The Speed Family from Tauranga
The Speed Family from Tauranga

The Speeds

Our families are inspirational and the Speed family from Tauranga is no exception. Here Mum Leesa shares with you her experience with Ronald McDonald House, and what motivated them to raise over $17K to continue our services.

The arrival of twins and shock complications

“In November 2008 I gave birth to beautiful twins – Charlotte and Ryan. This joyous occasion soon turned into one of anxiety as we learnt that Ryan was experiencing heart difficulties. This brought us to a place we had only heard of but knew nothing about - Ronald McDonald House Auckland.

Far from home and under the most distressing circumstances, we arrived at a wonderful House with all the facilities we could need. It soon became our family home for the next 9 weeks.

The essential sanctuary of the House

In contrast to the hospital, RMHA provided my family with some sense of normality. Living alongside other families in the same boat was also reassuring. But it’s that peace of mind which you just can’t quantify; being able to sleep at night because you know you are only minutes from your child in hospital.

Staff at the House were very welcoming of family and friends. and our parents drove up to Auckland from Tauranga and Hamilton most weekends to be with us and to help look after our three year old son, Hayden. Being all together as a family was what got us through those months.

From loss to a resolve to help other families

After successful open heart surgery at only 7 days old and a 10 week stay at Starship, Ryan sadly passed away 6 weeks after returning home at just under 4 months of age. My family’s journey didn’t have a happy ending but it has only made our resolve to give back to RMHA even stronger.

It’s an amazing charity and Mike and I wanted to give back in any way we could. We set about raising awareness in our local community and organised two fishing tournaments raising over $17K of much needed funds for the House. We’ve also revisited the House a couple of times to cook meals for the families– we know how much the little things like having a meal cooked for you is appreciated when preparing meals is the last thing you feel like doing.

You just don’t know when you’re going to need a place like RMHA and we take comfort from knowing that we are supporting families who find themselves in the same situation as we did".

Ronald McDonald House Auckland is a charitable trust. We are able to keep families together through the actions of House friends like the Speed’s. To find out more see our fundraising page. With your help we will continue to keep families stronger together.
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