That Smile Makes It All Worthwhile

Newcastle Herald

Thursday December 14, 2000

according to Chad Watson & Linda Barnier

DIANNE and Tony Medcalf freely admit they would not have easily coped with their much loved adopted son Phillip without the assistance of Ronald McDonald House.

The family from Taree visited Phillip's `second home' for its annual Christmas Party this week.

Phillip, almost 9, is a regular face at the Rankin Park facility.

He has multiple disabilities and requires 24-hour care. He has been admitted to the nearby John Hunter Hospital 41 times since 1993.

He has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, is visually impaired and has a tracheotomy tube in his throat which needs to be constantly cleared so he can breathe.

He is fed through a tube in his stomach.

Each time he leaves home for hospital, 200km away, one of his devoted parents is by his side.

They are able to afford accommodation thanks to the low maximum fee of $20 a night charged at Ronald McDonald House.

`I do not believe we could have cared for Phillip like we have without Ronald McDonald House,' Mrs Medcalf said.

Ronald McDonald House is a temporary home for many parents with sick children.

It is a five-minute walk from the hospital.

Volunteer Grace Jones (pictured left with Phillip) is a 77-year-old great grandmother, who has volunteered at the house for 10 years.

`Looking after children like Phillip is enough reward in itself,' Mrs Jones said.

His mother agreed.

`We have not had a moment of regret with Phillip,' Mrs Medcalf said.

`Every time he gives you a smile it is all worthwhile.'

© 2000 Newcastle Herald

Back to News Index | Back to Home