Over 500 friends, families, volunteers, and staff were welcomed to the Palace Theater on Thursday, October 16 for an exclusive showing of Audrey’s Children, the inspiring story of renowned pediatric oncologist Dr. Audrey Evans, whose bold vision helped create the very first Ronald McDonald House.
“It is truly remarkable to look out on this crowd of more than 500 faces and know that each one of you has played a part in our local Ronald McDonald House history,” shared CEO Kimmy Venter. “Audrey’s philosophy was that where there was a sick child, there was a sick family, and it was essential to care for them all. That’s the foundation of Ronald McDonald House. That is our “why” and we are incredibly fortunate to have been founded here in Albany by people who knew Audrey Evans, who worked alongside her, who believed in her philosophy and committed their lives to caring, just like she did.”
Since opening its doors in 1982, the Albany Ronald McDonald House has welcomed more than 25,000 families to “The House That Love Built.” More than a place to lay their heads, families receive nourishing meals, community support, and a wellspring of comfort to help them on the journey they face with a sick child.
Board President Dan Miller poignantly shared, “My family is one of those 25,000. I can tell you from experience, when your child is in need of care, when your family unit is threatened, when a problem this big presents itself… and an organization, a volunteer, a stranger, steps up and offers to help… it means the world. We were greeted at the door and welcomed by the one and only Debbie Ross. For a month we lived not only free of charge, but free of every worry of life, every need provided for, so that we could be the parents we needed to be.”
Original Founders Debbie Ross, Dr. Bill Cromie. John Myers, and Garry Finkell shared their experiences and warm memories on a video presented at the celebration. Sentiments throughout the evening reiterated how “The House That Love Built” is more than just a slogan. Every brick, table, meal, and flower is here because of someone’s love. View the video below and witness the history!
