One fateful morning in October 2022, the world seemed to come crashing down on Joseph and Jasmine, when they discovered that their 7-year-old son, Thaddeus had fallen from his bed while sleeping and could not wake up. They rushed him to the nearest hospital, fearing a head trauma from the fall. After a CT scan, the doctors discovered that Thaddeus had suffered a stroke, a shock to the family who could not understand how a young boy could have a stroke. Thaddeus was immediately transferred by ambulance to National University Hospital (NUH), where he would begin his journey to recovery. But amidst the fear and uncertainty, the family knew they could count on the support of RMHC, that had helped them in the past and would be there for them once again.

This was Thaddeus’ third hospital stay. Joseph and Jasmine first stayed at the Ronald McDonald House back in 2015, when Thaddeus was in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

The Ronald McDonald House provided them with a comfortable and clean place to stay near Thaddeus, allowing them to fully focus on his recovery without worry. During their stay, Joseph and Jasmine had the opportunity to connect with other families who were going through similar experiences. They found comfort in sharing their stories and supporting each other through difficult times.

Thaddeus has since made a full recovery and returned home with his parents. But the family remains grateful for the “home away from home”, a place of comfort and respite that RMHC provided during such a challenging time in their lives. Jasmine even shares that “ever since I stayed at Ronald McDonald House, I have been donating to RMHC whenever I buy a McDonald’s meal and also encourage my friends to do so. I share photos of the facilities with my friends and how RMHC has helped the parents of critically ill children, which I have benefited so greatly from.”

Through Thaddeus’ journey, the family learned the importance of community and the power of support. They realized that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and help available.