Toy Industry Foundation Hosts “Windy” Morning of Fun and Games with Patients at Ronald McDonald House near University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital

July 20, 2010 | Representatives of the Toy Industry Foundation and 25 pediatric cancer patients and their families staying at Ronald McDonald House near University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital  The children, along with their siblings and parents, decorated wind chimes, designed wind socks and enjoyed a pizza and cupcake lunch. Also in attendance was Senator Kwame Raoul who was joined by Kimberly Walz, District Director for Congressman Mike Quigley; Thyatiria Townes, District Programs Coordinator for Congressman Bobby Rush; and Beth Penesis, Intergovernmental Affairs Liaison, from Governor Pat Quinn’s office. And whether attendees were Illinois natives or traveled to stay at the House, everyone left with Chicago sports team plush.

“One of the patients was on his way to receive chemotherapy that afternoon and he was able to stop by the activity room for only a minute to join us,” said Amanda McDorman, Foundation Manager. “He asked if he could take one of the soft White Sox balls with him to the hospital. This wasn’t his first treatment; he knew what to expect and he knew that having that toy to hold on to would help. Being able to provide that comfort is what the Play Heals^TM program is all about.”

“Thank you for working with our House here in Chicago to provide toys and enjoyment to the families,” said Gabe Ottolini, Manager of Development at Ronald McDonald House Charities headquarters. “We certainly appreciate your partnership and look forward to many more great events.”

The children received toys generously donated by leading toy companies Good Stuff Company, Hasbro, Oriental Trading Company, and Thames and Kosmos.
 
The Ronald McDonald House near University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital opened its doors on September 13, 1986 as the second House in Chicago. The staff and volunteers of this 22 bedroom House have welcomed more than 7,700 families from across the world over the past 20+ years, half of whom have returned to stay at the House many times, totaling almost 15,000 visits. In 2007, the House was re-located & re-built to better serve its families.

The Toy Industry Foundation’s mission is to bring joy, comfort, and learning to children in need through toys and play. While other organizations provide food, shelter and support services to children and their families, TIF sees to it that these children have toys and opportunities to play in an attempt to restore both fun and a sense of normalcy to their lives.

Photos by David Czuba