But sadly, for parents of seriously ill children, it can be an incredibly difficult time.
Thankfully there is a place they can turn to for support – Ronald McDonald House Charities.
The organisation provides accommodation for families of children who are in hospital, offering them a home away from home when they need it most.
There are 14 Ronald McDonald houses across the country with facilities including kitchens, purpose built lounges, laundry rooms and play areas.
The accommodation is free and families are able to stay for as long as they need.
Closer spoke to some of the families from the Ronald McDonald House at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and treated them to some festive goodies to help brighten up their Christmas…
The Burke Family
Ellen Linda May Burke was diagnosed with liver failure earlier this year after suffering complications from a bowel operation. The one-year-old has since received a liver transplant and will hopefully return home early next year. Her parents
Keith, 35, and Kay, 37, from Swindon, have stayed at the Ronald McDonald house in Birmingham for the last six months.
Kay says: “I don’t know what we’d have done without the Ronald McDonald house. The staff are so friendly and helpful, it’s been a God send. Ellen’s doing really well and will hopefully be home in January. But we’ll be here for Christmas and Keith is planning on cooking a roast for everyone.”
The Burns Family
Six-month old Jack was born with heart and respiratory problems. The youngster has to be hooked up to a ventilator 24 hours a day and has already been through an operation to help his breathing. His parents Katie Burns, 27, and John Nead, 33, from Birmingham have been by his side at the Ronald McDonald house since he was born.
Katie says: “I don’t know what we’d have done without the Ronald McDonald house. It makes a huge difference because we’re able to spend time with Jack and we’re also near the hospital in case he needs any emergency treatment. The house is so comfortable, we’re able to do simple things like washing and cooking, which makes life so much easier.”
The Loader Family
Lewis Loader was diagnosed with a brain tumour aged six. He had surgery to remove it, but was left with health problems including seizures and strokes. Two years on, the eight-year-old is cancer free after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but sill needs treatment at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
His mum Becky Loader, 27, from Malvern, says: “We’ve been staying at the Ronald McDonald house regularly since Lewis was diagnosed with cancer and it’s been brilliant. We don’t know how long Lewis will need to stay here and I’m considering enrolling my three other children at the school in the hospital so they can have a bit of normality. This Christmas we’ll have lots of friends and family visit, it feels like home.”
For more information visit: http://www.rmhc.org.uk
Presents provided by: