12 Jun Boril’s Journey
June 12, 2025 — “The Ronald McDonald House was more than a shelter; it was our support, our strength, our family away from home.”
We are honored to share the story of Boril, as told by his mom. He is a brave young boy who received a multi-visceral transplant at Jackson Memorial Hospital. His family traveled from Bulgaria to seek life-saving care and found more than just treatment; they found a second home at the Ronald McDonald House. Boril’s mom shares the journey of hope, resilience, and the community that helped carry them through.
“Our son’s name is Boril. He is a true warrior. Life presented him with a tremendous challenge: he needed a multi-visceral transplant, a highly complex and rare procedure. The only place where he could receive this life-saving treatment was Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. For our family, that meant leaving our home and coming here, full of hope for a new beginning for our child. We first came to Miami in 2022 for Boril’s transplant evaluation. We returned in January 2023 for treatment and stayed until December 2024. For nearly two years, the Ronald McDonald House was our home. This House was so much more than a place to stay. It was our refuge during the most uncertain and difficult time of our lives. It gave us peace, warmth, and a deep sense of belonging when everything else felt far away.
Without a doubt, the people made all the difference. The staff, the volunteers, and the other families created a caring, compassionate environment that lifted us up on the hardest days. Small acts of kindness gave us strength and reminded us that we weren’t alone. Being just steps away from the hospital meant we could be by Boril’s side at any moment, during emergencies, surgeries, or simply when he needed a hug. We didn’t have to worry about transportation, housing, or meals; we could focus entirely on him. That made all the difference. Yes, we made lifelong friends with other families going through similar journeys. Together, we shared not only our fears but also our hopes, our small victories, and moments of joy that we will always carry in our hearts.”
– Gergana Yankova, 2025