Tomorrow is McHappy Day at McDonald’s restaurants and it’s a good excuse to indulge in some fast food. Proceeds from certain menu items will be going to the Ronald McDonald House charity. The house is a home away from home for families going through their hardest days.

At just 9 years old, Tristan Romeo has gone through more than most could imagine. In 2015 he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, he’s under gone 3 surgeries and too many procedures to remember. Hamilton is a long way from home for this Fort Erie area family, which is an hour and a half drive one way. Ronald McDonald house, next to McMaster Children’s Hospital became their home.

This past year the House provided a respite for 750 families. Some families live here for over a year.

“I always say that the one thing these families have in common is that they never expected to be here” says Ronald McDonald House CEO, Catherine Bridgman. “Its always a surprise. Whether its a critical diagnosis, or a premature birth or accident. Its always a surprise to the families.”

That’s why families who live further than 45 kilometres away are made to feel right at home. With beautiful kitchens, fresh prepared meals, common areas, game rooms, even a movie theatre and 41 bedrooms.

May 2nd is McHappy Day, $1 from every Big Mac, Happy Meal and hot beverage sold at McDonald’s will go to Ronald McDonald House.