiling again, responding to greetings, and even engaging with others.“Although it’s been so hard, staying optimistic and positive is so important for the treatment,” Eunice shared. “The small community at Ronald McDonald House gave us so much emotional support and strength to keep going.” Eunice had initially worried that Charlotte’s illness would affect her development. But to her surprise, Charlotte learned to walk at the House and even began to regain her cheerful personality. She blossomed from the quiet, withdrawn girl in the hospital into the happy, lively child she was before. Seeing Charlotte smile again lifted such a huge weight off Eunice’s shoulders. Eunice is confident now that Charlotte will leave this ‘small community’ and thrive in the bigger world ahead.
The Most Precious Christmas Gift
“This year has been the hardest year of our lives,” Eunice said. “Charlotte came so close to death. But we’ve finally won this battle. Her recovery is the most precious Christmas gift we could ever ask for.” As Christmas approaches, Charles and Eunice’s holiday wish has already come true—Charlotte has completed her treatment and been discharged from the hospital. The family will celebrate Christmas together, reunited and full of hope. Looking ahead, they hope to finally fulfill their postponed dream of traveling abroad. They plan to take Charlotte and her grandparents to see the snow—a special family trip to celebrate their victory over the toughest battle of their lives.
