Independent charity Ronald McDonald House Bristol is to launch a fundraising initiative in honour of its 15th birthday yesterday.
Called 15 for 15, it will involve staff and volunteers participating in and organising 15 high-profile fundraising events including skydiving, a sports dinner with prominent speakers and RMHBfest – a family orientated music festival to take place next June. 
For the past 15 years RMH Bristol has been providing free, home-from-home accommodation and support for the families of sick children receiving treatment at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. The house provides a warm, caring, fully equipped home that allows families to be near their child during this most stressful time.
15 for 15 will be launched next Thursday at an evening of recognition at RMH Bristol’s home-from-home, attended by supporters, volunteers, families and staff past and present along with its newest supporters Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies MBE and Ian Royce, warm-up comedian for the X-Factor and Britain’s Got Talent.
Mike Sumsion, a father who has stayed at the house on several occasions, said: “They provide a service you never want to need. They offer comfort and support and reduce stress for parents going through the worst times of their lives.”
RMH Bristol fundraising and events coordinator Anna Palmer added: “Our whole team is really excited about the year ahead and forthcoming challenges.
“Since opening our doors in 2002 we have supported over 7,200 families and we hope to continue to be able to provide this sanctuary for families in need for many more years to come. We hope that our calendar of events will inspire others to also get involved and make this 15th anniversary year our most successful to date.”
RMHBfest takes place at Old Down Country Park on June 9, 2018.
