WELCOME LETTER PROJECT
Living in a new temporary environment can be worrisome for children and their families. Thus we invited Love Companion members who have experienced similar ordeals in the past to write “Welcome Letters” to new RMH families, sharing their own experiences. New RMH families will receive these letters upon checking in, serving as a support and comfort in their new environment.
EXCERPT FROM SELECTED WELCOME LETTERS
One night at around midnight, the tube inserted inside my son′s body ripped and blood started to leak out. I panicked and didn′t know what to do. All the other residents were already asleep, but I had to call for help and ended up knocking on Mr. and Mrs. Lau′s door. When they found out what had happened to my son, they quickly brought him to the nearby Prince of Wales Hospital, and at the same time, another resident Mr. Yeung helped me to call ambulance and informed me it was on its way. I was deeply touched at that moment by how everyone would come out to help and support when something happens to one person. I can still vividly recall the scene at that time in my head to this day.
– Ka Chun′s mother
During the period of my child′s treatment, Ronald McDonald House Charities not only provided us with a comfortable living accommodation, more importantly I was able to meet a group of companions who were going through similar ordeal as I was. We shared and supported each other so we didn′t have to feel alone on this road to recovery.
– Tin Hang′s mother
The big common kitchen is where everyone got to show off their cooking skills in a friendly environment. We often shared recipes, discussing what dishes are nutritional and best to increase our children′s appetite. I will never forget when we would all share the food we cooked just like one big family!
– Ho Hin′s mother
Since admitting to Ronald McDonald House, it brought a sense of calmness to us and soothed our emotions, and brought a positive change to my family′s relationship.
– Fung Yan′s mother
The volunteers helped us a lot as they would visit the House every weekend to play with the children, temporarily relieving the children′s stress and pain, and brought a smile to their faces.
– Suet Ying′s mother
Whenever I return from the hospital feeling a bit down and hopeless, other RMH residents would show their support and give me a pad on the back. As simple as telling me ″Everything will be better soon!″ or ″Here, have a bowl of soup″ is enough to calm me down.
– Han Yuk′s mother
My parents rarely cooked, but I remember they would still try to cook for me. I have forgotten what the food tasted like but their warmth and family love was what helped me through my recovery.
– Kun Hong
One unforgettable impression was seeing how all the children lived happily together. We all faced similar challenges in our roads to recovery and were able to meet many companions, supporting each other and get through our battles together.
– Ka Hing
My mom wasn′t a great cook, but thanks to other parents, she was able to learn and receive many cooking tips! Due to the side effect of my treatment, I often didn′t have the appetite to eat. My mom would find inspiration from the dishes cooked by other parents; they would share recipes and cooking for us became less of a challenge!
– Sarah
The bi-monthly birthday parties held at the House served as an opportunity for everyone to gather and reunite. The volunteers would host different activities, bringing us much joy and happiness.
– Brian
Whenever I visit RMH and attend House programs, I see many familiar faces, from the staff to previous House guests whom we used to all live together. It brings a sense of warmth and closeness, as they all watched me grow up.
– Ho Hin
