Steve and Lynne Wheeler
Location is everything, as they say in real estate. Legacy Society members Lynne and Steve Wheeler saw a key strength of our Ronald McDonald House on their first visit: its ideal location. Directly across the street from Rady Children’s Hospital, our proximity gives children and parents peace of mind in what otherwise can be a scary time.
Children hospitalized at Rady Children’s like knowing their moms and dads are just steps away. Some kids can even look out their window and see family waving at them from the House. And it’s comforting for parents to know their child is close by while they take a break for lunch, a refreshing shower or a quick nap.
That parents and families can be nearby is the best therapy for a hospitalized child."
It’s good therapy for families too. Upon entering the House, they’re greeted by compassionate staff and volunteers who understand what they’re going through. Overnight guest suites are available, as are comfy nap rooms for daytime use. Any family wearing a hospital wristband can enjoy free hot meals three times a day and lots of in-between snacks. There’s an onsite TK-12 school, as well as indoor and outdoor play spaces that are favorites of the siblings of hospitalized children.
Indoor and outdoor play spaces are favorites of the siblings of hospitalized children.
Steve first toured the House in 2012. He was moved to see families receive all the comforts of home and more—and all for free. Steve wanted to be a part of that care, so he organized fundraisers to benefit our families through his Ferrari Owners Club of San Diego.
Then Steve knew a child staying at Rady Children’s. That’s when the purpose of the Ronald McDonald House really hit home. “It’s heartwarming to know that the House is there for families that you care about,” Steve says.
Lynne and Steve decided together to name the House in their estate. "We feel very strongly about helping children in the hospital have their families close by," says Lynne.
"Just knowing those services exist for families is reassuring," Steve adds. "It's like owning an insurance policy." Lynne and Steve now are Charter Members of our Many Hearts Legacy Society.
The Wheelers' Bible study group served Palm Sunday dinner to our families.
The Wheelers have been generous supporters of the House for 12 years, and we treasure their friendship. They recently brought their Bible study group to serve Palm Sunday dinner to 150 of our family guests! We value this very special couple for their superb commitment to keeping our families close.
What You Can Do
- If you'd like to become a Many Hearts Legacy Society Member, we'd be honored to have you! To join, just submit a Declaration of Intent form, or contact Christina Jordan at 858-598-2461 or cjordan@rmhcsd.org.
- If you want to serve a meal to our families, like the Wheelers, please contact Tera Patton-Ikeler at 858-598-2414 or tpatton@rmhcsd.org.