For 20 years, RMHC Toronto School has helped keep patients and their siblings close by providing kindergarten to grade 12 classes onsite – as well as preschool and virtual options – so the whole family can stay together.

Five-year-old Alister loves school at RMHC Toronto. His eyes sparkle as he talks about his teacher, all his new friends, and his very favourite animal book.

Alister also loves his big brothers, Ashton, who goes to RMHC Toronto School too, and Aidan, who is currently staying at the hospital. Aidan lives with an extremely rare metabolic disorder and epilepsy. About a year ago, Aidan suffered severe kidney damage—and he’s been in the hospital and on dialysis ever since.

Aidan’s turn for the worse was devastating. The boys’ mom and dad wanted to be at Aidan’s side, but how could they afford to stay in Toronto near the hospital? And how could the boys keep up with their education far from home?

Thanks to our donors, Alister’s family found a home at RMHC Toronto.

The Ronald McDonald House in downtown Toronto offers much more than comfortable accommodation to families of seriously ill children. It’s a place where families can connect with other families going through similar experiences, where they can come together over a hot meal, or participate in meaningful activities, such as arts and crafts or dog therapy.

Families are especially relieved when they discover that we have an onsite school, recognized by the Ministry of Education, within our welcoming walls. Now in its 20th year, RMHC Toronto School is open to all patients and siblings staying at the House.

This fall, Alister is thrilled to be in senior kindergarten, his second year at RMHC Toronto School. He’s busy making memories that will last a lifetime—and his family is forever grateful that they can be close together.

Mom Aimee says, “Nobody ever expects to be in this situation. Nobody would ever want to be. Aidan’s been sick for a long time now, but we never expected his illness to be this bad. In all of our decisions, it’s always a priority to keep our family together. RMHC Toronto donors have helped us to do that.”

Dad Alex adds, “We always tell Alister that he’s so lucky to be going to this unique school. Every month the school hosts a fair, where parents get a chance to see what their kids have been learning and creating in the classroom. He’s keeping up with his peers and making great progress.”

We’re excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of RMHC Toronto School. Since 2004, this unique program has been helping to ensure that children experiencing serious illness don’t fall behind in school—and makes it possible for their siblings to stay close to them, too.

To make a donation in support of families like Alister’s, and to help ensure children can keep making memories at RMHC Toronto School, visit rmhctoronto.ca/backtoschool.