It Started With One Child--It Can Continue With You
When 3-year-old Kim Hill was battling leukemia in 1969, her parents, Fred and Fran, stayed by her side in the hospital—sleeping in chairs, eating from vending machines, and fighting the physical and emotional fatigue that comes from caring for a sick child.
Despite the prediction of doctors, Kim beat the odds and survived. Inspired by their struggle, Fred and Fran decided to help other families who were fighting similar battles. They understood that parents could give more to their sick child if they had a place to sleep close to the hospital, home-cooked food and the support of people who understood their worries.
The Hills worked with Dr. Audrey Evans, pediatric oncologist from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Eagles, McDonald's and the Philadelphia community to open the first Ronald McDonald House® in Philadelphia in 1974. The House has been a great source of strength for families for 40 years.
Since the first Ronald McDonald House opened, it has been replicated more than 345 times throughout the world, with additional core, family-centered programs and resources added to fit family needs.
Although Kim passed away at the age of 44, she has left a legacy of care for millions of families whose children are fighting life-threatening illnesses.
Continue the Journey
When you give to Ronald McDonald House Charities® now or through your estate plan, you are continuing to honor Kim's memory, as well as ensuring our ability to provide stability and vital resources to families in need. We hope you will continue this journey that began with one child 40 years ago by providing hope and support for millions more.
Questions about ways to give through a planned gift?
Contact Lacee O’Brien at 630-623-7048 or lacee.obrien@us.mcd.com