Recipient Story: Ronald McDonald House

The Chappell family from Timaru: Paul, Ashleigh, and five-year-old Tyson have stayed at Ronald McDonald House in Christchurch multiple times for Tyson’s cleft palate surgery and various ear/nose/throat procedures.

Life was busy; Paul is a builder and Ashleigh a Compliance Manager so managing fulltime work with Tyson kept them very occupied. However, at 26 weeks pregnant with Ryder, Ashleigh had to be flown urgently to Christchurch Hospital by emergency helicopter due to an antepartum hemorrhage (APH). Ashley says ''this was quite terrifying – leaving Tyson behind broke my heart and I didn't see him again for 8 days.'' Little did she know I she wouldn't be home again for 3 months! Baby Ryder decided that 27 weeks was enough cooking time and arrived very dramatically and quickly” says Ashleigh. Ryder weighed just 1044 grams (2 pounds, 5 ounces)

While Ryder gained strength, Ronald McDonald House became a crucial haven for the Chappells, allowing them to stay close and focus on his recovery.

“The support we received was incredible,” Ashleigh says. “Having a warm, safe space, meals provided, and the ability to be near Ryder at all times made an enormous difference.” Tyson also benefited—finding joy in the House’s welcoming environment on weekends when he traveled up from Timaru with his father, Paul.

“Over the Easter holiday, the family was touched by the kindness of staff and volunteers, who made the weekend special with activities and treats. “I will never forget the look on Tyson’s face when he opened the bedroom door,” Ashleigh recalls.

“Tyson often talks about Ronald McDonald House, and he can’t wait to take Ryder back there when he’s older to show him what it’s all about” Ashleigh explains.

Beyond the physical comforts, Ronald McDonald House fostered deep connections between families facing similar experiences, creating friendships that the Chappells will cherish for a lifetime.

“The staff and volunteers make RMHC NZ what it is. Their support is invaluable, and they are always there if you need to have a chat or support you in any way you need.

Ashleigh says, “Ronald McDonald House in Christchurch holds a very special place in our hearts, and we will make sure our boys grow up knowing that it’s a huge part of their journey and lives.”

After 69 days in NICU, Ryder was finally strong enough to return home, and the Chappells reunited as a family of four in Timaru—just 12 days before his original due date.

Now a happy, thriving six-month-old, Ryder is a testament to resilience, and his family is forever grateful for the unwavering support they received.

With contributions from Aoraki Foundation's South Canterbury Health Endowment Fund, and Bidwill Trust, RMHC NZ continues to provide families with not just a place to stay, but a place of healing, connection, and hope.“While wee Ryder gained strength, the family stayed just down the road at Ronald McDonald House – all up for just over two months.

How the Aoraki Foundation helped:

The Aoraki Foundation supported the Ronald McDonald House with a grant of $5,000 from the South Canterbury Health Endowment. This was made possible by Bidwill Trust Hospital.