Ronald McDonald House Charities

The painful treatments and tests have been grueling for Itzel. The treatments also mean that she was away from her school and her family – her twin brothers and her older sister. Thankfully, Itzel and her mom have been able to find comfort in a very special place – the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Toluca, Mexico.

Steps away from where she was getting treated, the Ronald McDonald Family Room offered a place for Itzel’s family to rest and regroup right at the hospital so they could in turn better support Itzel during her treatment.

Through the Ronald McDonald Family Room she was also able to continue her school studies. “This place is so cool that even when I was hospitalized, I did not have to stop studying,” said Itzel. This Family Room features an educational classroom created in partnership with the Ministry of Education, where ill children are able to study and prepare for their academic tests. “Because I was able to read my books and ask lots of questions, I was not behind and was able to complete my exams with great grades!”

This colorful and vibrant place allows children, like Iztel, and their families to watch movies, enjoy a snack, or take a nap. They can be together, always being near their loved ones, to ease their pain, lift up their spirits and overcome their illness.

Inside a Ronald McDonald Family Room, even special days like Mother’s Day are possible. This Mother’s Day, as Itzel and her mother wait for the doctors or while the medical treatment is undergoing, they will be able to celebrate this special occasion as a family.

We celebrate all mothers for everything they do in support of their children’s health and well-being. Happy Mother’s Day!