The Dobson family from Kelowna, BC stayed at the House for 130 days in 2020 and 2021. Their daughter Shannah needed a bone marrow transplant, and when they found a perfect match, there wasn’t any time to waste. They had to leave their home town and travel to Vancouver quickly. That’s when they found RMH BC, and felt immediately at ease in the bright and spacious House.

What was the best part of staying at the House? Mom Vanessa doesn’t hesitate: it was the community of support built with other families also staying at RMH BC. “Being able to go through difficult times with others in similar situations makes all the difference,” she began. “There were three of us families with children having bone marrow transplants around the same time. We were able to talk about the struggles and celebrate milestones together. It was so very special. I felt a real sense of purpose in being able to encourage others when they were having hard days…and they did the same for me. We were all on this journey together.”

Vanessa said the House helped to give her a peace of mind after long days at the hospital. “Personally, I loved the shared kitchens. They were such a mood booster. It’s where we were able to get to know the other families and really connect. Boxed dinners were a lifesaver, and Save on Foods stocks the cupboards with essential ingredients that took the pressure off me having to run to the store if I needed something.” When it came time to relax, massage therapy was her big destress, while daughter Shannah enjoyed the art room and art therapy program. Overall? “There is lots to love at the House!”

A standout moment to the Dobson’s was staying at RMH BC over the holidays. “Being there over Christmas was very special, and they spoiled us with amazing meals (including a Christmas dinner) and presents for the kids. There are six of us in total, and although we all weren’t staying at the House all the time, having the option to spend time together was amazing. All the attention to detail really made us feel at home and gave us little things to look forward to during a very challenging time. Thank you will never be enough.”