We explore how Ronald McDonald House Alberta keeps families together during pediatric treatment, turning the hidden costs of travel, food, and fatigue into manageable routines. Renee shares her son’s cancer journey, while Suzanne explains the province-wide network and the recent Calgary expansion.
• travel for specialized pediatric care across Alberta
• hidden costs of “free” healthcare and lost income
• Renee’s path from diagnosis to stem cell transplant
• the role of meals, shuttles, and caregiver support
• siblings’ memories shaped by crafts and community
• expansion in Calgary from 27 to 91 suites
• measuring impact with family health and savings
• ways to give: monthly, round up, volunteer, tell stories
• modelling kindness, community, and giving to kids
About Our Guests
Suzanne Pescod - Marketing and Communications Director at Ronald McDonald House Alberta. A fan of books, hot coffee, and laughter. My coolest role so far is Nova and Ronan’s mom!
Renee Labriola - Registered Dental Hygienist, Assistant Clinical Professor at University of Alberta, mom of 2 including a brain cancer survivor. Amateur pastry chef and lover of butter.
What is Give Amplify Connect?
There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story.
Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com
Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun
