WINTER 2018 / NEWSLETTER #63

Happy Birthday to our Lincoln the Lion… Appealing House! look at him now! success! Page 4 Page 5 Page 6

Our Christchurch House has become a place of solace and friendship for the Hall family during their 152 night BONNIE’S PIT CREW (and counting) stay.

“It’s like a nightmare but you can’t wake up.” The Hall family, including one-year-old baby sister Frieda, were immediately flown to Christchurch where Bonnie began a very In October last year, the Hall family returned home to from aggressive treatment regime including a stem cell transplant, to fight our Christchurch House after they were told their 3-year-old daughter the cancer. Bonnie’s cancer was in complete remission with an excellent prognosis. Bonnie was diagnosed with Wilms tumour, a type of cancer that starts However in January this year, parents Jane and Pat returned to in the kidneys, however even doctors were shocked by its aggressive Wellington Hospital and received the news no parent ever wants to return to Bonnie’s tiny body. hear – Bonnie’s cancer was back, with new tumours found throughout Managing Bonnie’s busy hospital schedule and care for baby Frieda has her abdomen and lungs. been overwhelming for Pat and Jane, however these strong parents say “She was so sick,” recalls Jane. their solace is being able to stay in our Christchurch House. “When you’re told something like that, it is like an out of body experience “At first we were grateful that all the infrastructure was there – the kitchen, – it didn’t really register. All we knew was that we wanted to be back in the lounge, the laundry and the play area. Christchurch and go back to our friends at Ronald McDonald House.” ...continued on page 2

Keeping families close™  www.rmhsi.org.nz |  RonaldMcDonaldHouseSouthIsland |  RMHSI Top: A mother’s love: Nothing gives three-year-old Bonnie more delight than playing with her mummy.

Middle: ‘Bonnie’s Pit Crew’: Grandparents Anne and Ross have been with the Halls every step of the way, often taking care of one-year-old Frieda so parents Jane and Pat can be with Bonnie in hospital.

Bottom: 3. Delightful Frieda: Baby Frieda celebrated her first birthday at Ronald McDonald House South Island, and has many House ‘aunties’ who love being around this gorgeous wee bub.

...continued from page 1

“But it is the support we have received from staff, volunteers and the other families which has been incredible – you’ve all become part of our family.”

Our Christchurch House has also become a home for grandparents Ross and Anne, who have been there to support their daughter Jane and son-in-law Pat.

Jane says the value of having her parents in an adjoining room has been immeasurable.

Ross and Anne have become our resident house grandparents – emptying dishwashers, taking out the rubbish and making cups of tea for mums and dads.

Anne says being able to stay at the Christchurch House has meant she isn’t worrying about her family far away from home.

“When your grandchild is sick, you’re not just worried about your grandchild, you’re worried about your children and how they are coping. So being able to stay at the House and be close to them takes all that worry away.”

Ross says supporting Ronald McDonald House South Island is a ‘no brainer’.

“Children are our legacy. Bonnie is only three and has the rest of her life ahead of her, that’s why it is so important to support facilities like this, so we can give kids the best start in life.”

Baby Frieda has grown up in our Christchurch House, cared for not only by her grandparents, but the many ‘aunties’ of the House who adore her chubby cheeks and infectious smile – she even celebrated her first birthday at the House. Thank you to CM Photography for After spending 152 nights (and counting) in our generously donating this Christchurch House, the Hall family continues shoot to the Hall family. to take each day as it comes while Bonnie’s treatment continues.

Jane says our Christchurch House has enabled this family unit to be the best ‘pit crew’ little Bonnie could ask for.

FROM THE CHAIRMAN, PAUL DEAVOLL

With winter comes shorter days, colder nights, and snow in many parts of our South Island community.

But while the weather is cold outside, we continue to provide a warm and homely retreat for families with children in hospital. Simply, we give families with a hospitalised child what they need the most – each other. Recently, I was thrilled to be able to attend the inaugural Invercargill Supper Club, and feel incredibly thankful to know the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital, is surrounded by such a generous community.

I would also like to thank the hundreds of volunteers who took to the streets on Friday May 11 as part of our National Family Appeal. It is your involvement at these events which ensures our facilities will stay open this winter, and remain that way through the seasons. » House Happenings «

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1. “Try not to blend in when you were born to stand out!” 4. Our very own superstar, Afterhours Supervisor Jan! Check out Houseguest Cameron’s inspiring artwork. Our We love this shot of Jan in her element with Houseguests Christchurch House art room is a great place for distraction Don and his precious daughter Mio. Thanks to Avenues Magazine and creativity. for the gorgeous shot!

