Fundraiser Highlights Accomplishments, Raises Money for Loma Linda’s Ronald McDonald House

The Redlands elite community gathered recently to raise money for the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House, which brought guests together at the Redlands Burrage Mansion to raise funds for the nonprofit organization that provides housing for parents and children who receive long-term medical care at the nearby Loma Linda University Child Hospital. Among those in attendance at the event were Fred Hill and his wife of almost 50 years, Fran, two of the founders of the first Ronald McDonald House. The Hills were struck with the idea of housing parents of seriously ill children to create comfort and a less stressful environment so the parents could focus more on their children’s health and well-being, an experience the couple knows about firsthand because their daughter Kim Hill was diagnosed with leukemia at age three. Kim bravely fought the disease for years and would eventually go into remission from the disease. At the age of 44, Kim passed away of brain cancer. Since the first Ronald McDonald house was built in Philadelphia in October 1974, the Ronald McDonald House has developed into over 300 homes all over the world. The Hills shared they are proud of their accomplishments because they genuinely wanted to help families and have succeeded in doing so. The Ronald McDonald House in Loma Linda contains a profound and highly respected staff that has helped sustain the exceptional reputation of the nonprofit organization. Michael Kovak, Executive Director at the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House, worked diligently to assure things were organized at the event, along with the assistance of Karen Hooper, Director of Operations. The Chairman of the event was Derek Hanson, general manager of Tom Bell Chevrolet. CEO Vincent Bryson spoke about the accomplishments and purpose of the Ronald McDonald House, stating, “The most rewarding part of the job is to see the families bond in this time of need. The common [desire] to assure their children have the best medical attention is bonded by the heart in many different languages. I fell in love with my job and I am very proud to be a part of such a rewarding experience.” A silent auction was filled with exclusive donations from businesses all over the Inland Empire and was hosted by DJ Daryl of KCAL-FM 96.7. The event also featured a live performance by Yardog, and valet parking and shuttle service were provided by Tom Bell Chevrolet. Fred Hill was of the opinion that no Ronald McDonald House would be in existence if it weren’t for the volunteers. He said, “Every Ronald McDonald House in existence stands because they have such beautiful, loyal and dedicated volunteers and we are so grateful for them.”