'There are dark days' - Waterford family spend 96 days in Dublin with daughter in hospital
The Bolger family from Waterford helped to launch the 'Thanks A Million' campaign for Ronald McDonald House
A Waterford family has helped launch a Ronald McDonald House's Thanks a Million campaign which hopes to raise €1 million to build a new 52-bedroom Ronald McDonald House at the New Children’s Hospital.
For 20 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Ireland has been a beacon of hope for families with seriously ill children, providing a "home-away-from-home" in Crumlin while their little ones receive treatment.
The impact of RMHC Ireland is best seen through the stories of families who have stayed at The Ronald McDonald House, like the Bolger family from Co Waterford. During their 96-night stay, they found comfort and support while their daughter Poppy received care in Crumlin.
Poppy’s mum, Elaine Sarah Bolger, said: “We never knew we were going to be gone that long. It was a lot longer than we expected, and we weren’t prepared. Moving from Waterford to Crumlin would have been impossible for us without the House. There are a lot of dark days in hospital and so many times you get shocking news that really shakes you. But coming over to the Ronald McDonald House you just feel safe.”
The "Thanks a Million" campaign is calling on people across Ireland—individuals, businesses and communities to come together and make a difference. Every contribution, big or small, will help RMHC Ireland build a new home for families facing one of the toughest times of their lives.
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Joe Kenny, Chief Executive Officer of RMHC Ireland said: “This new House is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a lifeline for families with seriously ill children who must travel to Dublin for treatment. By staying with us, families save over €300 per night on accommodation, meals and laundry. But more importantly, they can remain close to their child, providing the love and support that means everything during such a difficult time. We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received over the past 20 years and now we need your help once again.”
No matter where you're from—Cork, Galway, Donegal, or beyond—this House is for every child and every family in Ireland. To help make this house a reality, donate today.