RMDH a lifeline for local families

Ronald McDonald House a lifeline for local families

When four-year-old Grace Quinlan suddenly became unwell, her parents hoped it was something easily resolved. But after weeks of uncertainty and further testing, Grace was urgently referred to Christchurch Hospital. There, the Quinlans received heartbreaking news no family ever wants to hear: Grace had leukaemia.

In an instant, life was turned upside down.

With Grace beginning intensive chemotherapy far from home, her mum, Kaye, needed to stay close by. Grace’s dad, Liam, remained in Temuka to care for the family farm — meaning the family was faced with the enormous emotional and logistical strain of being separated.

Because of the support provided by Ronald McDonald House Charities® New Zealand (RMHC® NZ), made possible in part through the generosity of Aoraki Foundation donors, Kaye had a safe, welcoming place to stay just moments from Grace’s hospital bedside. This allowed her to focus solely on Grace’s comfort and care, free from the added pressure of accommodation costs and long-distance travel.

At Ronald McDonald House, the Quinlans were surrounded by other families who truly understood what they were going through. What could have been an isolating and overwhelming experience instead became a vital source of connection, strength, and hope.

Grace’s story is just one example of the impact our community creates together.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, RMHC® NZ supported 90 families from the Timaru, Mackenzie, and Waimate districts — ensuring they could remain together and close to their child’s medical care when it mattered most.

We are proud to help make this support possible, and deeply grateful to every donor who partners with us to care for South Canterbury families in their greatest time of need.