Family Stories

Myranda, Christopher & Sophie Fleming

I have always heard about the Ronald McDonald House. But never in a million years would I ever dream about staying there until my baby girl was diagnosed with stage 3 Neuroblastoma at 7 months of age. When Sophie was 6 months old we had our first visit to the St. Jude’s Clinic in Johnson City where she had to undergo many tests. One month later we would begin our long journey of treatments to help Sophie regain her health.

If it wasn't for the Ronald McDonald House I just don't know what we would have done. The House has been our home since June and although we have not had to stay there over 7 days at a time the days we spend there “it is like we are Home!” Everyone is so friendly and the House is just wonderful! We never have to worry about getting a meal to eat during the day and we can always go over and get a snack or supper. Like we wouldn't have enough to worry about with Sophie we don’t have to worry about a place to sleep or food to eat. Although I have only stayed 1 night in the House because I stay with Sophie at the hospital; my Mother and Husband have stayed each and every night during Sophie’s treatments. It is comforting to know if I need my husband or my Mom they are just a phone call away, right across the parking lot and can be with me and Sophie in a few minutes. This would not be the case if they had to stay in a motel!

The Girls that run the House, Rowena, Leah and Pam are angels. They are always the same no matter when you see them; are always willing to help, and always have a wonderful smile on their faces. And it has never failed that they always ask about Sophie which to me shows they really care and that they love their job.

I hope you will never have to come here and stay but if for some reason you do you will be very well taken care of. You will have no worries in the House except taking care of your child. You will be at your "home-away-from-home."

Myranda, Christopher & Sophie Fleming
& Peggy Anderson, Grandmother