Leah and Claire
Leah and Claire are best friends. They share a love for twirling, butterflies, and their families. For Leah’s recent birthday, they wore matching butterfly dresses.
If you met them now, you’d never guess that just a few months ago, they were strangers. They lived in different parts of the United States, with no reason for their lives to cross. Then, due to extremely challenging circumstances, they met at a place where they could laugh and have fun, share secrets and toys, and find joy in scary situations. A place where they could forge a forever friendship.
That is what Ronald McDonald House provides to families with children being treated for devastating illnesses – a community of emotional support and compassionate care.
“It's most definitely a blessing to be able to connect with families who truly understand the heartache of our journey's,” Leah’s mom, Tonya, shared. [Claire’s mom] Anna and I were going through similar yet different processes. Both our girls had cancer and needed a bone marrow transplant. But the girls diagnoses were different. Even though they were, our doubts, fears and anxiety were the same. We were able to share that with one another, we were able to fully understand the extent of our hurt, and it's what we needed.
While their treatments lead both their families to Cincinnati, Ronald McDonald House led Leah and Claire to the friendship they both needed. They have spent holidays, birthdays and just about every day possible together since they met. Between treatments at the hospital, they find many things to do at the local Ronald McDonald House together that helps take their minds off their illness. Whether they are playing games in the playroom, exploring the outdoor space, or decorating cookies in the kitchen, Leah and Claire are typical four-year-olds together, despite their treatment schedules and diagnoses.
And Ronald McDonald House knows that is essential to helping them – and their families – cope.
More from Ronald McDonald House, our families and supporters
A Blueprint for Healing
An architect who helped build a Ronald McDonald House later found herself seeking its comfort when her son got sick.
Learning Through It All
Our education programs empower children to keep learning, dreaming, and thriving, even through life’s toughest challenges.
Meals That Matter
At Ronald McDonald House, we know a meal can do more than nourish. It can heal, connect, and bring families together when they need it most.
A Place to Be Heard
For mom Sammi Cuevas and her family, Ronald McDonald House was more than a place to stay — it was a community of comfort and support that cared for her family when they needed it most.
Beacon Shines Light On Comfort and Hope
Some Ronald McDonald House programs include a special guiding light for families.
House programs spark a global movement
The Marinos dreamed of a space in Chicago where parents could stay knowing their child was nearby.
Family Rooms Bring Peace of Mind
Families have a peaceful place to decompress right in the hospital.
Read more family stories
Stories, News & Highlights From Our Ronald McDonald House Community
Sign up for emails from Ronald McDonald House
Signup
Follow us on social
