Winter 2013 - Ronald McDonald House

Fall 2013
the Cookie Sheet
News and Notes from Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan
Connor’s Family Journey
Cheylynne Luch, Connor Luch, Brittyn Baillie, Scott Baillie and Nikki Luch
On May 3rd, 2013, I went to work and
my day started as every other Friday had
for many years. I had only been at work
a few minutes when I received a call from
the doctor whom my eight year old son
Connor, had previously seen regarding
some headaches. That call was one of every
parent’s nightmare . . . your son has a brain
tumour. I was devastated to say the least. I
was told to have him in Regina, which was
a 45 minute drive from home, within an
hour.
The drive to Regina was quiet. I was trying
to be strong for Connor, although, with
being eight, he could definitely sense there
was something horribly wrong. That was,
I am sure, the longest day ever, filled with
uncertainty, helplessness, fear, and anger.
We were told after just one night in Regina,
there was nothing they could do for us, we
were now being transferred to Saskatoon.
Now we would be further from home,
further from my family and other children.
Upon arrival to the Saskatoon Royal
University Hospital, I instantly felt more
at home and accustomed quickly to the
decision made. After a CT scan, and MRI
were done, it was determined that the
tumour was wrapped around the carotid
artery, and that surgery would not be
1011 University Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0K4 Phone:306-244-5802
possible as it was much too dangerous.
On May 10th, Connor had his first biopsy.
After nearly two weeks of eagerly awaiting
the pathology report, we were told it came
back as inconclusive. By this time, the
tumour was creating so much pressure
on his nerves that he was throwing up
constantly, in severe pain from headaches,
as well as it had caused a type of palsy in
his left eye causing it to remain closed.
May 31st, he had a second biopsy
performed through the back of his ear.
After a long 7.5 hour surgery, coming
only 1mm away from the carotid artery,
Website:www.rmh.sk.ca
Board Members
President
Kaylynn Schroeder
Vice President
Bette Boechler
Directors
Roger Arnold
Patricia Cook
Jim Flath
Curt Halpenny
Krista Hamstra
Ken Howland
Ken Malenfant
Dorothy Myo
Doug Osborn
Annette Pilipiak
Staff
Executive Director
Tammy Forrester
Director of Family &
Volunteer Services
Marcelline Zimmer
Volunteer Coordinator
Kim Gilbert
Finance & Office Manager
Marg Coverett
Admin Assistant
Faye Marcoux
Housekeeper
Glovelyn Wad-As
Resident Evening Supervisor
Irene Hildebrandt
Privacy Statement
Ronald McDonald House
Saskatchewan/The Friends of
Saskatchewan Children Inc does
not sell, trade or lease the personal
information of its donors.
I felt a sigh of relief that it was over, but
also knew we again had to wait for the
results, and this time, with his health
deteriorating quickly, it was worse than
before. During the waiting time, we met
with the Oncologist, who suggested we
“buy some time”, and start a general round
of chemotherapy. “Even though we don’t
know exactly what we are dealing with,
it could possibly stop the tumour from
growing, and relieve some pressure before
more damage is created” he had said. As
scary as it sounded, we knew we had to do
something, so we agreed. It was amazing!
They ran 48 hrs of straight chemotherapy,
and by the end of that week the vomiting
had stopped, his pain had subsided, and
he was soon going to be coming off all
pain medications. This marked the first
signs of any hope in weeks. Thankfully,
he was feeling better as we still anxiously
awaited the report. This time it took 3 1/2
weeks, and unbelievably, it came back as
UNDIAGNOSED. Family, friends, and
nurses were asking for answers and we
had none. All we knew was that he had a
small blue cell tumour that was aggressive
and malignant. At this time, we were
looking at yet another biopsy, however, I
didn’t have much faith in pathology at this
time, and my poor boy had been through
so much already, I wanted other options.
I knew we would not get the “proper”
diagnosis without another biopsy, but
with him reacting so well to the chemo,
and feeling the best he has in weeks, we
decided to weigh the options. After much
consideration, second opinions, family
meetings and discussions with doctors,
Connor was placed on the treatment plan
for Ewing Sarcoma, which included many
rounds of chemo and five straight weeks of
radiation, followed by more chemo. After
already spending countless nights in the
hospital, I knew we still had a long way to
go, but I had promised Connor he would
not go through this alone.
