July 18, 2017

Ria Colbourne and Her Family from Coffee Cove Spent 42 Nights at Ronald McDonald House

It is hard to put into words how a parent feels when their child has been diagnosed with a serious illness. It has to be one of the darkest places a parent can go. For families who don’t live close to the care and resources they need, there is an added stress, distance. RMHC gives families with a sick child what they need most – each other.

At the young age of thirteen, Ria Colbourne of Coffee Cove, was diagnosed with Schwannoma Tumors, a nerve sheath tumor that attacks the nervous system. For the Colbourne Family, Ria, her dad Kenny, step-mother Sharlene and younger brother, Logan, faced a challenging road ahead – one filled with long drives, hospital stays, surgeries and treatments. They worried about numerous things, even the simple things, like where they would stay. Shortly after Ria’s diagnosis the family were introduced to the programs and services of Ronald McDonald House.

“We were so afraid and unsettled when Ria was diagnosed, the social worker knew there would be a long stay, far from home, ahead of us. But the social worker contacted Ronald McDonald House for us. All I can remember is breaking down into tears as we were showed around this beautiful house. I was overwhelmed with a warm feeling of knowing that so many people actually cared about our little family.” said Sharlene Oram, Ria’s step-mother.

Since their first stay at Ronald McDonald House in July of 2016, the Colbourne Family have been cared for on five occasions totaling 42 nights. Ria still sleeps with the special quilt given to her on their first visit and the magic room is just as magical each time she gets to open its doors!

“I remember Kenny stayed with her one evening so I could attend a card making night at RMHC. I felt so relaxed. It was a wonderful break. The meals and treats that our family shared were tasty and helped us with our limited budget. we have met many friends and every time we stay at Ronald McDonald House we leave feeling blessed that so many people donate their time and resources for families like ours. Simply amazing!”  Sharlene Oram

While Ria’s journey is far from over, the Colbourne Family continues to find strength at Ronald McDonald House thanks to you.