At Ronald McDonald House Charities, our mission is to provide comfort, care, and a home away from home for families facing medical crises. Every family’s story is unique, but all share a common thread: the need for support during some of life’s most challenging moments.
Today, we’re honored to share the journeys of Robert Walker and Colton Caldwell—two individuals whose lives were touched by RMHC as children, and who now work for American Electric Power (AEP), one of our great supporting partners here at RMHC of Central Ohio.
Robert’s Journey: Easing the Burden for Families
When Robert was in fourth grade, he faced serious health issues that required his family to travel four hours away from home for specialized medical treatment. With his father serving in the Air Force and his mother working part-time, the logistics of travel and accommodation were overwhelming.
The local Ronald McDonald House was able to step in, providing Robert’s family with a private room, meals, and a caring environment just steps from the hospital.
“It was a huge burden off of my parents,” Robert remembers. “They didn’t have to worry about anything except me getting better.”
Colton’s Story: A Safe Haven in the Storm
During a family trip to Florida, Colton’s family turned to the Orlando Ronald McDonald House after a serious accident left him with a broken femur far from home. As he recovered from emergency surgery, Hurricane Charley struck, extending their stay and adding to the stress.
RMHC was there to provide a safe, welcoming space for Colton and his family. “Everyone was so welcoming” Colton shares. “It made a scary time much more comfortable for my family and me.”
Special Thanks to the AEP Ohio Foundation
Stories like Robert’s and Colton’s are at the heart of what we do at RMHC. We are deeply grateful for the support of community partners like the AEP Ohio Foundation, whose commitment helps us continue our mission.
This year, the AEP Ohio Foundation has chosen RMHC as the benefiting organization for AEP’s annual employee charity golf outing, a partnership that will help us reach even more families in need. Robert and Colton were both part of the committee that helped to choose RMHC as the benefitting charity.
“It’s definitely a good cause,” said Colton.
The AEP Ohio Foundation is proud to support charities like RMHC, and they are geared up to raise more than $100,000 during their charity golf outing. RMHC is extremely grateful for everything AEP employees and the AEP Ohio Foundation do for the House.