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.
Ching Yan’s Story: Love Never Stops – A Journey of Healing
Six-year-old Ching Yan recently completed a courageous and challenging medical journey. It all began when her family noticed an unusual mass on her neck and promptly sought medical advice from a private doctor. She was swiftly referred to a public hospital for further assessment and, soon after, transferred to the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital for specialised care. The tumor was pressing against her trachea, causing her breathing difficulties alongside recurrent coughing, colds, and fever.
After thorough examinations, Ching Yan was diagnosed with stage IV lymphoma involving her bone marrow. She was admitted to the intensive care unit, where the medical team initially considered surgery and prepared her family for the most daunting possibilities. Thankfully, after careful deliberation, the team opted for a two-year chemotherapy regimen instead. Following six months of intensive treatment, Ching Yan’s condition went into remission and gradually stabilized.
Throughout her treatment, frequent hospital visits were a necessity. Acting on a recommendation from a medical social worker, her mother chose to stay at the Ronald McDonald House. One unforgettable moment occurred when Ching Yan suffered uncontrollable nosebleeds due to low platelet levels, requiring an emergency hospital visit at 5 a.m.—a terrifying experience that remains deeply etched in her mother’s memory.
Naturally energetic and lively, Ching Yan found it difficult to stay confined at home. At the Ronald McDonald House, volunteer companions and engaging activities helped her rediscover the joy of childhood and the warmth of friendship. Her mother observed that the House provided not only a supportive community for parents to share their experiences but also gave them much-needed respite through the dedicated help of volunteers.
The age gap had previously limited the interaction between Ching Yan and her older sister. However, their stay at the House changed this dynamic. The sisters participated in activities together, forging a stronger bond. The older sister became more involved in caring for Ching Yan, joining her in daily routines and playtime. This shared journey nurtured a closer relationship and brought a renewed warmth to their family, offering both comfort and strength during Ching Yan’s recovery.
Today, Ching Yan continues her chemotherapy treatment, with her family steadfastly supporting every step of her healing process. Her mother expresses profound gratitude to the Ronald McDonald House and all its volunteers for enveloping them in love and hope during their most challenging moments.
Lok Tung’s Story: Guardians of Love and Hope
The news of young Lok Tung’s leukemia diagnosis initially plunged her entire family into shock and helplessness. Living in a large household, maintaining optimal hygiene proved challenging, raising concerns about how it might affect Lok Tung’s recovery. Fortunately, a medical social worker referred them to RMHC Hong Kong, where impeccable hygiene standards and comprehensive facilities provided a safe and nurturing environment. This allowed Lok Tung’s parents to care for her with greater peace of mind, significantly easing their daily burdens.
At first, the family kept to themselves, hesitant to engage with other families. But as time went on, the mothers began to share their experiences, offering support during lonely and difficult moments. Gradually, a warm and mutually supportive community blossomed. Through this connection, Lok Tung’s mother discovered the profound comfort of having “companions on the same journey” during life’s toughest trials.
Throughout treatment, the side effects of medication made Lok Tung withdraw and reluctant to interact. Yet, within the welcoming atmosphere of the House, her emotions slowly steadied. She began to initiate play and run freely, and her vibrant personality shone through once again. The unwavering support and encouragement from the House became the family’s strongest pillar of strength.
Today, Lok Tung’s condition has stabilized, requiring only oral medication. To care for her older sister, the family arranges for her to stay at the House during holidays, creating precious moments of family bonding and deepening their connections and support.
Lok Tung’s mother expresses heartfelt gratitude to RMHC Hong Kong—this love and care, transcending hardship, empowered their family to move forward with courage on the path to recovery and embrace a future filled with hope.
