Ariyah's story

Meet Ariyah, a bubbly, fun-loving 16-month-old from Moree. Since she was just five months old, Ariyah's feeding issue has baffled her doctors and specialists.  

Unable to eat solids or drink orally, Ariyah is nasogastric (NG) fed, meaning she receives all her daily nutrients through a thin, flexible tube threaded through her nose to her stomach. 

Her condition requires her, along with her mum, Alex, and little sister, Willow, to travel far from home regularly for medical treatment and appointments.  

“I don’t know how I would've managed being so far away from home without family support -  RMHC made it possible for me to have a place to stay so we could be there for Ariyah.” 

“From the moment we arrived at Ronald McDonald House it felt like home.”

“Whatever we needed, the staff and volunteers made it possible without any hesitation. They were there when we needed a chat after a long stressful day at the hospital; staying up to make sure we were ok before they went to bed for the night; checking that we had eaten dinner and were fed; and making sure we felt cared for and supported while staying at the house.”  

Our Ronald McDonald Houses are more than just a place to sleep. They're a home away from home. A place where families, like Ariyah's, can find strength and hope together. 

"Both Ariyah and her sister, Willow, are the happiest, bubbliest babies who never stop smiling even when times are tough. We are truly so thankful to RMHC for being there for our family.” 

This September, individuals, schools, gyms, and businesses will be joining forces, taking part in Ride for Sick Kids and raising crucial funds to help us to keep our doors open, so we can support hundreds of other families, just like Ariyah's. 
 
Will you jump on a bike to help?