When a child is ill or injured, families face moments that are hard to describe. And when care is far from home, that worry grows with the distance. Ronald McDonald House surrounds families with the care and support they need so they can stay close to their child and to each other.
For the Pittman family of Pasadena, that support has become an essential part of their journey.
While pregnant with their second daughter, Vanessa and Gaven Pittman learned their baby, Eleanor, would be born with complex medical needs. In addition to Down syndrome, doctors identified other health concerns that would require specialized care after birth.
What should have been a time filled with anticipation and joy quickly became overwhelming. Vanessa shared how stressful the news was, especially considering the financial burden of travel and having an older sibling, Evelyn, who would need her family near.
Living nearly 700 km from St. John’s, the family knew accessing the care Eleanor needed would be challenging. With frequent medical appointments and hospital visits, the cost of accommodation and time away from work would have placed an enormous strain on the family.
“I had heard of Ronald McDonald House before because multiple friends and family members had stayed there with their children,” they said. “When our doctor told me we could stay there, it was like a weight was lifted off our shoulders.”
Since her birth, Eleanor has required ongoing appointments with multiple specialists and care teams. Over multiple stays totaling more than 100 nights, the House has provided stability, comfort, and a community of people who understand the challenges they are facing.
Being able to stay at Ronald McDonald House, knowing they were just moments away from the hospital, provided the family with peace of mind. The House helps support the entire family, offering meals, a welcoming environment, and a place where both Eleanor and Evelyn could feel at home.
Shared experiences with other families, and simple conversations have helped ease the stress that often accompanies a child’s medical journey. “We have met so many families that we still keep in touch with that became family to us. The staff and volunteers are like our family away from home. Always friendly and always ready to help us with anything. They go above and beyond every day,” Vanessa said.
During one of the family’s many stays, Evelyn, turned 6. Having to celebrate her birthday away from home, friends, and the traditions she looked forward to each year was difficult for the whole family. The House was able to create a celebration they would never forget. “Evelyn wasn’t able to be with her friends and family, but the staff decorated for her and gave her the most magical day when we couldn’t be home,” Vanessa shared.
Looking ahead, Eleanor will require additional surgeries within the next year and ongoing medical follow-ups. Vanessa said, “There’s ups and downs, but so far she is thriving and we just do what we can on a daily basis for her.”
Family is not a visitor; they stick around for the long haul. Ronald McDonald House NL ensures families like the Pittman family can be together, supported, and close to the care they need.
