Melissa and Terry received a call in March 2025 that would change their lives: their daughter Bianca had been diagnosed with leukemia.
Within 18 hours, Melissa and Bianca were flown to Sydney from Darwin. Unfortunately, this meant leaving Terry and Bianca’s little brother William behind.
The distance was hard, but thankfully, Terry and William were able to join them at “Ronnie Mac’s” when Bianca’s treatment plan became clearer. “We became a family again,” Melissa says.
“That’s not a hotel; that’s a home.”
The House offered a variety of activities for Bianca and William. The friendships they made with the other children also brought joy during a challenging time. For Melissa and Terry, it meant immense relief: warm meals, a comfortable bed near the hospital, and all the while being supported by a welcoming community.
Melissa shares a heartwarming anecdote. “We were talking about hotels recently, and I said we are staying at Ronnie Mac’s Hotel. Bianca turned to me and said, ‘Mum, that’s not a hotel; that’s a home.'”
“Ronald McDonald House Westmead is our home away from home: a place to be ourselves and connect with family and newfound friends.”
– Melissa, Bianca’s mum
A message to Ronald McDonald House supporters
Melissa says, “Ronnie Mac’s couldn’t exist without its supporters. Please know that you are making a difference in not only Bianca’s life but her extended family and friends.”