Meals that heal

July 20th, 2021 | News

I have always believed that volunteering is important and have volunteered for many things throughout my life, but I have found a home at the Ronald McDonald House in Madison. For more than a decade, I have made dinner for the families staying at the House. I have seen and experienced how a homecooked meal can provide comfort and directly help parents.

When my daughter was born at just 2 pounds 3 ounces, she spent two months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Because of where we lived and our jobs, we could not be with her all the time. There were volunteers that would rock her when I could not be there. I never met them, but I remember thinking how thankful I was that they were there when I could not be. When I was at the hospital, I was comforted by the food that was provided by volunteers. I knew that I would give back in this way someday.

The Ronald McDonald House is a great place to volunteer. The staff is always welcoming and appreciative. They make it easy and enjoyable to volunteer.

Volunteering keeps a person grounded and it helps me remember how blessed I am. My daughter, Brooke, just celebrated her 32^nd birthday. I believe we should try making the world a better place while we are here.

– Lynn Deans, Meal Group Volunteer