The social worker from the RUH had
suggested we stay at the Ronald McDonald
House during radiation as we would have
to stay in Saskatoon for treatment, however,
he would not have to be admitted to the
hospital. Just knowing we had this option
was a huge relief, as the cost of a hotel for
this long was not an option as I had not
worked for months now. The social worker
called and made the arrangements and the
ladies at Ronald McDonald House called
us with the first available room.
We arrived at the Ronald McDonald
House, uncertain of what to expect, and I
knew as soon as we walked in that the next
five weeks would feel like being at “home”.
It was so warm and welcome. We were
greeted every day by the staff as well as the
many volunteers just like we were family.
We were able to establish a routine, walk to
the hospital for treatment and simply enjoy
life without the extra worries. It didn’t
take long for Connor to figure out exactly
which days the ladies came in to make fresh
cookies or cinnamon buns, and the thought
of having a pop machine in your own house
was like heaven to him. He adapted very
well. During our stay, we met a lot of other
families, and although we were all there for
different reasons, we could all relate in one
way or another. There are a lot of amenities
that a person seems to forget about in these
trying times and RMH had them covered.
There was a computer for everyone to use, a
phone to make long distance calls to family
back home, a very clean environment and
always endless support.
It takes special people with a lot of love to
constantly give support and provide for
those in need at stressful times and being
able to give kids what they need most, their
families. Since our stay at the RMH, I can
truly appreciate why it is “the home that
love built”.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 2
President’s Message . Kaylynn Schroeder
The For Every Family Capital Campaign was an overwhelming
success and as a result, our dream of an expanded House will
become a reality in early 2014.
The hard work of our volunteers, staff and Board has ensured
that we will continue to deliver on our mandate to provide a
home-away-from home for families and their sick children while
getting medical treatment in Saskatoon. The House will become
a home to many families in the future and it is our hope that they
will be as comfortable as possible in our home during their stay.
As you can imagine the change in operations at the House is
significant as we transform from 13 to 34 bedrooms. However,
we are all up to the challenge and are working hard to ensure
that we have minimal disruption for our families during the
changeover.
My sincere thanks to everyone who has played a part in the expansion as this is truly a major milestone in the history of
the House and I know that the families we serve are grateful for everyone’s effort in making this a reality.
Farewell to the Families and Volunteers . Irene Hildebrant
I have been privileged to have a very special home for the past sixteen years.
Having volunteered since 1990 as weekly office relief, Joyce Brooks, House
Manager approached me in 1997 to take on the responsibility of a Resident
Evening Supervisor. It was quite a learning experience for me and I thank Joyce
for her guidance and patience. Her successor, Lorraine Johannson, was a great
support to me and very accommodating.
One of the best things about living at RMHS has been the opportunity to meet so
many wonderful families. Their gratitude for the facility and their kindness during
the most trying of circumstances has been very humbling for me. Thankfully, the
new expansion will eliminate the long wait time for accommodation.
And this House would not be a home without the Volunteers. I have met so many
volunteers during the past 16 years, whether it was on an annual, monthly, weekly
or occasional basis. I am so grateful to have worked with you. Those memories are and will continue to be very special.
My gratitude and best wishes are extended to Tammy, Marce, Marg and all staff as you continue to serve the many
families of Saskatchewan.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 3
Kellie’s Family
Kellie, Alex, Julia, Baby Cecily, Dad Dave and Mom Jennifer
In July 2013 our family was in the midst
of summer holidays. We had just finished
swimming lessons and were planning our
camping trip. Our daughter Kellie had
been sick off and on since the end of June.
It really seemed like nothing more than
a cold or flu at first but it just wouldn’t
clear up. She had already been on
antibiotics twice when on the morning of
July 26 she woke up and her legs hurt so
bad that she couldn’t even get out of bed
to walk to the bathroom across the hall.
I immediately phoned our family doctor
and made an emergency appointment for
late that morning. Our doctor ordered
blood and urine tests along with x-rays,
and asked us to make an appointment for
Monday morning to go over the results.
