When Tanell Thomsett noticed her nine-year-old daughter, Millie, was feeling unwell one Friday night, she initially thought it was just a common virus. However, by Sunday, it became clear that Millie's condition was more serious. She was quickly rushed to Mackay Base Hospital via ambulance for urgent medical attention.
“Being a typical mum of three children I just thought she had a tummy bug or something,” Ms Thomsett said.
“We had gone out of town for the weekend, but once we got back to Mackay I realised she was really sick,” she said.
After thorough testing, doctors determined that Millie was likely suffering from a kidney infection, which required her to stay at Mackay Base Hospital for five nights. Reflecting on that challenging week, Ms Thomsett shared, "Lots of antibiotics, sleepless nights, and high temperatures."
Ms Thomsett stayed by Millie’s side for two nights in hospital before discovering the Ronald McDonald House Family Room.
“It was so comforting to know you had people here to help you out,” Ms Thomsett said.
Amidst the difficulties, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital played a pivotal role in alleviating the burden for Ms Thomsett, Millie, and their entire family.
Ms Thomsett expressed her gratitude, saying, "It was just amazing. My husband would bring the kids up at night after they had finished work and sport. We were able to eat as a family and spend time together. I was able to see our other two kids, and they were able to see their sister."
The volunteers at the Ronald McDonald Family Room made a significant impact on the family's experience.
Ms Thomsett praised their dedication, saying, "They were amazing. They washed my clothes for me. I walked in with a bag of clothes, and they said, 'here, we'll do that, sit on the couch, have a nap'."
One volunteer, Ruby, stood out in particular for helping distract Millie from her medical ordeal. Ms Thomsett recalled, "It was so beautiful to see young Ruby in there when we went over one afternoon just to get a break from being in the hospital. She sat there and played Minecraft with Millie, and I was very grateful for that because I don't understand video games at all!"
Fortunately, Millie has made a full recovery and no longer requires antibiotics. Ms Thomsett expressed her relief, stating, "We're finally off antibiotics, which we're very happy about. Hopefully, we don't have to use the amazing service again, but we're so grateful it's there if we do."
After experiencing the invaluable support of the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Ms Thomsett is now urging the community to consider donating to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia this tax time. She exclaimed, "If you ever wonder where to make a donation, it's definitely to this amazing charity!"
Millie Thomsett at Mackay Base Hospital
Millie and brother Eli (12 years old) playing video games in the Ronald McDonald House Family Room
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