A Wonderful Family Reunion
Dazelle is one determined little girl backed by a big family and a strong culture.
In December 2020, then 13 year old Dazelle was suddenly diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. Travelling far from home with her mum Dinah to receive the vital treatment she needed. Her dad, Josh remained behind to take care of her 5 siblings. Due to this, as well as COVID-19 lockdowns, it was unclear just when they would all see each other again.
Fortunately however, hope can always be found at Ronald McDonald House, and it is here that a family reunion was made possible.
“Ronald McDonald House is our home,” said Josh. “When I walked through the doors for the first time I felt warmth and I felt love.”
After 6 months apart Dazelle and Dinah were able to be reunited with their whole family and Josh couldn’t have been more relieved.
“We could now give each other more support,” said Josh. “The House kept us together. The Learning Program supported Dazelle when she was feeling up to it. We celebrated Christmas, as we arrived on Boxing Day, and there was a big sack full of toys waiting for the kids. We celebrated Dazelle’s 14th birthday as well.”
“It honestly makes you feel like you are home because you can be together...and that makes a huge difference. If it wasn’t for donors it wouldn’t be possible for us to be together. We thank you from the bottom of our heart.”
The gathering of my family (Yorta Yorta)
By Josh D
This painting depicts the story of our family where we are gathered at the waterhole while our ancestors watch over and guide us, and our totem the long neck turtle is with us. To our people, the waterhole brings new life and is the meeting point where all will meet. For us, Ronald McDonald Newcastle has been the families meeting point to eat, sleep and feel loved to grow and recover into good health.
Thank you all at Ronald McDonald House, without you all this journey would not be possible! All our love from my mob to yours.
- Josh, Dinah and the kids.
