20 Dec Staying on Track with School while Receiving Treatment

Meet Willow, a fun-loving 5-year-old from Long Island, New York! Willow was born with a rareconnective tissue disorder, which has required her and her family to make over a dozen trips to Philadelphia for her medical care. Willow’s mom, Chanel, says the Ronald McDonald House has become a second home to their family, allowing them to focus on Willow’s care without the
added worry of accommodations. “What do I not appreciate here?” says Chanel.

“Honestly, there’s literally everything here. Activities and play areas to entertain her for hours. There’s enough to think about in the world we live in with a child with medical needs, and having some of those worries taken off our plate is a huge advantage.”

In addition to the daily meals and comfortable rooms, Chanel appreciates other services provided, like tutoring. This fall, Willow started kindergarten, and Chanel was initially concerned that her daughter would be missing the beginning of the school
year and also not have a chance to meet her new classmates. That’s when she learned that the House was offering tutoring services. Willow signed up and she now attends tutoring twice a week during their stays at the House. Chanel is thrilled with the support they’ve received.

“I love that the teachers here were willing and able to communicate with Willow’s teacher at home to ensure she is working on the same things as her class. This communication should make her transition back to school a little easier.”

Willow greatly enjoys having someone else’s undivided attention for one hour, providing her with the personalized assistance she needs. She proudly brings all of her schoolwork back to their room after each tutoring session at the House.