Josh’s Journey

 “I don’t know where I would be today without the Ronald House. It truly is the house that love built.”  – Rebecca, RMHC Mom

Since the day he was born, the Ronald McDonald House has been a part of Josh’s life. Staying at Ronald McDonald Houses in different cities throughout his care, his mom Rebecca says that he grew up in them.

Born with Krabbe Leukodystrophy, Josh has needed care all his life. After receiving a stem cell transplant in North Carolina, his care was transferred to a hospital in Pittsburgh. For nearly five years, Josh and his family have been traveling over 300 miles from their New York home to see his physicians, staying at Ronald McDonald House Pittsburgh each time.

“You can feel the love and kindness when you are there. Everyone is friendly and they make us feel so welcome,” said Rebecca.

When they are there, Rebecca likes to bake for the other families. She finds it to be a stress reliever to prepare sweet treats like cupcakes and pumpkin rolls for others. Josh loves to read and enjoys the books in the House library.

“Being at the Ronald McDonald House helps so much.” said Rebecca. “You are so focused on the medical part and these activities help you get your mind off things.”

Staying at Ronald McDonald Houses has brought Josh and his family great comfort over the years. No matter where they have stayed, it has always felt like home.

“I don’t know where I would be today without the Ronald House. It truly is the house that love built,” said Rebecca.