A Stratford woman is drawing on her own experience and is hoping to make the holidays shine that much brighter.
Sky Dupe is collecting donations for the Ronald McDonald House in London while also commemorating 18 years of her being cancer free.
“When I was little I was diagnosed with Leukemia,” Dupe said. “I was in the London hospital and my family actually stayed at the Ronald McDonald House, a lot of times. Fast forward to this year and my niece was also in the hospital so her mom stayed there too.”
According to Ronald McDonald House Charities, two out of three Canadian families live outside of a city that has a children’s hospital. The goal of Ronald McDonald House is to provide families with a home away from home.
“The immediate needs at Ronald McDonald House include things like hygiene products, but dry food, like individual snacks are also much needed,” says Dupe.
Dupe plans to drop off all donations to the Ronald McDonald House on December 23, so there is lots of time to donate.
“I’m hoping to raise money, gift cards, presents for kids in need, and of course food,” she said. “They are also looking for things like reusable water bottles, stuffed animals for the kids, condiments for food, activity books and journals along with books to keep people entertained are also appreciated.”
Looking back on her time in the hospital, Dupe says she is extremely grateful for everything provided by Ronald McDonald House, adding that the amenities offered at there are extensive.
“They have rooms that you can stay in if your child is sick,” Dupe said. “There is a full kitchen where you can prepare meals to take back to your room, they also have playrooms for children, and counseling support.”
The program asks that families pay $10 to stay if possible, but it is not required. This act of generosity helps save families $4.7 million dollars in southwestern Ontario alone annually in out-of-pocket expenses for lodging, food and other essentials.
You can donate directly to Ronald McDonald House Charities here, or you can donate directly to Dupe, who will gladly pick up any donations. She can be reached at [email protected] or by calling 519-272-5173.
