Why We Support the Ronald McDonald House

For us, the answer is Emily and Nicholas. They represent two separate weeks, nearly a decade apart, when one of our children was unexpectedly hospitalized. We did not know how long we would be there. We did not know the outcome. All we knew was fear and the constant hum of machines measuring pain and breath.

In the middle of those long days someone we had never met stepped close and asked if we needed a place to stay, a warm meal, or simply a quiet space to think. That person was connected to the Ronald McDonald House Family Room at Greenville Memorial. Their kindness gave us something we did not have at the time. It gave us room to breathe.

Over the years we learned we were not alone. Six friends and several family members have stayed at Ronald McDonald Houses in three different states. Every time it allowed families to stay close to the child who needed them most.

We live near an incredible Children’s Hospital, but many families do not. They face mounting medical bills while trying to figure out food, transportation, and lodging. Many must make difficult decisions no parent should have to make. We believe children heal faster when their family is present, not stressed about cost or distance. Ronald McDonald House makes that possible by giving families the simple comfort of normalcy during the hardest days of their lives.

We were blessed to bring both of our children home after their hospital stays, although Emily passed away a few months later. The compassion we received at the Family Room never left us. Over time our family has cooked meals, volunteered at events, and supported the House however we could. In 2021 I joined the Board of Directors, which gave me a deeper understanding of the heart behind every decision.

We can measure meals, overnight stays, and even toothbrushes handed to parents who rushed to the hospital without time to pack. What we cannot measure are the memories families create because they have a place to be together. We cannot measure the relief that comes from clean laundry or the emotional weight lifted when someone cares for the small things. We cannot measure how these strong children and families go on to do incredible things. Many become lifelong volunteers. Many continue to face medical challenges but still achieve milestones that inspire us every day. It is a privilege to witness their courage.

I was once the parent sitting in a hospital room trying to understand every word the doctors said. Today I am a volunteer and board member standing beside families who are living that same fear. The Ronald McDonald House has become part of our family and we are proud to support the mission.

Your generosity gives comfort, stability, and hope to parents who need it most. Please donate today and help another family stay close during the fight of their lives.

Warmly,
Jodi Cooper
Board Member
Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas

P.S. Give now and help a family stay close during the hardest days of their lives.