2. Happy Birthday Pippa! Instead of presents, Christchurch 5. Home-time hugs! We were thrilled to see Rueben and local Pippa asked her friends to take part in the Family Dinner his parents head home to Wellington after 104 nights in our Programme and celebrate her special day with our families. Christchurch House. We wish this family all the best for How cool is that! the future.

3. Strike a pose! Houseguest Harriet had loads of fun 6. Happy clicking! A huge thanks to the team at modelling our newly rebranded T-Shirts. Keep an eye out for TimeZoneOne for working tirelessly to get our new website this bright blue at your next community event! up and running! Visit www.rmhsi.org.nz to check out our latest events, merchandise and ways you can support us. Happy Birthday Ronald McDonald House!

PAGE 4 Linings #63 | PAGE Silver Since opening its doors on March 10 in 2003, After two subsequent expansions in 2004 and However, our doors were never closed. our Christchurch House has been more than 2010, the facility now accommodates families If there was no room onsite, we put families just a building, it has become a ‘home away in 26 rooms. up in a nearby motel room free of charge. from home’ for more than 7,000 families. The House suffered extensive damage in the We loved hosting our volunteers and Ronald McDonald House South Island Trust February 2011 earthquake, and was reduced supporters with a special birthday party in was formed in 1999 by a voluntary Board of to half its capacity for 18 months while repair March, to say thank you to each and every Trustees, who passionately fundraised along work was undertaken on the main wing. person who has ensured our doors remain with a number of founding partners, to open open today, tomorrow and into the future. the House in 2003 with 12 rooms.

Board of Trustees members Mark Abbott, Kipp Alexander and Our longest serving volunteers Elizabeth Ineson and Bill Graves long-time House supporter Jack Harris. cut our 15th Birthday Cake. Volunteer Spotlight – Afterhours WANT TO BECOME A SUPERSTAR VOLUNTEER LIKE Superstars MILLER AND TIM? We have volunteering opportunities in both Keeping our Christchurch House secure and Christchurch and Invercargill. the families safe is all in a night’s work for As Afterhours volunteers, Miller and Tim Visit www.rmhsi.org.nz young couple Tim and Miller. make sure the house runs smoothly from to find out more. 5pm to 8.30am. Tim and Miller are Afterhours Superstars, who regularly give up their Friday and Saturday “It seems intimidating and a lot of work, but it’s nights to look after the Christchurch House really not,” says Tim. and stay in our volunteer room. In the morning, they complete a few small “We look after the dinner programme tasks then hand over to the day staff. After in-house training, the pair began volunteers and make sure they have volunteering last year, and Miller says she everything they need. During the course of Miller says the role is hugely fulfilling, and was inspired by her family’s own experience the evening, we complete a number of tasks encourages others to give it a go. with the organisation. like securing the house, cleaning the kitchen “It’s really rewarding because we know we are and main living areas and looking after the “My family stayed in the House in 2008 and I able to make things a little bit easier for the phones. With two of us, it’s even easier." wanted to help others like RMHSI had helped families staying in the house. The House is a my family – I was happy to join Tim in giving The overnight volunteers have a room on the treasure to our community and we are grateful back to the community we love.” first floor and eat dinner with the families. to be a part of this, even in a small way.” » What's Going On « Down South The latest happenings from the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital PAGE 5 Linings #63 | PAGE Silver

‘Lincoln the Lion’ and his family spent 20 THEN & NOW nights in the Family Room at Southland Hospital. Lincoln the Lion Looking at two-year-old Lincoln today, you would not believe he weighed just over 4 pounds when he was born at 33 weeks.

But what he lacked in weight he made The first ever Invercargill Supper Club was a standout success. up for with noise. He came screaming into the world and was quickly nicknamed Lincoln the Lion for his big set of lungs.

First-time parents Grace and Simon Frisby were shocked by Lincoln’s early arrival – they still didn’t have their nursery ready, and they felt completely unprepared.

Two days after Lincoln was born, Grace recalls an amazing lady with blonde hair and bright eyes came up to her in the neo-natal unit.

“Are you Grace?” she said, “You’re coming to stay with me”, and that was the first time Grace met the one and only Helen from the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Southland Hospital.

