This week our reflection is from Joanne Fitton talking about what has happened this summer.
“Our Ronald House – More than just a bed” – Manchester
On the 9th of July, 115 days ago Annabelle and I, left Lytham St Annes and arrived in Manchester Children’s Hospital A&E after local medical services couldn’t help her. It was a beacon of light for us in a dark time. Every professional we met was so amazing with Annabelle. They quickly got her on monitors and started her treatment. We soon realised how seriously poorly Annabelle was. Being 2hrs away from home, with only 1 space by Annabelle’s bed was tricky and Simon (Annabelle’s dad) came for day visit and we did book a b&b. Then the ward clerk talked to us about a Ronald McDonald House room. We filled our form in and the next day one became available. I remember walking in and just being overwhelmed with emotions – our room, dayroom social space, own floor kitchen area- own food, fridge and freezer space and a beautiful garden to relax in. Having Ronald House for our family has meant –
*A space for our family to stay together
*Enabled Annabelle twin Layla to be around in the holidays and make memories.
*Social space to meet other families
*A place for us to eat together
Most importantly Annabelle recovery was about food. Ronald House has been where Annabelle alongside her NG feeds, has got back to 3 meals a day with the Day Pass Scheme. She has a sensory diet and doesn’t eat hospital or cafe food. She has been able to shop for it, cook for it in our kitchen space and eat with us, away from the ward.
Every Wednesday in summer and holidays, they also put on parties from the amazing volunteers and staff. Have weekly brew and chat evenings for parents.
They have printed documents for us. Nothing is too much trouble.
It costs £35 a night to provide a room for families at Ronald House and we want to give something back to the “home”, love and support they have given to Annabelle and our family.
Fairhaven Methodist is a big part of our support network too and have been so grateful for all the messages, cards and prayers. So fundraising at Fairhaven, with a coffee morning for Ronald House was something my mum Barbara was passionate about from the summer. It was a way to say thank you to Ronald House but also our Fairhaven support, family and friends all at the same time.
It is on Saturday 2nd November 10am to 11.30am at Fairhaven Methodist Church.
Recent Comments