For Tracey Arnish, past Board Chair of Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon, her deep connection to the House stems from personal experience.

After her son was diagnosed with leukemia in 2007, she witnessed firsthand how Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon supported families like hers. “We were fortunate to receive medical treatment in our home city, but during this time we became aware of families [from out of town] who didn’t have anywhere to stay,” she recalls, adding that the separation of families is compounded by the monumental problems associated with loss of income due to having to relocate.

But through these families, Tracey also saw the comfort and security as well as the sense of relief that those staying at the House received.

Philanthropy has become a tradition in Tracey’s family, and in 2013 she was inspired to join the Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon Board of Directors where she became a crucial member of the committee that helped to build and open our new 73-bedroom House on the grounds of BC Children’s Hospital.

“I will never forget the months leading up to the opening of the new House,” she says. “I could imagine the relief families would experience when they walked through the door, and felt the people and spirit of the House lifting them up. I hoped they could find solace there, and comfort, and maybe even moments of levity despite the unthinkable circumstances. I hoped we would be a bright light, a part of the healing journey and a home away from home for all who needed us.”

Building the new House where families can stay together and have these special moments will forever be part of legacy, and she has also shared with us that she has named Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon in her family will. The motivation for this legacy gift: “knowing we can continue to provide families across BC and Yukon with a home away from home.”