Grace was familiar with the facilities and wonderful Helen, as she is the Communications Manager at SBS Bank, generous supporters of our Christchurch and Invercargill facilities. Southern charm and sensational food was on the menu at “To say Helen is amazing is an understatement. She’s kind, loving, caring Invercargill Supper Club. and she’s genuine – all the things, that as a new family with a premature baby, we needed,” says Grace. Grace says that is what truly makes the Family Room so special. Invercargill Supper Club “Yes, the comfy couches, amazing rooms, delicious food and endless supply of home baking help a lot, but there’s a feeling of safety, love, comfort and camaraderie within those walls. Where you know everyone – an incredible success! understands what you’re going through, where everyone’s got your back Southland generosity, stunning venues and sumptuous and where you all look after each other.” cuisine were on the menu at the first-ever Invercargill Supper After spending 20 nights in the Family Room, Grace and Simon were Club on Friday, April 6. thrilled to be able to take Lincoln the Lion home. The night began with bubbles at the Volkswagen The past two years have been a whirlwind for this family, who absolutely Showroom, before guests were whisked away cherish their very brave, bubbly and boisterous two-year-old. to 10 incredible dining locations across the city. Our sincere gratitude to the Frisby family for sharing their story at From Beersheba, The First Presbyterian Church, to Invercargill Supper Club 2018. live entertainment at Industry – the feedback we received from guests was sensational.

We raised a total of more than $28,000 – highlighting the generosity of this incredible community. Every cent raised will stay in Southland, and support families with free accommodation at the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital.

A huge thank you to the table buyers, guests, venues, chefs, auction donors and volunteers who made this event possible. We cannot wait to see what Supper Club 2019 will bring!

Lincoln turned two in April, and is an absolute delight for parents Simon and Grace. » Out & About « Take a peek at the latest good sorts who are busy holding amazing events to help our families! PAGE 6 Linings #63 | PAGE Silver

M Factor Fashion Show

Once again, the M Factor Fashion Show in April was a standout night of fun, fashion and fundraising, thanks to Maree Lucas and her incredible team.

Back at the Transitional Cathedral, the M Factor Fashion Show boasted an incredible line up of New Zealand’s best women’s, men’s and children’s fashion brands.

It was a privilege to have the Moore family from Cromwell bravely share their story to guests, as well as strut their stuff on the catwalk!

Our thanks go to M Factor Events, the designers, models, sponsors, auction donors and volunteers for making this event possible.

Ronald McDonald House Family Appeal 2018

At Ronald McDonald House South Island, we know that when a family has a child in hospital, being together matters.

That is why it was amazing to see more than 1,000 collectors hit the streets across the South Island on Friday May 11, and so many individuals donate to support families.

Ronald McDonald House South Island Fundraising Advisor and Appeal Coordinator Jemma Balmer say it was humbling to have over 60 schools and early childhood centres hold mufti days to raise funds as part of the Appeal, as well as many businesses who hosted buckets and held #FlashbackFriday retro dress up days in their workplace.

“It was incredible to see how many schools, community groups and businesses had a personal connection to our organisation and were willing to do anything to lend a hand.”

Special thanks must also go to our wonderful Area Coordinators and national partners McDonalds, Ray White and ASB.

Bring on 2019! Top Left: Former house guests Tugela and Lyndon with their son Jock in Timaru. Top Right: James Hargest Leo Club in Invercargill | Btm Left: The Tannery team having fun. Btm Right: Louise and Liz - Cashmere Rotary at Coffee Culture Cashmere.

This month-long campaign is in its third year, and our CEO Mandy Kennedy says it Host a Roast has become a popular way for supporters is back, and better to give back. than ever! “The Family Dinner Programme is a vital part of what we do at Ronald McDonald House This July, why not don your apron and invite South Island. It is a special time for families to the gang over for the perfect Roast? In relax, unwind, and connect with others while return for all your hard work in the kitchen, sharing a meal. ask each of your dinner guests to make a “That is why I think Host a Roast is so popular $20 donation and raise funds for Ronald – it is simple, easy, and a great chance to McDonald House South Island. catch up with friends over good food!”

This year we are aiming to raise $20,000, With heaps of great prizes up for grabs, what are you waiting for? which means we need more than 100 groups Visit www.hostaroast.kiwi to register today. to Host a Roast in July. MARK YOUR CALENDAR Events for 2018

JUNE PAGE 7 Linings #63 | PAGE Silver

ASB CHRISTCHURCH MARATHON

Sunday 3 June This year Ronald McDonald House is the charity of choice for the ASB Christchurch Marathon! Run on Room Sponsor Spotlight: behalf of the House at everydayhero.co.nz/event/ For Henry RUNChristchurch4RMHC We are so humbled to receive more than $12,000 for the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital from Justine and Tim McRae and the crew behind the JUNE Southland Monster Garage Sale which was held earlier this year. CHRISTCHURCH SUPPER CLUB Justine was inspired to fundraise after spending time with us while Friday 15 June her beautiful son Henry was being cared for in Southland Hospital. The highlight of your social calendar! The McRae family are now the proud sponsors of Room 3 at the Christchurch’s restaurants, unique venues and chefs collaborate Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital. with us to create a mystery dining experience. Tables for 2018 have sold out, please email [email protected] to join the 2019 wait list.

