A Special Saturday Night

They say, “Home is where the Heart is,” and at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in Chicago, hearts are not only evident in their logo but found in much of the artwork and murals displayed around the building. For those families residing at the Ronald McDonald House, their hearts are fragile, hopeful, full of optimism and love as this is their “home away from home” while their child is being treated for a severe illness.

When the idea of doing a mitzvah project at the RMH came to light back in October, it immediately brought back memories of my late first cousin Justin and his journey at St. Jude’s hospital being treated for Ewing’s Sarcoma. My Uncle, Aunt, and Justin’s brothers would travel from Michigan to Tennessee and stay at the Ronald McDonald House near St. Jude’s while Justin was being treated. It was their home away from home and a place of comfort while down there.

Spending a Saturday night in downtown Chicago with fellow Jacob Duman ECC parents, representing the wonderful community of JCC Chicago, was heartwarming. We are very grateful that we served over 80 guests who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House with donations from the community, Portillo’s, Lou Malnati’s and Whole Foods.

It takes a village to raise a family and when you are able to be a part of someone else’s village…it is priceless.