The next day was Saturday. At 9:50
AM the phone rang. It was the hospital,
our doctor wanted us to come in to the
hospital immediately and go over the
results from Kellie’s tests. My heart sank
and my stomach was in my throat, I
instantly knew it wasn’t going to be good
news on a Saturday morning. I could
hardly believe the doctors words “Hey
guys. I’ve got some bad news, it looks......
it looks like Kellie has.....Leukemia.”
He called the pediatric oncologist in
Saskatoon and insisted that we come right
away.
Soon after being admitted into RUH
Kellie had more tests done and it
was confirmed that our little girl had
leukemia. It was just 4 days after her
fourth birthday. The following Monday
Kellie had her first bone marrow
and lumbar puncture done. Then on
Wednesday she had her port or as we
have come to know it her “magic button”
put in . Through here she would receive
all her chemo, and other fluids that she
would need to have through the course of
her treatment.
During those first two weeks I barely
left the hospital. Sometimes only for an
hour or so to go pick up something that
Kellie or I needed but only if there was
someone else who could stay with her.
As the day for her to get discharged from
the hospital got closer the nursing staff
and the social worker from the cancer
clinic urged us to look into the Ronald
McDonald House as we needed to stay in
the city for a while as Kellie was having
to make visits to the cancer clinic three
days a week . The day before Kellie was
released from the hospital we got a room
at RMH. I walked over that afternoon to
take a break from the hospital. As soon
as I walked in I was greeted with warm
smiles and friendly Hellos. I was given
the tour of the house. I immediately felt
comfortable and knew that this would be
a great place for Kellie to rest in between
treatments.
It was late in the day on August 9 when
we were finally done all of Kellie’s meds
and discharged from the hospital. The
nurses said we could stay and leave in the
morning but Kellie insisted that she was
done there. She was not spending one
more night in that hospital bed. So we
packed all of our stuff up and made the
move to RMH. To be honest Kellie was
a little disappointed when we first pulled
up. She thought that we were actually
staying at the McDonald’s Restaurant.
It didn’t take long for me to convince
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 4
her that this House would be better for
resting at.
In the morning Kellie was very hungry
and since we hadn’t had a chance to
go shopping we raided the community
cupboard and fridge for some cereal and
then later at lunch we had some Kraft
dinner. Not having to worry about what
we were going to eat or having to go
grocery shopping right away made this
transition a little easier for us. Later that
day my mom and dad came by with our
other children and all the kids were able
to play together before they had to head
home that night. That was everyone’s
first trip to the toy cupboard. All my
kids’ faces lit up as those doors opened
and they saw shelves full of toys and they
could pick anything they wanted. For
days after they went home they talked
about that incredible toy closet.
Every morning we were greeted
downstairs by cheery smiles. The staff
always wanted to know how Kellie was
doing today. They were also very helpful
in finding activities for us to do on the
days Kellie didn’t have treatment and
for when Dave and the other kids came
down to see Kellie and I.
Kellie was on some medication that
our family came to know as “the cranky
medicine”. Kellie would have such mood
swings she would be grumpy and irritable
one minute and crying the next. There
were so many days she would sit at the
counter in the kitchen with her head in
her hands, she looked so sad. She didn’t
want to go and do anything; she didn’t
want to play with the other kids in the
house. I remember the first time Dave
brought our kids down to see us. Kellie
changed. It was the first real smile I had
seen on her face in days. Just being able
to have her brother and sisters with her
gave her that piece of normal that she
wanted and needed so badlyy
when everything had
been turned upside down.
rest and not have long days of travelling
to and from home combined with the
exhaustion of the chemo itself. It makes
it easier on Dave and I not having to eat
in restaurants and pay for hotels all the
time. I can’t imagine how we would have
made it through those first weeks without
RMH and I know that it will continue
to have an impact on our families’
life throughout the course of Kellie’s
treatment. Every time we come we are
greeted with friendly smiles and people
who really care about how treatment is
going (and jars full of fresh cookies which
helps make anyone feel at home).
Kellie’s treatments are
ongoing and we continue
to stay at RMH. It makes
it easier on her that she can
Mission Statement
“Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan provides a supportive home away from home in Saskatoon for
the families of sick children.”
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 5
Dear Parent of a Sick Child
Posted by barrentoblessed – Caroline Bailey
Hello there. How are you? No, really…
how are you? I’m sure you are tired,
worried, overwhelmed, desperately seeking
normalcy, and wondering when your child
will get better. I hope my words bring
you encouragement.
