“With open arms the Ronald McDonald House staff, volunteers, and its donors gave us a sigh of relief, a sunshine ray of hope and a place to call our temporary home. Ronald McDonald House allows families to survive and thrive; that’s why it holds a SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART,” Kimberly Trell reflects.
It was 2005 when Kimberly left Arkansas Children’s Hospital without her son. Afterwards, she remembers years of “numbness” along with the “outpouring of love and support from the Ronald McDonald House.” The Trell family needed time + space to navigate a new life but have reconnected with the place they consider home. “There are just so many emotions and unhealed scars in my heart from losing my son to cancer.” When she recalled a special memory, Kimberly realized it was time. “It was a phenomenal day to become a Ronald McDonald House volunteer.” She uses her event planning expertise as a member the planning committee for A Night in Vegas. In preparation for this year’s event, Kimberly insists there are ample opportunities for everyone to enjoy a fun-filled evening and “lessen the stress for so many families.”
A Night in Vegas includes a variety of casino games, delicious bites from local eateries as well as unique entertainment and a raffle including a special piece of jewelry from Sissy’s Log Cabin. A Night in Vegas Chair Nichole Ostner McGeorge adds, “It is a really fun laid-back event. You don’t have to get all dressed up to come and have a great time.” Kimberly is most looking forward to sharing insight about the organization’s impressive mission fulfillment work. “They may not know the full story behind Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana. Families must stop life when it comes to caring for a sick child. The unexpected happens and the Ronald McDonald House is a resource connection.”
All proceeds will stay local to provide a free place for families to stay together at the Ronald McDonald House while their children are receiving care and treatment at local hospitals. Amenities include a private guest suite, meals, laundry services and so much other support – at no cost – with a finite focus on what matters most … a child’s recovery. “I can’t stress enough how much of a weight is lifted from the mind of a parent to know that because of generous donations, the duration of your stay is always covered.”
In 2023, more than 1,900 families were welcomed at the Ronald McDonald House. Kimberly adds, “The facility runs on love and a lot of commitment from volunteers and the support of business + civic leaders. The Ronald McDonald House is a safe haven for families. It’s up to us all as sponsors and individuals; we can be an extra helping hand for so many families that come from near and far during a very difficult time – making them feel welcome with a smile and maybe an unspoken prayer.”
A NIGHT IN VEGAS
September 19
The Hall