Ronald McDonald House

My family and I came to Rochester; Minnesota to have my youngest daughter Katy seen. We have been here before; coming to the Mayo Clinic is nothing new. One of the things that make this trip possible is the Ronald McDonald House. They advertise it as the “House that love built,” and that is not just a slogan. The staff at the house do everything they can to remove as many of the stresses of life they can. Even as great as they are, this house would be nothing without the support of the community. The city of Rochester strongly supports this house. As a parent, saying thank you doesn’t seem to be enough.

One of the best things about this place is perspective. The other residents are here with their kids, just like us, but the stories are different. One of the families we met is grappling with their daughter’s future. She has been diagnosed with a tumor and only have two years to live. The challenges that family faced to get here are amazing although the future looks bleak. Another family shared their joys with us as they watched the very premature baby grow and thrive. A few ounces today and a few tomorrow equals up to a pound which is one closer to getting to go home.

There are people here from all over the world. They are just parents like us and just want the best for our children. We have so much in common, although we live worlds a part. You have to wonder why we can’t get along in the real world.