When I was a sick child, I remember
being cared for by adults. I remember
the adults that surrounded my bedside
whispering encouragement into my ears.
I remember never waking up alone in my
hospital room, never wondering if I would
be taken care of, and never imagining that
I was not loved.
My memories are mostly like flashes from
a movie screen. These moments are frozen
in time. I knew I was in an immense
amount of pain, but I don’t remember the
pain. I don’t remember the struggle to
survive. I don’t remember my body being
ravaged by infection. I don’t remember
these moments at all.
I do, however, remember the love I felt in
the room. I remember the gentle rubbing
of my arms, the softness of someone
holding my hand, the brushing away of
my hair from my eyes, and the kisses on
my face. I remember these things.
I remember receiving cards, letters,
balloons, flowers, stuffed animals, and just
about anything else that would bring a
smile to me. I remember waking up with
my parents there….all of the time. Even
when I was in and out of consciousness, I
remember them.
I also remember my parents never showing
their fear, despite being filled with it.
I remember how they showed great
strength; even though their bodies wore
the trappings of exhaustion. I remember
their caring hands, their patience with my
recovery, and their filling-in to meet my
daily needs. I remember being told I was
a “little trooper”, and that my will to live
was stronger than any illness. I remember
my mother giving me baths in the
hospital, and my dad holding my hand as
often as he could.
Please, dear parent, please know that
your presence is precious to your sick
child. Your bravery is beautiful, and
your courage is contagious. Don’t stop
fighting for your child. Don’t stop asking
questions about treatment options. Don’t
stop whispering sweet words of hope
into your child’s ears. These words will
resonate deep down in your child.
Tell your child how much you love them.
Tell your child that he or she is the bravest
little one you have ever seen. Tell your
child stories of healing. Tell your child
that he or she is a superhero. Give your
child the hope that you are clinging to.
Pray for your child; pray over child; and
ask others to join in your prayers.
Your child knows you are there. He or she
knows it, even if not awake. Don’t forget
that. You are the most significant person
in his or her life. You matter. Please, dear
parent, please know how much you mean
to your sickly child.
Hang in there. You are in a situation that
you never dreamed you would be in. You
would give anything to trade positions
with your baby, but you cannot. I know
how hard that must be for you.
Dear Parent of a Sick Child, get some
sleep. Ask for help. Take care of yourself.
You are a superhero. You are a trooper.
Your will is strong. Don’t forget these
things.
Bless you, dear parent, bless you. Thank
you for striving for the best care for your
child. Thank you for holding his or her
hand in the middle of many sleepless
nights. Thank you for putting on the
bravest face you can during this difficult
time.
Dear Parent of a Sick Child, what you
are doing matters. Your strength, your
wisdom, your love, your hope, your
courage, and your presence are the greatest
gifts you can give your child. Don’t forget
that, and don’t be discouraged.
Vision Statement
“Giving sick children what they need most . . . the presence and support of their families”
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 6
We Are Families!
Mikaela, Braeden and Anikin,
children of Christa
and Amory, were all smiles abo
ut going home to
Onion Lake, SK after their visi
t to the toy cupboard.
Ronel, Ritchelle and baby Raisa of Nipawin, SK are so
grateful to stay at the House and spread their sunshine to
everyone.
Bryan and
Jennifer W
right
holding bab
y Jackson an of Tisdale, SK
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Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 7
House Wish List
Due to the expansion, RMHS
has very little storage space.
This Christmas the staff and
volunteers are wishing for gift
cards to help us support families
on an “as needed basis”. Gift
cards that would be greatly
appreciated include: restaurants
(casual family dining), movie
nights, groceries and taxi cards
Make the House a
Campaign
Ca
ampaign
To learn more about this
campaign and how you
can help, please visit
www.rmh.sk.ca
In a few short months, the doors
to Ronald McDonald House
Saskatchewan (RMHS) will re-open
to 34 guestrooms and 43,000 square
feet of living space for our families.
We have a lot to do to make our new
House “a home”. In an effort to
assist our donors and the community
who contact us during the holiday
season, the staff and volunteers at
RMHS have created the “Make
Our House a Home” campaign.
