"We heard they had a school there, but little did we know the lasting impact it would have on our lives!"

Wes and his family are part of our RMH family!

Wes and his family first came to stay at the House soon after his sister, Ireland, was born. Ireland has several serious conditions that require ongoing medical care. During long stretches in the hospital, Wes and his family stay at the RMH to be near her.

Wes and his family have been spending time at the RMH since Wes was a toddler. In fact, he attended our RMH school for most of his Kindergarten year into first grade. During that time, Wes made many friends. As his mom, Shanna, points out, he learned to say good-bye to many friends too; as they headed home while Wes and his family stayed on for Ireland's continued care. Wes learned so much about medical conditions while he was here at the House. We were all touched when he announced his plan to grow his beautiful, red hair to donate to Locks of Love®, supporting kids going through chemo. Wes is wonderfully compassionate and loves to help others.  

 

Inspired by his sister and the other kids he came to know at the RMH, Wes grew his hair to donate to Locks of Love.

 

We love to see kids make a difference!

After Wes left the RMH, we experienced a first for the school; a chance to visit a student's  hometown school. Our teacher, Mrs. B, and Persis (Director of Family Services) helped students learn about Ireland's conditions, what children experience at the Ronald McDonald House, and how we help families stay together. It was a wonderful visit and something we wish we could to for every student.  

 

Shanna (Wes' mom) shares her memories….

"We had our first stay at the Ronald McDonald House in 2008, just a few months after Ireland was born. Wes was 2½ years old. We heard they had a school there, but little did we know the lasting impact it would have on our lives! When I asked Wes what his favorite part of going to school at the RMH was, his reply was, "We'll that's easy. The teacher!" Wes has such great memories of that time. He frequently looks through his RMH scrapbook and Ireland loves looking at it, too! Wes formed friendships that will last a lifetime! The kids there form such special bonds and help each other through tough times. The hardest part of leaving the Ronald McDonald House for Wes was leaving behind his friends and of course his teachers. The RMH staff does such a wonderful job helping kids as well as parents through these difficult transitions. Having a sick child is stressful enough. It was so reassuring not to have to worry about Wes academically on top of everything else."

Sibling love at the RMH! Devin, Ireland and Wes. 
- Photo by Jim Bovin

 

"Wes turned 8 years old yesterday. His time at the Ronald McDonald House has definitely helped shape him into the wonderful little boy he is today.  Thank you, Ronald McDonald House and staff!"

 

Happy Birthday, Wes! We're so glad to have you as part of our RMH family.