When Harper, AKA “Brave Harpy,” first started complaining about pain in her hip in February 2024, her parents thought it might be a sports injury or a minor virus. After all, they had been through something similar with her older sister years before. But as the pain worsened, the family sought medical help, leading to a long and uncertain road of hospital stays, tests, and waiting for answers. By April 1, after a sudden swelling in her eye and alarming blood test results, Harper was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Seattle. It was there that her family received the diagnosis they had feared: cancer.
Harper’s journey would require months of treatment, meaning one of her parents would need to be by her side, leaving their home in the Tri-Cities behind. With two older daughters at home and a job as a middle school secretary, Harper’s mom, Karla, faced an overwhelming reality—how to balance their new life in Seattle with the family and responsibilities left behind. That’s when they learned about Ronald McDonald House.
At first, Karla wasn’t sure what to expect. The idea of communal living with other families was daunting for someone who considered herself an introvert. But from the moment they arrived, they were met with warmth, kindness, and understanding. The staff made the transition easier, and soon, the House became a place of comfort, support, and stability in an otherwise chaotic time.
The House also eased the financial burden of being away from home for so long. Between the meals provided, the stocked pantry, and a comfortable place to stay, Harper’s family didn’t have to worry about the logistics of daily life—they could focus on what mattered most: Harper’s health.
The impact of the Ronald McDonald House went beyond just providing a place to sleep. It was a community. For Harper’s mom, it meant connecting with other parents who understood the fear, exhaustion, and hope that came with a child’s medical battle.
“It’s like a different little world,” she shared. “Everyone here is going through something hard, and there’s comfort in that—knowing you’re not alone.”
For Harper, the House became a second home filled with new friendships and small joys that made a big difference. Whether it was the library, the arts and crafts room, or simply meeting other children who understood her journey, the House provided a sense of normalcy amid the uncertainty.
Being apart from family was one of the hardest parts of their journey. Harper’s sisters, Charlie and Teegan, stayed in the Tri-Cities, visiting when they could. The family relied on FaceTime and occasional trips back home to stay connected. At times, Harper’s mom and dad would switch places. The separation was difficult, but the stability and support of the House helped them navigate the challenges.
Looking back, Karla reflects on how much the House has meant to their family. “This place is a comforting, safe, and reliable home when you need it most,” she said. “It’s not just about maintaining a building—it’s about maintaining the lives of the families inside.”
To those considering supporting the Ronald McDonald House, she has a simple but powerful message:
“Your donation isn’t just helping to keep a house running. It’s helping families like ours make it through the hardest time in our lives.”
Nearly a year after first arriving at the House, eight-year-old Harper is headed home. Her latest medical results bring relief and hope—her treatment has gone well, and she is ready to transition back to life beyond the hospital. The journey hasn’t been easy, but through it all, the Ronald McDonald House provided a place of stability, comfort, and connection.
“Before coming here, I had no idea how much the Ronald McDonald House does for families—now I can’t imagine going through this without it,” Karla shared.
In recognition of her strength and determination, Harper was recently honored with the Wayne Gittinger Inspirational Youth Award at the 90th Sports Star of the Year event, hosted by the Seattle Sports Commission. Her perseverance—even while undergoing treatment—has been an inspiration to all who know her. From all of us at the Seattle Ronald McDonald House, we’re incredibly honored to have been part of her journey.