The campaign will officially launch
December 1st, 2013 and will assist
in communicating the specific needs
of the House that will help furnish,
equip and decorate the House and,
in short, make the House a “home”.
Individuals or groups who would
like to help are asked to visit our
gift registries with local merchant
partners either in-store or on-line.
Here you can purchase or help
purchase the specific items on our
list to help make our House a home.
Items on the list will fit any budget
and range from small to big, they
include: cutlery, bowls, bake-ware,
pots & pans, small appliances, knife
sets, cutting boards, utensils, baskets,
baby monitors, play-pens, strollers,
towels, furniture and numerous
décor items.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 8
Kim’s Volunteer Vision
Since the start of my work at Ronald McDonald House
Saskatchewan (RMHS), I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard
people say, “there’s just something about this place”, or “it just feels
good here”; there’s no denying the House has a certain ‘je ne sais
quoi’ something unexplainable - like magic. The kind of magic that
even when you think there is no possible way, things come together
to care for the many families who make RMHS their temporary
home.
Perhaps this ‘magic’ is really more like dedication, compassion,
common vision and hard work. Perhaps it’s all of these attributes
combined that make the magic happen. And when combined,
they add up to a safe and comfortable home that offers a sliver of
security for families during a challenging or uncertain time in their
lives.
Our volunteer team works their magic every single day, as hours
are spent answering phones, providing nourishing meals, baking
tasty treats, cleaning, organizing, gardening, carrying suitcases,
changing light bulbs, decorating for the changing seasons, lending
a listening ear, and much, much more. These are hours filled with
selfless service and compassion, and it is clear that our volunteer
team is passionately committed to the mission of the House.
In addition to all these activities that make the House a home,
we are undertaking the huge endeavor of a 43,000 square foot
renovation and addition! I am so excited by what we will be able
to offer the families, and realize it will take all hands on deck to
Verdyne the Grocery Grabber
Definitely in Fashion
make this project a reality. And I have no doubt that we will thrive
through this process. This is a team full of expertise, dedication
and elbow grease. Not only will the work get done, it will be done
excellently.
Some days I just can’t believe my luck. It is a great privilege to be a
part of this amazing team, and every day I come to work I am both
inspired and humbled by the generosity and compassion around
me. I can’t imagine a more exciting time at RMHS, and I’m so
happy to get to be a part of the ‘magic’.
Our volunteer team comes from across the province. If you want to
know how you can help out, please call 306-244-5700 or email
[email protected]
avis
– Kathy, Susan and M
Marlene the Pink Cowgirl
and her
sidekick Dolly Parton
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 9
Our Volunteers
The Heart of the Home
5 Year Award
5 year awards
Paula and Greg Goosen
Leah Hientz
Rose Silzer-Quinn and Brian
Quinn
Tracey Schreiner
New Volunteers
Ashley Bowering
Shawn Bursey
Denise Cheke
Piper Clarke
Nicole Crerar
Daniel Dahlman
Kim Day
Lauren Donauer
Cameron Drummond
Leon Gammer
Dana Hawkes
Tyler Grand
Stefanie Kingsbury
Daisy Lieu
Cai-lei Matsumoto
Donna Merasty
Verdyne Miller
Jenna Neufeld
Kelsey Olson
Twyla Pearce
Susan Putz
Dionne Reed
Jaime Storch
Jesse Thomson
Craig Wilson
Pam Wilson
Deanne Wick
Evan Zurloff
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10 year awards
Denise Ploss
15 year awards
Sandra and Dennise Piche
Jessica Foster of Prairie Thistle
Designs volunteers her expertise
and knowledge in the production
of the newsletters; you can view her
website @ www.prairiethistle.com
Rose Drebit
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 10
Gabrielli Family
Baby Lexie and Cooper
RMH staff was amazing. In the mornings
we would have coffee and a chat with
Joanne, Marg and Faye. In the evening we
would see Irene and find out how she was
doing. My mom and I enjoyed having the
opportunity to volunteer at the monster
trucks rally at Credit Union Centre with
Tammy selling 50/50 tickets.
We were lucky enough during our stay
to meet some wonderful families who
were going through similar things as us.
It definitely helped to talk to others in
the kitchen and get to know some of the
families. One family have been coming
to the house for 9 years! Another family
comes once a month for appointments. We
were lucky enough to see them twice while
we were there.
