families of babies and children who need hospital care. executive Director beth Alessio says, “Most of the people who stay at the house are parents of premature babies. Memorial Hospital has a Level 3b NiCu (Neonatal intensive Care unit). Level 3b units care for babies with a very high level of need.” Memorial is the only Level 3b facility in Colorado springs.

the ronald McDonald House has been open to families in Colorado springs for the past 22 years, and the century-old house recently underwent extensive renovation—thanks in part to folks like Connie and Curtis Christofferson—including room additions and a complete kitchen remodel. the

most recent project is the Healing Garden, a peaceful place for past and present families who have a connection to the house.

As Alessio explains, the ronald McDonald House came to be after Philadelphia eagles football player Fred Hill experienced firsthand the need for such a place when his daughter was diagnosed with leukemia in 1974. Like countless families before, his family camped out at the hospital during his daughter’s treatment. the football franchise parlayed personal connections with owners of McDonalds restaurants into a partnership that would grow to 200-plus houses in 30 countries.

the Colorado springs ronald McDonald House

below this suite, sponsored by the sisters of Charity, is one of 11 suites at the John zay guest house. Each suite features a living area, kitchenette, and private bathroom. right the healing garden, dedicated in April, is the newest addition to the ronald McDonald house. the healing garden is designed to offer a peaceful and healing place for families of babies who have received care at Memorial hospital. Photo by lyn hale, ronald McDonald house Manager.