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Finding Healing and Hope

While two families from Haiti arrived in Puerto Rico within days of each other

as strangers, they went back home as one – thanks to the unwavering support, love and compassion from RMHC staff, volunteers and other families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Puerto Rico.

Three-year-old Johnsley was born without a hip or knee on his right leg. Walking was extremely difficult – he had to kneel on his left leg and use his smaller right foot. The only option for Johnsley to walk normally was to travel to Puerto Rico with his mother where doctors would amputate his right foot and prepare his leg for a prosthetic one.

It was at the Ronald McDonald House that Johnsley met 14-year-old Gerilone, also from Haiti, who was born with a non-malignant tumor on his face and needed facial reconstruction surgeries. Becoming a teenager brings its own physical and emotional challenges, but doing so with a disfigured face was almost unbearable for Gerilone and his family. Thankfully, Gerilone received his much needed surgery while in Puerto Rico.

During their stay at the House, each family celebrated milestones for the boys. With encouragement, love and support, Johnsley took his first steps in the House with his mother Florise by his side. Staff, volunteers, other families and Gerilon watched Johnsley’s eyes light up as he discovered his new-found independence. And, Gerilon celebrated his 14th birthday (and his first-ever party) at the House surrounded by his RMHC family.

Both boys have returned home to Haiti their lives forever changed due in no small part to the support they received within the walls of the Ronald McDonald House. With your support, children like Johnsley and Gerilone can heal.

Donate today to help more families support their children.

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