On M
Monday,
nd JJanuary
n r 14th
14th, 2013
2013, I h
had
d an
n
emergency C-section at Royal University
Hospital. It was eight weeks before my
due date of March 8th. At the gestational
age of 32 weeks my twin babies, a boy
and girl, were immediately brought to the
NICU. Lexie was born at 2 lbs. 9 oz. and
Cooper was born at 4 lbs. 7 oz. Lexie’s
water broke on Sunday. Cooper was lying
on top of Lexie in the womb and went into
respiratory distress. Cooper was intubated
the first day he was in the NICU. Lexie
also had mild respiratory distress and was
considered an IUGR baby (intrauterine
growth restricted). We were told by the
NICU doctors and nurses that they would
have to stay in the hospital until they were
at least 35-36 weeks gestational age. Over
the course of their stay they would have
to learn to feed, grow and maintain their
temperature.
After
Aft r discovering
di
rin the
th twins
t in would
ld be
b
in the hospital for at least the following
three weeks we had to determine where
to stay while in the city. While I was still
in the hospital, a social worker suggested
my husband, Bryon and I try and stay
at the Ronald McDonald House. She
graciously called and organized getting us
a room. We were lucky enough to have a
room directly after I was released from the
hospital.
On the Friday we checked into the Ronald
McDonald House and were welcomed by
Marcelline, Linda, Marg, Faye and Tammy.
Linda gave us the house tour and showed
us our room. Bryon and I were stunned
by how wonderful the house looked. Our
room had bunk beds, another bed, two lazy
boys, a television and a sink.
At the Ronald McDonald House we began
to feel like we were part of a family. The
Seven weeks later, on Sunday, March 3rd,
Lexie was finally released from the hospital.
Cooper had just been released four days
prior. Throughout our time in the NICU
we thought we were going home many
times but the twins suffered some setbacks.
Lexie had a perforated intestine. Cooper
got a urinary tract infection. They both
had blood in their stools which led to the
discovery that they were allergic to cow
protein.
The Ronald McDonald House was the
“rock” that held us together during the
seven week roller coaster. We could always
count on being five minutes away from the
hospital, being able to go back to the house,
eat delicious homemade cookies, and to
feel like we were at our home (away from
home). Thank you to everyone who makes
the Ronald McDonald House a special
place where families can feel at home. The
staff, volunteers and people who donate
have made a difference in our life.
With Love Melissa and Bryan
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 11
OUR THANKS for your compassion, generosity and commitment
Through Your Support of our Annual Newsletter RMHS is able to raise significant funds for the House.
Thanks to All of You that so generously donate. You raised over $100,952.00 last year!!
House Events/Third Party Fundraising
Media Fashion Show
Our 20th Annual Fashion Show held on November 7th, 2012
raised $39,630 for the House from the support of those in
attendance; the models; media; volunteers and Sponsors . . .
Platinum
Bayer CropScience ~ Cameco ~ McCafe’ McDonald’s
Gold
Cargill ~ ICR Commercial Real Estate ~ Merlin Ford
Lincoln ISO 9001
Silver
SaskTel ~ Saskatoon Fastprint ~ Sheraton Cavalier Hotel ~
WestJet
McDonald’s
Proceeds from the Saskatoon and Regina McDonald coin
boxes of $37,800 were collected for the House from January
thru to October of 2013. Prince Albert McDonald’s coin
boxes collected $6,680 and Swift Current McDonald’s coin
boxes collected $780 ~ RMHC Canada coin box collected
$10,105
Thanks to you, We're helping
keep families together
when they need it most
Midtown Plaza Annual Gift
Wrap
Christmas Annual Event held in
December at Midtown Plaza. 2012
Gift Wrap generated $19,650 for the
House. Since 1991, the total raised to date is over $148,650
25th Anniversary Celebration of CUC
In February, John Brodsky of the Saskatoon Blades organization
and Mark Lane, CEO, Affinity Credit Union presented 1/3
of the proceeds from the 50-50 draw at the 25th Anniversary
celebration of CUC; courtesy of Saskatchewan Credit Unions,
Credit Union Centre and the Saskatoon Blades.
Thanks to your
generous support,
we raised $130,000
for Ronald McDonald
House Saskatchewan.
