Thomas Yorke, better known as “Tommy Tsunami,” endured a family’s worst nightmare: a pediatric cancer diagnosis. For Tommy and his family, the diagnosis came as a shock, but it was also a chance to come together. Throughout Tommy’s cancer treatments at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, the family stayed close by at the Ronald McDonald House, just 200 feet away from the hospital where Tommy received lifesaving treatments.
Located just steps away from Cohen Children’s Medical Center, the Ronald McDonald House is a 24-hour home-away-from home for families caring for their sick or injured children. With 42 bedrooms, laundry rooms, fully-stocked kitchens, lounge areas, a media room, gym, and more we provide comfortable spaces for families to take care of themselves so they can take care of their children.
For Tommy’s dad, Christopher, taking those steps to and from the hospital every day meant something more. Walking along the path lined with personalized bricks on the Walk of Love, Christopher noticed so many names of children and families who experienced similar challenges to his own.
“We went through hell for 7-8 months, but we know people go through things like this for years. To live here, gives a sense of normalcy. People can go to school from here, people can go to work from here, people can recharge their batteries—because you need to be there for your child.”
– Christopher Yorke, Tommy’s dad
“Tsunami Crushed It” is a message of hope and perseverance in the face of hardship and uncertainty. For a limited time, we are offering brick inscriptions on the RMHC New York Metro Walk of Love. For a $500 donation, you will be able to leave a lasting message of love & hope in New Hyde Park for years to come. Your donation is tax-deductible and will provide essential funds for RMHC New York Metro programs.
Thank you for your support, today & always.