Joanne Lindholm photo Golden K chairperson Candy Buchcuski introduces guest speaker Stacey Lantagne. She gave presentation about her grandson, Ezra, and the support of The Ronald McDonald House.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Stepping up to the podium, first time chairperson for the Golden K, Candy Buchcuski, met the challenge head-on. It was obvious by her leadership and ease that she is not a stranger to public speaking.

With gavel in hand, she led the group through opening ceremonies with a definite purpose in mind. Pianist Alyce Derwinski always comes prepared with a list of songs. She hands them off to Richard Ochoa and together they have the seniors singing. Tunes began with “This Land is Your Land,” “Who’s Sorry Now,” and ended on a bright note with “You Are My Sunshine.”

The welcome song was sung for Stacey Lantangne and Bill Roberts picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Members were reminded of the Valentine’s party Feb. 17 for the children with special needs on. Preparations will begin at 9 a.m. In the event of bad weather, gift bags will still be put together and distributed to the various schools.

Chairperson Buchcuski introduced her daughter and the day’s guest speaker, Stacey Lantagne. Lantagne runs a Crafts on Central in Florence, Wis. About one year ago, her family was faced with tragedy and incredible challenge as her grandson, Ezra, began having seizures from an unknown cause. Today’s presentation took us on a journey of hope and support that gave Ezra the opportunity to survive and thrive.

At the forefront of the tale is the tremendous support of the community through The Ronald McDonald House. Lantagne led us through a PowerPoint presentation of the story. After a seemingly simple fall, Ezra went into seizures and the family quickly realized something was terribly wrong. After some testing, the local hospital determined the child needed advanced care. He was airlifted to Milwaukee Children’s Hospital.

Ezra was fighting for his life and the family was in a state of uncertainty. As medical personnel desperately attempted to diagnose the problem, finding a place to stay became necessary.

Attached to the hospital was The Ronald McDonald House, which quickly became their home away from home.

The Ronald McDonald House is a worldwide program with more than 180,000 volunteers. They have more than 1,000 programs, including a home away from home that provides comfort, support and resources to families who travel far from home for the medical care of their child. The property had several statues of the famous clown mascot, which give a feeling that his spirit was watching over them.

Lantagne shared her family’s experience and why the RMH is so important to families in medical crises. Being able to focus on a child’s recovery rather than worrying about where they can sleep, eases some of the stress. RMH offers a place to stay and many other amenities such as meals, transportation, and emotional support. There was a playroom for kids, so they could forget the hospital concerns for a while. Laundry facilities, quiet areas, computers, printers, coffee bars and to-go lunches are just a few of the things offered to make the experience easier for families.

Upon check-in, the parents were given a token. It could be redeemed upon the release of their child from the hospital. The child is able to take the token to the “Wish Room” and pick out any toy they choose. Ezra has returned home and is happily running about as every child should. He is doing well and the family is hopeful he will continue to lead a good life.

The famous arches are not just about food. It is also a community of dedicated people focusing on helping children and families get through a medical crisis.

Because of their experience, the Lantagne family along with their community began a “giving back” crusade. They collected donations and pop can tabs to donate to RMH. Through fundraising efforts they transported three loaded vehicles of needed items to RMH in Milwaukee.

In addition, the entire family pitched in to provide an authentic, home-cooked Italian dinner for about 80 people housed at the center. They continue to collect donated items and are grateful for the prayers and support they have received.

More information and ways to help can be found on the RMH website at https://rmhc.org/

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.