Motorsports Spectacular
©2013 McDonald’s
Motorsports Spectacular Presented by Engine Shield Metal
Treatment held February 13th, 14th and 15th at Credit Union
Central roared in with $13,525 ; the proceeds to RMHS from
the daily 50/50 raffles. Families and volunteers helped sell
tickets at the event.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 12
Maximum Training for the Trucking Industry
Golf Tournament/rainy, cold, windy day in June
Wise words from Earl
Driedger, organizer of
the golf tournament
“Today, as I sat, sad and
lonely staring at the rain,
a voice came to me from
afar. It said “Cheer Up, things could be worse!” and I thought
about it . . . . We had survived the longest winter in SK history,
we live in the most prosperous city in North America, we
have survived the recession so far, my children and family are
healthy; and through rain and wind we will golf for RMHS for
the 13th Annual Whack Truck Golf Tourney. With the help of
rain gear and shrink wrap the tourney raised $11,000
Teresa Thompson
donated to the House.
Teresa Thompson with
her 3 beautiful children,
Keatan 5, Sage 2 and baby
Paisley 9 mos; brought
3 bags of toys for the
children in the House.
Keaton had celebrated his
5th birthday and all the
gifts he had received were
McCannell Financial Group Ltd
The 28th Annual Ladies Golf Classic
Held July 8th and 9th the Classic raised $51,432 for the
House. Our thanks to the golfers, donors, patrons, and
volunteers . . . .
Presenting Sponsor
Dakota Dunes Casino
Opening Brunch/Banquet Sponsor
Rick & Laurie Hopkinson
Breakfast and Lunch
RedHead Equipment Ltd
Cart
Coronary Artery Rehabilitation Group
Hole Sponsors
Agrium ~ Braid Flooring & Window Fashions ~ BHP
Billiton Canada Ltd ~ Business Furnishings ~ Chianti Café
& Restaurant ~ Coca Cola Ltd ~ March Schaffel Architects
~ McDonald’s Restaurants – Regina & Saskatoon ~ Mega
Group/Brand Source ~ Sask Mutual Insurance ~ Saskatoon
Fastprint ~ Saskatoon Golf & Country Club ~ Saskatoon
Media Group ~ Seventy-Seven Signs ~ Shaughnessy
Electric Inc ~ The Co-Operators ~ The Kilduff Wealth
Advisory Group ~ The Star Phoenix ~
Silent Auction Flights
WestJet ~ Mega Group
North Rim 2nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament
North Rim has chosen RMHS as their Charity of Choice
hosting the 2nd Annual Charity
Golf Tournament held August
13th at the Saskatoon Golf and
Country Club. Surpassing last
year’s proceeds of $16,500 with
the proceeds being $19,000 this year.
hosted the first Donald Fore Ronald Golf Tournament on July
25th raising $7,000. McCannell family and staff toured the
House and presented proceeds to Tammy Forrester, Executive
Director. Huge thank you for this fundraiser and the generosity
of the McCannell Financial Group
Saskatoon Corporate Challenge
The
Saskatoon
C o r p o r a t e
Challenge
and
Thirty6 Events is
extremely pleased
to
announce
our donation of
$25,500.00 to the
Ronald McDonald
House
of
Saskatchewan on behalf of the Saskatoon business community.
This money will be used to purchase equipment for the new
fitness center that will be built as part of the addition to the
Ronald McDonald House that is underway. Each year the
winning team of the Saskatoon Corporate Challenge gets to
select the charity where all money raised will be donated to the
following year. Stantec won the Corporate Challenge in 2012
and selected the Ronald McDonald House of Saskatchewan in
2013.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 13
27
rooms
left!
Give a family the gift of comfort
this year through our Adopt-ARoom program. Your annual gift
of $10,000 for three years will
provide a cozy room for a deserving
Saskatchewan family, allowing
them to stay together at a time
when no family should be apart.
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 14
Mark Your Calendars!
Coffee Break
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www.facebook.com
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Facebook is a social networking
website that allows users to
become fans of organizations and
connect with them through
sharing stories and photos.
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“Ronald McDonald House
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Gifts
“In honour of” gifts recognize or celebrate special occasions of individuals, family,
and friends, while “memorial” gifts are made in lasting memory of loved ones. Ronald
d
McDonald House Saskatchewan thanks those family members and friends who have
paid tribute to special individuals.
