The King’s Story

Pictured: Zara and her mother, Anna

Little Zara Rose feels right at home at Ronald McDonald House because for most of her life, her family has been staying at our South Brisbane House, right across the road from the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

The King family were aware of Zara’s conditions before she was born and were already staying at Ronald McDonald House before she arrived. The happy little bub has chronic kidney disease, Vactryl syndrome, as well as heart and respiratory issues and has been receiving treatment at QCH since she was born.

It’s been touch and go for the family from Bundaberg and staying close by was imperative, especially in those first few difficult months. “The Ronald McDonald House has been great for keeping our family together when we are in uncertain times of Zara’s life, and just being able to run across the road when you have the phone call in the middle of the night,” said Mum Anna.

The King family’s first stay at the House was three months, with another two month and three month stays for Zara’s surgeries and appointments. Anna’s Mum Deb also regularly stays with the family when they are at the House, which is a great support as the family will regularly travel to Brisbane for Zara’s future treatment.

“Being able to stay at the House has helped in so many ways, but particularly ensuring we can be together so we don’t miss out on anything. The staff and volunteers are so special and always there to listen or to try and perk us up. I don’t know what we would do without Ronald McDonald House.”

Bridge to Brisbane naming sponsor Transurban, have been wonderful supporters of RMHC SEQ over the last eight years and have funded numerous projects and services across their Brisbane-based facilities. Their support has helped thousands of families requiring accommodation and assistance during the treatment of their child’s illness or injury.

As a major partner for RMHC SEQ, Team Transurban are aiming to fund RMHC SEQ’s in-hospital emergency accommodation at Queensland Children’s Hospital for a third year through their Bridge to Brisbane fundraising appeal.

Click here to register, fundraise or donate to RMHC SEQ

RMHC SEQ need the support of you and your community so they can keep families together and close to the care their child needs.

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