JULY House Heroes – HOST-A-ROAST The month of July Welcome winter in the greatest way! Coffee Culture Invite your family or friends over for a roast in July. Since 2005, Coffee Culture have been long- Every $20 donation your guests make will go directly to helping us keep families close. time supporters of the House, generously donating vouchers, endless amounts “We firmly believe of much-needed coffee and lending a that when it comes hand during our Annual Appeal. NOVEMBER to life, and the One of Coffee Culture’s owners, Sacha QUEENSTOWN SUPPER CLUB challenges that Coburn says she knows from personal happen, we’re all in experience the importance of having Friday 2 November this together.” family support during medical treatment. The highlight of your social calendar! “As a team we couldn’t imagine how hard Queenstown’s restaurants, unique venues and chefs collaborate with us to create a mystery dining experience. Book your table it would be if you had sick kids and couldn’t of eight now to avoid missing out on this spectacular evening. be near them. We also know how important Email [email protected] great coffee is! It’s the elixir of life and has amazing properties to help people keep going and going, so supplying coffee seemed like a great way we could show our support.” NOVEMBER The team at Coffee Culture are proud to be part of the support CUP DAY PINS network at the House and we are so grateful to have them as supporters. Sacha says, “Any business that wants to support Ronald Tuesday 13 November McDonald House South Island should do it. Whenever there’s an Spend a few hours with the generous punters, selling Cup Day opportunity to lighten the load for others in need it’s a real privilege pins to raise money for the House. It’s a great job to do with to be involved. The buzz you get from giving is amazing.” friends, and volunteering includes free entry for the day at the Races! Email: [email protected]

DECEMBER

A DAY AT THE POLO

Saturday 8 December Port Hills Polo Club Watch heart-stopping polo matches while enjoying a marquee luncheon and a complimentary drink in the summer setting of a garden marquee. This year features international polo matches between New Zealand and Australia! This event sells out every year – be in quick to secure your table of ten. Email [email protected] » Our Families «

Families from all over New Zealand stay at our facilities while their children receive hospital care for many different reasons. Sometimes they stay for one or two nights, but some families can be with us for many months. Here are our statistics for the first quarter of 2018. We have cared for 224 families who accounted for 7,379 bed nights or heads on pillows.

Our most common diagnoses are Our families come from

% 20% Neonatal 3% Orthopaedic West Coast 28 Canterbury % 20% Surgical 2% Renal, Liver & Kidney 23 % Southland 15 11% Oncology 2% Accident Otago % 13 10% Medical 2% Neurological Marlborough 6%

9% Antenatal 2% Cardiac Nelson 5% % % 6 Psychological 2 Ophthalmology Queenstown & Lakes 4%

5% Ear, Nose and Throat 2% Respiratory Wellington 3%

3% Gastrointestinal 1% Cystic Fibrosis Bay of Plenty 1% Tasman Region 1% Auckland 1%

NEW & RENEWED ROOM SPONSORS: FAMILY ROOM, SOUTHLAND HOSPITAL:

JOHN AND JOY DOAK DIANA SMITH MCRAE FAMILY

OUR PEOPLE: OUR SUPPORTERS:

BOARD OF TRUSTEES DIRECTOR OF FUNDRAISING Paul Deavoll (Chairman) HOUSE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Kipp Alexander (Treasurer) Zucchi Leonard Devon Hamilton Designed by Bruce Davis TimeZoneOne FRONT OF HOUSE / ACCOUNTS Mark Abbot Ph: 03 366 5229 ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATOR Janetta Skiba www.timezoneone.com Megan Eden Bridget Mather Stuart Leck Debbie Rusbridge Chris Youngman HOUSEKEEPING Mary-Ann Roberts Dave Whalley Kathy Oakes Printed by Spectrum Print Jock Muir PARTNERSHIP AND Irene Ernst Ph: 03 365 0946 EVENT MANAGER www.spectrumprint.co.nz AFTER HOURS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Robyn Medlicott Rebecca Biggs SUPERVISOR Maddy Surie MARKETING AND Jan Nottingham Our sincere thanks to Pub Charity COMMUNICATIONS FAMILY ROOM for their generous grant which CHIEF EXECUTIVE ADVISOR SUPERVISOR funded the design and production Mandy Kennedy Phillipa Webb Helen Walker of this newsletter. FUNDRAISING ADVISOR Jemma Balmer

Ronald McDonald House South Island Ronald McDonald Family Room, Southland Hospital 33 Cashel Street (Cnr Cashel and Montreal Streets) | Christchurch 8140 Kew Road | Invercargill 9840  03 377 3311  03 377 3414  [email protected]  03 214 8910  [email protected]