The RMHC Toronto Family Room in Markham Stouffville Hospital is celebrating its fifth anniversary and a newly renovated space.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto Family Room at Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH) is celebrating five years of supporting families with seriously ill children.

Danielle Giokas, Coordinator of the Family Room, says the anniversary is a significant milestone.

“It’s a reminder of the families who have come through our door over the past five years. Each family we serve has left a mark not only within the Family Room, but also within the hearts of our volunteers and staff.”

Since opening in 2013, close to 2,100 families have found rest and respite in the space.

The Family Room is located on the fourth floor to support family members of children being treated in the Paediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Care units at the hospital.

“It was comforting to know I could go take a quick shower and make myself a cup of tea. My son was on a feeding tube, so it also gave me a place to grab something to eat and not have to worry about eating in front of him,” says one mother who used the Family Room during her son’s hospitalization.

This week, the Family Room at MSH is hosting a gathering for families, staff, volunteers, donors and community supporters to celebrate. It will also be an opportunity for them to see the newly renovated room, which includes new flooring and shelving.

Sandy Yeung, Assistant Manager of RMHC Toronto Family Rooms, says it’s the volunteers who make the Family Room particularly special.

“There are lots of volunteers who have been here for the full five years. The Family Room has such a strong volunteer team and I really treasure how they support our families.”

The Family Room is one of seven operated by RMHC Toronto in five hospitals across the GTA and in Sudbury.

Learn more about the RMHC Toronto Family Room at Markham Stouffville Hospital.