This is the ApelElain fundraising page for Ronald Mcdonald House Bristol.
Elain James was antenatally diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease. Following a short period of stability at home Elain's condition suddenly deteriorated in June 2010 and before we knew it Elain was undergoing her first heart surgery at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. Complications following surgery meant that Elain was a patient at the hospital for a total of 14 weeks
As we live 3 hours away from Bristol we had no idea where we were going to stay or how much it would cost us. On arrival to the hospital we were told about the Ronald McDonald House which provides accommodation to families free of charge for the duration of the time you are in hospital. We were given a room within hours of arriving and couldn't quite believe how lucky we were. The rooms are all ensuite with tv/dvd and internet access. There is also a large communal lounge, garden and 3 kitchens.
Without the RMH Bristol we would have either had to spend thousands on hotel accommodation or travel to and from Cardiff daily to stay with family. Both options were not financially viable. The house also provided an essential area for us to retreat to for some rest and relaxation away from the stressful hospital environment.
For now Elain is home and stable but will need more surgery in the near future. We therefore know it won't be long before we will be asking Ronald McDonald House for a room again.
The money raised for the Ronald McDonal House Bristol through ApelElain will directly benefit other families as the house is run entirely on charitable donations.
Please give all you can to help support this essential home from home for families.
Many Many Thanks
Bridget, Gareth + Elain James To read more about ApelElain and all the fundraising activities taking place in 2011 please visit www.apelelain.com