Over the years, the House has been the grateful beneficiary of Bequests and In Memory Of
donations. Now we are also able to accept gifts of publically traded securities, and life insurance
policies, your professional advisor can tell you about the associated tax and legal advantages.
In Honour of
Tyler Puetz and Family
John and Tillie
Jessica Calder
Florence Cathcart Symenuk
Leah Heintz and Corey Dick
Maria Dressler
Hunter Drohomereski
Don and Norma Eley
Ottenbreit Family
Donovan Fraser
Jordyn Fry
Thomas Gallipeau
Baby Cole Gilbert Henning
Shirley Gould
William and Diane Gow
St. Paul’s Hospital
Dorothy Jackson
PINK Hard Hat Week - Jansen Discovery
Lodge Team
Randie Kappelers
Arden Kliewer
Jack and Fern Lloyd
Linda Loessin
TCU Wealth Management Team
Byron and Audrey Moore
Kayla Smith’s Pappy and Grandma
Shyanne Parsons
Midtown Plaza/Primaris Management
Jim and Penny Rogers
Janelle and Christopher Samoila Wedding
Don and Hazel Smith
Isabella Stewart Wallace
Jason Sturgeon
Darren and Rose Sweeney
Lucky the unforgettable girl
Rick Thibault
Keatan Thompson
All Clients of Troy Nagy CIBC
Sara Umana
Armstead Vukman Wedding
Spencer and Taylor’s Wedding
Margaret White
Bobby and Heather Williston Wedding
Koby and Mya Zimmerman
In Memory of
John Affleck
Derek Andrusiak
Jenny Armstrong
Fred Avery
Tom Bacon
Pearl Ballan
Wilfred Black
Estate of Roy Blanchard
Ralph Blondin
Douglas Booth
Dorothy Browne
Ian Buckwold
Marie Bussiere
Beryl Chesepuschak
Eleanore Chrispen
George Claggett
Alan Corrigall
Derek Crellin
Anne Crook
Alan Early
John Edel
George Eiwanger
Betty Empey
Maxine Ferguson
Marcel Ferland
Nicole (Niki) Flahr
Jason Froshaug
Dr. Ka-Iu Fung
Geoffrey Gilchrist
Abby Goddard
Derek Michael Gray
Murray Green
Mr. Grimson
Virginia Hamm
Cory Heffernan
Jack Heffernan
Marvin Henning
Mary Heskett
Carol Hickson
Baby Esther Rose
Hodgson
Elmer Hoyseth
Lillian Hromek
Robert Hundeby
Lynette Jackson
Elsie Johns
John Kachur
Dave Kell
Rose Kennedy
Jessica Kihn
Elyssa KristjansonLunnin
Ardit Kurteshi
C. Peter Lach
Jenny Lang
John Leach
Emily Legebokoff
Josephine Liska
Ailsa Long
Anna May Lyall Gray
Grant J Marcoux
Miles McClymont
Ronald McDonald
Robert McDonald
Audrey McIntosh
Iain McKinlay
Mary McPherson
Stuart McTavish
William Walter Meakin
Phyllis Metcalf
Russ and Linnea Moen
Baby Tristan Nasby
Eleanor Newton
Marcel Perreaux
Rex Peters
Vern Pfeifer
Stan Pierce
Baby Samuel Pompu
Mavis Prystai
Tyler James Puetz
Irene Randall
Sheldon Remenda
Raelene Robson
Margaret Rosenberg
Nancy Rupert
Riley Sack
Brent Scheler
Estate of Loreen
Schmidt
Janis Lynn Smith
Dorothy Stuart
Orvil Swayze
Beatrice Thorpe
John and Vicki Tluchak
Anne Toth
Johanna Van Lambalgen
Melvin Vanmeter
Ernest Vestre
Jack Walsh
Joyce Warner
Robert Whitehead Jr.
Sandra Wickstrom
Doris Wickstrom
Twyla Widdifield
Becky Wiebe
Cameron Williamson
Anne Yasinski
Irvin Yauck
Gwen Yauck
Mae (Cora) Young
Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan — the Cookie Sheet — Fall 2013 | 16