The Watson Family Patient: Matthew Age: 3 Diagnosis: Stage IV Neuroblastoma Cancer On August 18th, 2004, we realized our worst nightmare. Our son, Matthew, at the age of 3, was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma Cancer. We had 8 hours to get ourselves ready, packed, and on the road to Minneapolis, not knowing where we would stay or for how long. Our worries quickly faded when we walked through the doors of the Ronald McDonald House. The staff and volunteers welcomed us into their home and helped us get settled quickly and comfortably during a very uncertain and stressful time in our lives. Numerous programs that the House offers made our nine month stay so much easier. We all looked forward to the events that took place during the week. The staff and countless volunteers grew to be some of our DEAREST FRIENDS. We continue to fight Matthew’s disease and travel to Minneapolis regularly. We take comfort in knowing we’ll have a place to stay and, more importantly, the care and support we know we’ll need. The Ronald McDonald House is a place where there is friendship, love and comfort. Our gratitude to the Ronald McDonald House staff, volunteers and the donors who make this Home possible could never be expressed enough. Thank you! Sincerely, The Watsons North Dakota You can continue to follow Matthew’s journey by visiting his website at www.caringbridge.org/nd/matthew As we have told so many, the Ronald McDonald House is an unbelievable place. It’s a home-away-from-home and so much MORE. We cannot begin to imagine going through this experience without the support and care of the Ronald McDonald House. --Matthew’s Mom