When the Ditto family first arrived at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville, their newborn daughter, Kayla, was fighting for her life after a critical heart diagnosis. Our House became their haven—offering comfort, stability, and a place where her three brothers could simply be kids again.

Three years later, the Dittos returned when their son Aiden was diagnosed with brain cancer. For 45 nights, they once again found hope within our walls—sharing meals, laughter, and moments of normalcy between treatments.

Two children. Two life-changing diagnoses. One House that stood by them through it all.
When fear walked in, hope moved in.

When Ky’re was born, his family quickly found a second home at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville. For the past seven years, the House has provided comfort, care, and safe transportation as he continues to face ongoing health challenges. Today, our families often arrive with only their suitcases—leaving behind essentials like car seats.

At Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville, healing begins with the little things—laughter, play and the comfort of community.

For Carson, the House became more than a place to stay; it became a place to belong.

From hiding colorful stacking rings in the toy room to cheering on friends at Bingo night, Carson filled each day with fun and friendship. He even became the House’s unofficial meal planner, eagerly checking the weekly menu and sharing his excitement with everyone around him.

For his mom, Jennifer, the greatest gift was the community. “It really makes a difference being with people who are going through the same or similar struggles,” she shared.

Carson’s story reminds us all that joy can be found in the everyday moments—and that healing happens best when families are surrounded by care and connection.

At just 15 years old, Tristan Ballinger’s life was forever changed after a traumatic accident left him with a brain injury. For more than three years, Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville became a second home to Tristan and his family as he underwent rehabilitation. Today, at 24, Tristan’s resilience and bright spirit continue to inspire all who meet him. Recently, he and his family returned to the House—not as guests, but as volunteers—sharing meals, laughter, and love with families walking a similar journey.

Born at just 25 weeks, Lillian has been a fighter from the start. At age ten, she faced a new battle—a rare brain tumor. Through every challenge, Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville provided her family comfort, community and moments of joy. Her spirit remains unbreakable.

Born at just 24 weeks, baby Ian faced a long, uncertain fight in the NICU. Far from home, his family found comfort, community and hope at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville—just steps from his bedside. Today, Ian is home, and his family’s gratitude is endless.