Thank you for supporting our team's participation in Ronald McDonald House SNJ's Hustle for the House! Together, we are creating a source of strength and support for ill or injured children and their families. You are putting more hot meals on the table, giving more families a safe place to rest their heads at night, and a chance to seek life-altering medical care.
My (Angela Lozano) journey with the Ronald McDonald House began 31 years ago, at the Atlanta location. I arrived expecting a somber, difficult experience. Instead, I discovered a vibrant home overflowing with love, hope, and an incredible sense of community. I witnessed families supporting one another through unimaginable challenges, sharing meals, playing games, and finding joy in every precious moment. It was truly one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.
My monthly visits soon became weekly as I forged deep connections with the families, knowing my presence made a meaningful difference. In 2005, I had the privilege of meeting Catie-Bug. Her infectious laugh and sunny disposition brightened every room she entered. Our tradition quickly became baking chocolate chip cookies, her absolute favorite, during each of my visits.
Though Catie-Bug’s battle ended at the tender age of 4, her spirit lives on, inspiring us all. Her family, driven by love and loss, established an incredibly impactful Cure Fund, raising millions to advance pediatric cancer research. It’s a testament to their remarkable dedication and Catie-Bug’s enduring legacy. Every year on her birthday, I bake chocolate chip cookies, a sweet reminder of the joy she brought to my life and countless others.
I recognized early on that the Ronald McDonald House was extraordinary—a place where every act of kindness, no matter how small, resonates deeply. I vowed that one day, I would share this profound experience with my own family. Years later, after finishing school, getting married, and moving to New Jersey, I found my way back to the Ronald McDonald House, this time in Camden, NJ.
But now, I wasn't alone. My loving husband, two beautiful daughters, my parents, and my brother's family joined me. Once a month, we spend time with the families, playing games and creating art. It’s a privilege to teach my daughters that our dedicated time and contributions can not only uplift these families but also enrich our own lives.
Together, we truly can make a difference!