“This year has been the hardest year of our lives,” said Eunice, Charlotte’s mother. “Charlotte came so close to death. Her recovery is the most precious Christmas gift we could ever ask for.”
Christmas is a time of celebration, where families reunite to share love and joy. Last Christmas, Charles and Eunice were still immersed in the happiness of welcoming their baby girl Charlotte. However, after the New Year’s Eve, their world turned upside down—at just 8 months old, Charlotte was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.
To support their daughter, Eunice resigned from her job. Charles had to face the challenge of balancing finances and family. “As the breadwinner, I had to keep working,” Charles shared. “But my heart was always with Charlotte. If her condition worsened, I might not even get the chance to say goodbye.” Charlotte, who was an outgoing little girl, became withdrawn and fearful. Every time she saw the medical staff in blue protective gowns—the “blue coats”—she would tremble in fear with cry. To her, the blue coats symbolized the possibility of forthcoming treatments and examinations , leaving her small body physically and emotionally exhausted.
From the early days of Charlotte’s diagnosis, the family moved into Ronald McDonald House (RMH). The family members took shifts to care for Charlotte around the clock at the hospital. The shuttle bus service provided by RMH became their most crucial support.“The free shuttle bus between the House and the hospital saved us so much time and money,” Charles said. “I could quickly return to the House for a short nap before heading back to work. That little bit of rest kept us going”
In September, Charlotte’s was finally able to live in RMH with her parents. The family felt the warmth of the community around them: families with sick children encouraged each other and shared their experiences; enthusiastic volunteers and House staff greeted Charlotte every day. Slowly, Charlotte overcame her fear of the “blue coats” and began interacting with others. Eunice had worried that Charlotte’s illness might affect her development, but now she can finally put her mind at ease. “This Christmas, we can finally bring her home,” said Eunice.
Still, there are many families at RMH who are flighting battles against illness. These families need “a home away from home”—a place where they can see light and hope during their darkest days.
Your donation can provide temporary accommodations and psychosocial services to families in need. This Christmas, we invite you to bring warmth and hope to these families.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas!
