ATLANTA — Raje Kantamneni’s son, Rohan, means the world to her. Rohan was diagnosed with Omenn Syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting a newborn’s immune system. The Kantamnenis endured months of tests, surgeries and uncertainty at hospitals across the country.
“The doctors told us this is a marathon, not a sprint and it’s important you take care of yourself so you can take care of your son,” Raje said.
Finding a home gave Raje hope. She connected with Ronald McDonald House Charities, which she said helped relieve her of the stress of having to figure out what she would eat and where she would stay as she traversed the country to find care for her son.
Tracey Atwater, president and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Atlanta, said the nonprofit would soon open a new $90 million location to serve double the families it could previously serve. It will be located next to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Arthur M. Blank Hospital.
“This house is full of heart,” Atwater said. “We are a place where they physically stay while their kids are getting the care. We’re also a place where the people that family defines as family sticks together and gets them through that tough time.”
