Some of the Medica Ireland team recently dedicated their time and culinary skills to support families staying at the Ronald McDonald House at CHI Crumlin. Since its opening in November 2004, the Ronald McDonald House has supported over 5,000 families, providing them with a place to stay close to their loved ones undergoing treatment and inpatient care.
As part of the Cook for Families Charity Program, Medica Ireland volunteers planned, prepared, and served meals for families, giving them a much-needed break from the stresses of cooking or expense of dining out. These meals allow families to eat together, fostering a sense of normalcy while staying close to their babies, children, and teens receiving care at the hospital. Everyone on the team had a specific role, working together to create a warm and comforting meal for the families.
For Managing Director Caroline Byrne, the experience carried a deeply personal connection. She reflected on her ties to CHI Crumlin, where her daughter Seren, born in November 2012, spent 12 short but precious weeks of life under the care of the skilled and compassionate PICU teams. “I remember all too well the experience of living day to day in the hospital and the beautiful moments of respite thanks to the kindness of staff and strangers,” Caroline shared.
During the volunteer effort, the Medica Ireland team served a hearty feast, aiming to make a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families staying at the house. “It was such a lovely experience to know we’ve improved their day even a little,” Caroline said. “Listening to the stories of these little warriors and their battles was both humbling and inspiring. Their strength left a lasting impression on all of us.”
The Cook for Families Charity Program is one of the many ways the Ronald McDonald House fosters a sense of community and provides much-needed relief for families during incredibly challenging times.
Well done to the Medica Ireland team for all their efforts: Caroline Byrne, Fiona Byrne, Grace Gannon, Nuala McCarthy, Kamila Jelinkova, and Lynsey Jones.
