We have so many generous people step up during the holidays and bring items to the House for our Sub-for-Sant program. As the following letter shows, it makes the season merrier during a time when it is so difficult to be away from home, friends and family.

January 10, 2010

Dear Ronald McDonald House Secret Santa,

I want to thank you for what you did for our family on Christmas. The gifts that were left on our doorstep were amazing. It was as if you knew each of us personally, they were so perfect. We took the gifts to the hospital and opened them with my son who is a patient. It was a very happy day for all! We had one gift for each of our children before we found the presents from you. Everyone was so excited!

My husband and I were surprised to find gifts addressed to us also. I was delighted to get soem "girly" presents (makeup, perfume and a beautiful sweater). Coming from a family of all boys, that doesn't happen very often. Everyone received things they need as well as some very fun toys. You should have seen the hospital room  all full of wrapping paper and toys and smiling little boys. There was a remote control Hummer cruising around on the floor  and a tractor driving all over...even a basketball being bounced around. It was glorious chaos. We had ot make room for the nurses to come in and it almost seemed more like we were at home than at a hospital.

I just can't tell you enough how much it meant to me to see them all happy. I', not sure if we will have another Christmas with all of us together so this was very sepcial. We enjoyed every minute. The best gift that was given was the happiness we shared together as we opened the presents. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Sincerely,

Emily Leonard

Idaho Falls, Idaho

Staying at the Long Term RMHC Facility

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Read more Family Stories:

"I don't think he would be alive right now if it weren't for his therapy. I thank God every day for this House." Beth Carlson from Jackson, WY

William and his mother spent 233 days at the House. Read their story.