When the Ditto family first arrived at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville in 2022, their world had been turned upside down. Their newborn daughter, Kayla, had just been diagnosed with a critical heart complication. In the fragile early days of her life, she underwent a life-saving surgery to repair her tiny heart. During those uncertain months, the Ronald McDonald House became a sanctuary of comfort and stability.
Inside our House, the Dittos found more than just a place to stay, they found a community. Kayla’s three older brothers had space to play, learn and just be kids again, while her parents found the support and strength they needed to face each day. Most importantly, they were only steps away from Kayla’s hospital room, close enough to be by her side through every milestone and moment of healing. In the midst of heartbreak, the family discovered hope, compassion and the reassuring feeling of being home when they needed it most.
Three years later, the Ditto family returned to our doors, this time with their son, Aiden, whose brain cancer diagnosis once again uprooted their lives. When they heard the words no parent ever wants to hear, they knew exactly where they would find refuge. For 45 nights, they called our House home while Aiden underwent proton radiation treatment.
Between treatments, the family found moments of joy and togetherness helping carry them through the hard days. Aiden and his mom enjoyed nightly warm meals, bingo nights and creative activities allowing them to laugh and relax, even for a little while. Kayla, now thriving and full of energy, joined her brother and two older siblings for the first time at the House—sharing family dinners, movie nights and simple moments that made them feel whole again.
Each day brought new challenges, yet our House continued to provide small moments of normalcy and immense comfort amid overwhelming uncertainty—not once, but twice—for the Ditto family.
Two children. Two life-changing diagnoses. One place that stood by them through it all.
When fear and uncertainty walked into their lives, hope moved in.
