Finding Home Away From Home In Lasting Community

When Rori Skibbee was born, doctors did not know if she would ever be able to walk. Born with Clubfoot, or alipes equinovarus, Rori’s feet were turned out of position at birth. Thankfully, Rori and her mom, Krista Tores, lived near Dr. Lawing at Shriners Children’s in Tampa where specialists began correcting her feet early on. Though the treatments helped, Rori still faced challenges walking correctly, often walking on top of her toes. 

But even from the beginning, Rori approached every challenge the same way she lives life now: with curiosity, confidence and a positive outlook on the future. 

When Shriners Children’s in Tampa closed and Dr. Lawing relocated to Shriners Children’s in Greenville, Krista worried about what the long trips and overnight stays would mean.

“She wants to help other kids,” Rori said happily when discussing Dr. Lawing’s relocation. 

Though this location was the closest to the two, it was still a journey that required overnight stays. Krista had the Ronald McDonald House Charities recommended to her while in Florida, though she had always assumed that the House was only for children with cancer. 

She quickly learned it was a place for any family traveling for specialized medical care. And unexpectedly, a place where she and Rori would thrive in the community it provided

Now eight-years-old, Rori and Krista have stayed at the House twice and return soon for a third visit. Though their first visit lasted only two nights, most recently, the pair stayed a week and a half. While in Greenville, Rori has made significant progress, engaging in daily physical therapy and finally walking without her casts.

Still, the most exciting parts of Rori’s visits aren’t just the milestones she has reached, but those who are around her when she makes them.

“Her favorite thing is coming here because she gets to meet new people and make friends,” Krista shared. 

“A lot of friends,” Rori quickly adds. “And I like to play with friends.”

During one stay, Rori made friends with a young boy staying in the House and bonded with him over their love for Legos. The families still stay in touch and the boy even surprised Rori by sending a care package with Legos. 

“My favorite part is also making friends and playing,” Rori shared. “I like to swing and play.”

Sometimes, the excitement starts before they even arrive, as Rory anticipates the exciting surprises that await her at the House. 

“Before we come, she says, ‘I wonder what toy I’ll get on my bed this time,’” Krista laughed.

 

So far, Rori has received a book and two blankets, including a Hello Kitty blanket that joined her on her road trip back to the House for their most recent visit. 

But, Rori is not the only one who found community at the House. While Rori eagerly jumps into new experiences, her confidence has also helped Krista feel more at ease. A self-proclaimed introvert, Krista admitted the shared kitchen and common spaces initially felt intimidating compared to the privacy of a hotel. But as Rori introduced herself to everyone in the House, Krista became able to connect with other families staying at the House as well. 

“I couldn’t believe how the parents, families, everyone just comes in and starts connecting with each other,” Krista shared. 

During their first stay, Krista connected with Rhyondia and her daughter Charleigh, a pair that made a remarkable impact on Krista through shared stories and education. Through the House, Krista connected with families who offered encouragement and advice, connecting with families who understand their journey. Krista even connected with a family whose child has the same condition as Rori and recommended the wheelchair that Rori went on to use. 

“It’s really a community here, and it’s amazing,” she continued. “You feel so much support.”

And this is not a typical feeling for Krista, “It’s hard to get out there and, and feel included,” she shared. However, she was able to find the comfort and community she needed here. 

For Rori, none of it ever seems daunting. Whether she’s meeting new friends, trying something unfamiliar or tackling more therapy, she approaches each experience with enthusiasm. 

And as they prepare for another trip to Greenville, Rori knows exactly what she’s looking forward to: meeting new friends, guessing her next toy and healing with the comfort and care at the House.