Maggie Ormes is 3 years old with a bright personality, big imagination, and a sweet smile.
In December 2025, she began having repeat ear infections. In what her parents hoped would lead to routine ear tube surgery, the doctor saw something unexpected. When her parents, Brandi and Joshua, got the call that she needed a CT scan immediately, they knew something was seriously wrong.
Maggie was diagnosed with Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare, aggressive tissue cancer. In the blink of an eye, paralysis set in on her face; she lost weight and had no energy. Fear, overwhelm, and uncertainty flooded the Ormes, and life as they knew it turned upside down.
Brandi and Joshua learned that Maggie’s treatment plan would require chemotherapy, overnight hospital stays, and daily radiation treatments, at a hospital hours away from their home. When they were connected to Ronald McDonald House Atlanta, so many unknowns were answered for them.
“Ronald McDonald House Atlanta helped reduce the pressure on us,” said Joshua. “My wife would send an email, and we were booked for the whole month. Having a place to stay was one less thing to worry about.”
For the Ormes family, Ronald McDonald House Atlanta quickly became much more than just a place to stay. It became a place where Brandi can build relationships with other moms walking similar journeys.
Where Joshua feels peace of mind, knowing his family is safe when he can’t be there. And where Maggie can be a kid again after facing a long day of treatment.
The playground slides, arts and crafts room, and play market are among Maggie’s favorite places in the House. “Maggie is so comfortable and happy here,” said Brandi.
“She calls it her other House, and we’re thankful to know that she’s so happy to come here.”
As Maggie’s treatment continues, Brandi and Joshua find relief knowing they always have a home away from home at Ronald McDonald House Atlanta. “Pediatric cancer is a world you never want to be a part of, and you don’t think it’s going to be you,” said Brandi. “Ronald McDonald House Atlanta is a resource that has truly been helpful for us. It’s everything we need during these times away from home.”
At Ronald McDonald House Atlanta, we are honored to provide a home away from home while families, like Maggie’s, fight cancer.
This September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, please give to ensure more families like the Ormes never face childhood illness alone.
