Before they ever heard the words childhood leukemia, Yeser and Maria knew something was wrong with their three-year-old son, Lafa. The diagnosis was devastating. With their younger son, two-year-old Hamza, the family came to Houston and found a home at Ronald McDonald House while Lafa received specialized treatment at Texas Children’s Hospital.
For more than two years, the family of four lived together at Holcombe House, where the support of staff, volunteers and other families became part of their healing process.
“The four of us staying together in one room for two years was a blessing,” Yeser said. “But we were also nearly going crazy with two energetic little boys!”
For Lafa and Hamza, Holcombe House became their playground. They spent their early childhood racing through the Great Room, celebrating birthdays and holidays, joining family activities, and looking forward to shared meals each day. Hamza decorated his first Christmas tree, the family took part in a “Prom” dance, attended their first rodeo, and the two boys showed off their Halloween costumes long after the holiday had passed. While the brothers played and laughed, Yeser and Maria found strength in the friendships they built with other parents who understood exactly what they were facing.
When Lafa completed treatment in early 2023, the family was able to leave the medical environment and begin a new chapter. But they never really left Ronald McDonald House behind.
Today, they return often to participate in events, support the organization and act as an ambassadors. From running together in our annual 5K to joining celebrations at Holcombe House, the family remains involved with Ronald McDonald House.
“In our family, Ronald McDonald House is part of our heart.”
For parents arriving for the first time—frightened, exhausted and unsure of what lies ahead—they offer the reassurance they once needed themselves.
“Here, you will find good people, support and hope. It’s like being surrounded by angels,” said Yeser.
When a child is seriously ill, the whole family is impacted, including siblings. Ronald McDonald House supports siblings with services, activities, education support, and memory-making opportunities that help the entire family stay strong and heal together.