Meet the Caliendo Family

In December 2017, what presented as strep turned into a medical nightmare for the Caliendo family. It started over Christmas break when Joseph spiked a dangerously high fever and was rushed to the hospital. Within 24 hours, his condition worsened. Joseph went into septic shock and his kidneys were failing. The doctors acted swiftly, transferring him to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital for specialized care. “This was the beginning of the worst time of my life,” his mom, Tracy, said.

WHEN SUPPORT MATTERS MOST

As Joseph fought for his life, the Caliendo family had to make difficult choices. Joseph’s dad, Dave, stayed home to care for their younger son, Max, while Tracy stayed at the hospital. The plan made sense—but the emotional and physical toll was far greater than they expected.

That’s when a friend told Tracy about the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Stony Brook. “Go check it out,” she urged. “You’ll need it.” And she was right.

A Lifeline in the Hospital

The Ronald McDonald Family Room quickly became more than a space – it became a lifeline. It gave Tracy a place to rest, eat, shower, and simply breathe. For Dave, it meant peace of mind knowing his wife had a safe, supportive place while he was taking care of Max. “She had a place for a hot meal, clean clothes, a warm shower,” said Dave. “And,” Tracy added with a smile, “a hug when I needed one most.” This is exactly why Ronald McDonald House Charities exists. It’s our mission to provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. 

OUR MISSION IN ACTION

“I do not think I would have been able to get through it the way that I did if it wasn’t for that support,” Tracy said with a grateful smile. Tracy had the strength and clarity to be fully present for Joseph because Ronald McDonald House took care of her. Over the course of twelve days, Tracy was able to ask the right questions, advocate with confidence, and make informed decisions.

A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE

Thanks to expert medical care and the close love of his family, Joseph pulled through. Today, he’s living life to the fullest. Now a salutatorian from Longwood High School, Joseph is committed to Cornell University for the fall.

After Joseph’s health scare, he admitted to developing a new outlook on life. As a high schooler, he joined the Suffolk County Varsity Bowling team and helped lead his team to a championship victory. And his bond with little brother, Max, is stronger than ever.

The entire family feels deep gratitude for the doctors at Stony Brook Children’s and for the vital support they received from RMHC. Joseph was given a second chance, and he’s making every day count.

“A BLESSING YOU HOPE YOU NEVER NEED”

“Ronald McDonald House is the greatest blessing we hope people never need…” the Caliendos say. And Joseph chimes in, his voice full of gratitude and warmth, “Thank you, Ronald McDonald House, for keeping our family close.”

Please consider donating to Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro.


Together, we can give more families the strength to face the unthinkable—and the support to find their way through.

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