Ronald McDonald Houses Receive When One Door Closes

Northville, MI. March 8, 2012 – When a family member is diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening illness it not only impacts the individual but the entire family unit, friends and the community – especially when the family member with the illness is a child or teen. The story of one such family is contained in the pages of the award winning book When One Door Closes by Susie and Bill Graham with H. Thomas Saylor.

When teenager Alex Graham was undergoing lung surgery, The Ronald McDonald House made it possible for her parents to stay close to their daughter by providing accommodations in a safe, clean and supportive environment. Because The Ronald McDonald House is not only a place to stay but one where families can share and learn, copies of When One Door Closes have been added to the libraries of Ronald McDonald Houses across North America. The positive feedback regarding Alex’s remarkable wish and the Graham family’s inspiring story has been phenomenal and appreciated.

A Wish Renewed

“So next time when you see a kid with cancer or even someone who looks a little different, try a smile.”

Thirteen years ago, a teenager with cancer made a wish. She wanted to make a difference by sharing a message with all who would listen. The Make-A-Wish© Foundation of Michigan made Alex Graham’s wish for a public service announcement a reality. Alex and the friends she made at the hospital used the wish opportunity to speak from the heart. People across America and from around world listened. Their message still rings true today, and a new version of their video has just been released.

Alex would have been 30 this year. Her inspirational story is told in the book When One Door Closes. Like Alex, some of the children in her video lost their health battles, but their courage, grace and message will always be with us. Some in the video like Amanda who says, “No more pokes,” is now 15 years old and a talented artist. Judy is now married, and Ethan is a college student!

When you watch this newly released version of Alex’s wish, you will see that time has not changed the importance or the relevance of her message. As you listen to their words, please consider supporting organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America©, the Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the American Cancer Society. These and many other fine organizations bring smiles to those who need it most, offer assistance and fund medical research. Choose to get involved and make a difference. Your time, talent and contributions will help open doors for others.