Summer Kids Club at Ronald McDonald House Offers Normalcy for Children with Cancer

A Haven for Families

• 🏠 The Ronald McDonald House Charities in New Hyde Park serves as a temporary home for families whose children are undergoing treatment at Cohen Children's Medical Center.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The Zelaga family, originally from Lithuania, found refuge here while their 12-year-old daughter, Roa, received treatment for a rare syndrome, involving numerous surgeries.

The Summer Kids Club Initiative

• ☀️ A new Summer Kids Club has been established to provide children with a much-needed escape from the stresses of hospital life.
• 🎯 The club aims to offer a sense of normalcy by engaging children in fun activities.

Volunteer Efforts and Impact

• 🧑‍🎨 Sydney Miller, a neuroscience major, has volunteered all summer, dedicating her time to making the experience as enjoyable as possible for the children.
• 🍪 Activities include baking sugar cookies, coloring, and building with Lego.
• 💖 Nearly 100 families have utilized the Ronald McDonald House this summer, with 50 children participating in the camp.
• ✨ Volunteers express deep satisfaction in being able to help the kids and provide comfort during difficult times.

Looking Ahead

• ✈️ The Zelaga family is preparing to return home but has a follow-up appointment scheduled for next year, with the Ronald McDonald House ready to welcome them back.
• 🌟 The Ronald McDonald House on Long Island continues to offer support and a welcoming environment for families facing medical challenges.