Dear Friends of San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House,
One hot day last summer, my ten-year-old boy Santiago shrieked with pain that didn’t let up. We rushed to the emergency room. His blood pressure dropped dangerously low and he was barely conscious. A tumor had burst on his liver—and we’d had no idea it was there. It was cancer.
I told myself I could bear anything, as long as Santiago would live.
He would need several rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery over many months. It was overwhelming. But there’s no place to show fear when you’re with your child in the hospital. If your child sees you afraid, he will be, too. And when you have others counting on you, you can’t let them down. That’s when the Ronald McDonald House made all the difference in keeping us going.
In those dark days, the Ronald McDonald House was a welcoming, stable place for us to take care of our basic needs while staying as near as possible to Santiago. There was room for our older son, Andrés, too. Our boys are very close—we couldn’t imagine them being apart. Thanks to the Ronald McDonald House, we were together.
When you’re shaking from worry and exhaustion, the comfort and warmth of the Ronald McDonald House does wonders for your spirits. You find a moment of peace and perspective to go back and encourage your child.
Please help families stay together and strong by giving to San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House today.
I know from experience, your donation will be put to good use for families like mine, who need a place to lay their head before returning to their child’s side. That vital, loving bond is so important to a child’s healing, and to the whole family. That’s what you’ll make possible through your gift.
We had our ups and downs—the lowest point was when Santiago’s kidneys shut down in a rare reaction to painkillers. When he turned the corner, I nearly collapsed in relief. Today, Santiago is cancer free and his liver is growing back! He’s out playing soccer and Pokémon with his brother once more.
The Ronald McDonald House was an incredible gift for us—so simple, practical, and full of compassion. How amazing to think that community contributions are what keep the House open!
Yes, there are many places to give. But with the Ronald McDonald House, you will make a direct, life-changing impact on families. Your gift can keep a family together this holiday season. They’ll be holding hands in the hospital, thanks to you.
Please be that connection and give as generously as you can to the San Diego Ronald McDonald House today.
With much appreciation,
Sophia Zimmer
