(2024)
When four-year-old Lucy required a BTM implant- a Biodegradable Temporising Matrix used to prepare her skin for grafting- her family knew they had a challenging journey ahead. What was supposed to be a five-day hospital stay quickly evolved into a much longer process. For eight weeks, Lucy’s family traveled two hours from their hometown every five days to check on her progress.

After Lucy’s skin graft was completed, her parents were prepared for another five-day stay in the hospital. However, recognizing Lucy's independence and active nature, the doctors suggested that the family could leave early—but only if they stayed locally in Townsville. Thankfully, the hospital's social worker arranged for them to stay at Ronald McDonald House.

Linda, Lucy’s mother, was immensely relieved and grateful for the accommodations. “I am so grateful to all the staff and facilities at Ronald McDonald,” Linda shared. “What we thought was going to be a 5-day stay ended up being extended, and thankfully Ronald McDonald had been so good to let us continue our stay!”

Lucy, described by her mother as resilient and full of energy, flourished during their time at Ronald McDonald House. “She hasn’t stopped being her crazy, adorable self,” Linda said. The house offered a range of activities that kept Lucy entertained, providing a sense of normalcy during a difficult time. Linda also appreciated that Lucy’s two older brothers could join them when they weren’t in school. “There was heaps to do to keep us all entertained and fed while we were there,” she recalled. “One of my children actually called it the hospital holiday house!”

The unexpected challenges of what should have been a routine procedure left Linda and her family feeling deeply thankful for Ronald McDonald House. After receiving the okay to leave the hospital, they had to continue traveling every 3-5 days for another nine weeks. Knowing they had a home at “Ronny Mac” if things took a turn for the worse brought them great comfort.

Linda was particularly touched by the kindness and dedication of the Ronald McDonald House staff. “The staff are so friendly and welcoming and go above and beyond to make sure families have everything they need,” she expressed. Even her food allergy was taken into account. “As someone with a food allergy, they made sure I wasn’t forgotten about either! We appreciate having such beautiful and kind people to lean on and have available to us in such a difficult time. Thank you to all who have and continue to assist us.”