Support Ronald McDonald House Wisconsin

Staying at Ronald McDonald house this week has really opened my eyes to their success. I want to thank them! Also, to make sure they continue to get donations and assistance for what they need. So, they can continue to their mission of helping families in this time of need like I am with Kayson while he is in the Hospital.

Here's the link to how you can donate Pop Tabs! So simple & easy and doesn't cost anything extra out of pocket (except for dropping them off). #kaysonjohn17 #rmhc #rmhcmilwaukee #childrenswi #childrenswisconsin #lifeatcw

The Importance of Support for
Parents in Hospitals

When a child is hospitalized, it is not only a challenging time for them but also for their parents. The role of a caregiver is demanding, both emotionally and physically, and having the right support can
make a significant difference.

The Comfort of Ronald McDonald House

After two restless nights on a firm pullout couch bed, seeking a referral to the Ronald McDonald
House was a much-needed relief. Here, parents like you can find a comfortable bed, ensuring you get the restful sleep necessary to support your child effectively. Moreover, the Ronald McDonald House provides meals, which can be a lifesaver when you're consumed with hospital visits and care duties.

A Warm Meal and Good Rest

Remembering the home-cooked dinners was a pleasant surprise. With meals provided daily, except
for Fridays, parents don’t have to stress about buying food or skipping meals. The simplicity of
having breakfast options like cereal and oatmeal, along with “lunch to go” on select days, shows the thoughtfulness of this support system. These small comforts can have a profound impact on a
parent's well-being.

The Journey and Exercise

The walk from the Ronald McDonald House to the hospital room, half a mile each way, provided a
welcome physical activity. These walks, totaling about two miles daily, o er a break from the
sedentary lifestyle of sitting by a hospital bed, helping to keep the body active and the mind fresh. This routine can be beneficial in maintaining physical health during such a stressful time.

Comparing Hospital Experiences

My experience at another hospital in GB when Kayson was little highlighted the disparities in
parental support. Ordering free meal tickets, available snacks, and a comfortable bed in the parent lounge can significantly ease a parent's burden. This kind of support is crucial in emergency situations when parents are focused on their child’s health and may neglect their own needs. If it wasn't for the Ronald McDonald house, there would be NO parental support for the “Basic Needs” decent beds for sleep and snacks. As a parent I wish Children's would offer better supports in those 2 areas so there wasn't a need to seek out Ronald McDonald house. Especially for when we normally have short visits like 1-2 nights, no parent should have to struggle during that time and have to seek a referral to the Ronald house. During these long visits more than a few days the Ronald house is just what us as parent need. I hope in the future Children's will consider incorporating these basic parent needs into their system.

The Need for Basic Parental Support

It's essential for hospitals to understand that meeting the basic needs of parents should be a
priority. A rested and well-fed parent is not only more capable of caring for their child but also better equipped to communicate effectively with medical staff. Ensuring that parents have access to meals and a comfortable sleeping arrangement should be standard practice, as it directly impacts the care and support they can provide to their hospitalized child.

In conclusion, initiatives like the Ronald McDonald House play a vital role in supporting families
during hospital stays. It’s important for all hospitals to recognize and implement similar support systems to ensure parents can focus on what truly matters: the well-being of their child.