02 Aug A Stress Relief for Mom
In March, Carisa’s son, Jaxson, was diagnosed with a rare type of brain cancer known as DIPG.
They spent 56 days at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), during which time Carisa’s other children found solace at the Ronald McDonald House. Carisa shared, “It was so wonderful to have a place for them to come, be close, and not worry about traveling, money for gas, or food. It was just huge.” The activities and amenities at the House provided comfort and distraction during a challenging time.
After a brief period at home, Jaxson’s scans revealed he would need more treatment, necessitating another stay at the Ronald McDonald House. This time, Carisa stayed with Jaxson, and she cannot overstate the relief she felt. “Being here has just relieved all of that stress. The financial burden alone is huge because, on top of copays and insurance, having a place to stay close to your child is tough.” As a single mom living two hours away, the House offered more than just a place to stay – it offered peace of mind.
Carisa spoke highly of the community feel at the House. “If we had stayed in a hotel, we wouldn’t have felt like part of a community. Here, you get the lifestyle of a hotel, but everyone’s in it with you. Our first day, Jaxson had an episode, and no one batted an eye. Everyone’s experienced something similar. It felt great not to feel different.”
Carisa appreciated the ability to prepare meals for Jaxson, saying, “It’s nice to have the option to cook, as some meals are like a security blanket for your child.” She says the daily dinners also allowed families to come together and share their day, fostering a sense of normalcy amid their challenges.
The volunteers at the House play a crucial role in this supportive environment. Carisa expressed her gratitude, noting that the volunteers, “Don’t look at you with pity. They treat you with kindness and respect.” This compassion and understanding help families like Carisa’s navigate their difficult journeys with a little less stress.