It's a valuable resource in our community and without it, families dealing with sick children would be in a real bind. The Ronald McDonald House in Roanoke provides free lodging for out of town families when their kids are in the hospital for extended amounts of time.
The Ronald McDonald House could use more donations and volunteers as well. WDBJ-7's Bryce Williams spent time with the Hedrick family from Giles County. Their 3 week old boy Timothy was born 3 months premature. If it wasn't for the Ronald Mc Donald House, his family would have a long commute or huge hotel costs on top of their medical bills.
We spoke with Timothy’s father Anthony Hedrick about his son’s condition. “Mainly his lung development-- they have to get developed and mature so he can breathe on his own naturally,” he said.
Timothy’s mother Deborah appreciates the care she has received at the facility. “You can talk to the other parents…they are going through the same things you are going through and then you can go back to your room and have your own peaceful time it's just a very nice place to come to,” she said.
Laney Mofield is the executive director of the Ronald McDonald House. “We know they are already facing some pretty hefty medical bills and having to be away from home we try to alleviate those things that would cause them worry so that all they have to focus on is the health of their child,” said Mofield.
Ken Schoff works for the Park Oakgrove Retirement Community. People who live in the community donated money to the Ronald McDonald House to show appreciation for all the RMH does for the community. “And this year, they demonstrated their care by raising about $2,200 for Ronald McDonald House,” he said.
If you would like to become a volunteer or donate, call (540) 857-0770 or log onto http://roanokeronaldmcdonald.com/
