Richard + Thomas Leslie + Mason Stew + Luke
I know a lot of you are going to suggest the Ronald McDonald house. THIS IS NOT AN OPTION. They cannot accommodate us. The social workers have even tried on our behalf. Their rule is strict - 1 room per family, no exceptions. So, although they are a fabulous, generous organization, they cannot house the Low's.
We know this blog has viewers from all over the world. Does anybody have a condo in Toronto that they lease for 6 months time?? We aren't looking for a freebie. We are looking for a possible option that isn't a 12 month lease, and isn't $5000/month. You may think I am kidding, but a 6 month rental for a furnished 2 bedroom condo near the hospital runs $4000 - $5000 a month. We just booked their hotel for the chemo treatment in 3 weeks and it's $3885, for a 10 day stay...
Just to give a common example of our difficulty. Leslie came last week and had booked her hotel prior. Once Mason's tumor was found, she needed to stay longer. Her hotel was booked. So, we had to find a new location, and amidst the stress of chemo we had to move all their belongings from one condo to another.
I know you're going to ask, why doesn't she arrange to stay for 14 days all the time, and then just cancel 24 hours before she knows she can leave? These corporate condos don't work that way. You can't. You pay for what you booked, regardless of whether you left early. And all of them are a 30 day minimum stay. Which, we are willing to do at this point, to secure we have a place to stay!
If we didn't have to worry about housing, I think these trips would be more manageable and a lot less stressful for Leslie and Richard (hopefully).
So, again:
If anyone knows someone with a condo / rental / hotel connection IN DOWNTOWN Toronto, within walking distance to Sick Kids would you contact us? If you know a realtor that does lease options...or if you have another thought for us!
Again, we are not looking for a freebie! Just options that won't bankrupt the Low's. Leslie shouldn't be worrying about housing and flights. She should be able to be worrying about the health of her babies. (and, don't suggest Ronald McDonald, we've tried this route the last 3 months)
If you have an idea or possibility, here's our email contact:
lows.lowdown@gmail.com
Luke - Mason - Thomas
There's just GOT to be something that can be done for this, other than just reopening your fundraiser! Those housing prices are exorbitant! I will let ya know if I think of something.
ReplyDeleteTry airbnb
ReplyDeleteWhat about kickstarter.com? It is fundraising but I've heard it can bring in a lot.
ReplyDeleteI wish we knew of something.. Something will work out! Cutest shirts on the cutest babies!!
ReplyDeleteTry gofundme.com!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.gofundme.com/ElizaONeill
ReplyDeleteThese parents just raised over 1 million in donations from strangers for their sick daughter. Tell your story and get family and friends to spread the word and share your link! Blessings to you!
There was a similiar situation in Vancouver. "Baby Molly". The family lived on Vancouver Island and had 3 other children. The went to the local news and when the story ran someone who had a house for sale close to Children's Hospital, took it off the market and let them use it whenever they needed it. Perhaps some generous person in Toronto might do the same. Best of luck.
ReplyDeleteI didn't hear that part of their story! How generous of that homeowner! I hope the Lows find themselves experiencing similar generosity of spirit;
DeleteHave you looked at Vacation Rentals By Owner? Perhaps there is something in the area you require... www.vrbo.com
ReplyDeletePerhaps if you explain your story there may be a property owner willing to donate the use of their property. Best of luck, and prayers on your behalf!
I can't help with accommodations unfortunately however I have just shared this blog post on my facebook page, as well as the RB moms pages. I would encourage anyone reading this blog to do the same - hope that's ok with the Low family :) The more the word gets out there, the more likely they are to find a solution.
ReplyDeleteIt is ridiculous that RM House refuses to accommodate this family! With all the corporate, public and private donations to this charity, it is negligent of them not to reconsider their policy in light of this very special circumstance. I assume that there are few ,if any families with 3 children needing treatment at the same time. This issue needs to go up the corporate ladder of Ronald McDonald House to someone that is able to make a decision to accommodate and take some of the stress off of this family! Come on Board of Directors....you can do better.
ReplyDeleteI agree with cooker. Maybe go public about RM house not being able to accommodate, or even a petition. You would hope that with some pressure they might be willing to reconsider their policies.
ReplyDeleteI agree with a previous poster's suggestion of kickstarter.com. Once your story hits reddit and similar sites you'll raise the funds in no time! Stay strong! Also - your boys were born the same day as my twins! :)
ReplyDeleteHave you looked into the sublet listing on Kijiji and Craigslist? Lots of people need someone to assume their lease for 4 months or so at a time while they are away, and since it's a sublet it's fully furnished. You can also posted Wanted ads explaining what you are looking for. Example of what is available: http://www.kijiji.ca/v-short-term-rental/city-of-toronto/victorian-beauty-in-the-heart-of-downtown-queen-west/1005178268?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true
ReplyDeleteContact CITY-TV in Toronto. They run stories on Tuesdays and Thursdays and many people make contributions to help out as a result.
ReplyDeleteExcellent idea
DeleteThat last picture could be a poster for sick kids! Love them all
ReplyDeleteHave the hospital social worker book you into the Delta Chlesea Hotel. It is one block from Sick Kids and you will get a 50% discount if the hospital does the booking as opposed to you doing the booking. Also, the Sunshine Foundation and/or the Children's Miracle Foundation should well be able to provide you with some financial support. They can also reach out to the other clubs - Rotary, Lions etc.
ReplyDeleteI just had a friend post this on my FB page when I shared this post: There's a dorm building in Toronto that rents out empty dorm rooms in Kensington market area on Augusta Ave. Each room has 2 twin beds and are separated into quads (4 rooms) Each Quad shares a kitchen, livingroom, bathrooms etc. Rooms rent for under $40/ night. There's laundry on site, a restaurant / cafe they can buy a discounted meal plan for etc. They do monthly rates as well, and have an elevator (it's a high rise). I've stayed there before with my kids, it's very very clean
ReplyDeletehttps://www.sabbaticalhomes.com/ may have some options for you, best of luck
ReplyDeleteI tweeted @EatonChelseaTO and hopefully they will be in touch!
ReplyDeleteHave you tried the Bishop from the local ward? Maybe someone in the area would be able to help?
ReplyDeleteThe Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints would likely find a member that would take this family in.
DeleteHi, I'm from Citytv, someone passed your post on to us. Could you shoot me an email at espe(dot)currie(at)rci(dot)rogers(dot)com, or message me on Twitter @EspeCurrie.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to hearing your story.
contact the pediatric oncology group of ontario (www.pogo.ca), they can let you know about options and advocate for you, they also have a relationship with hotel(s) in Toronto. Also, www.sabbaticalhomes.com has listings for short-term furnished home rentals
ReplyDeleteVRBO.com, you can try this?
ReplyDeleteVRBO.com, good luck!
ReplyDeleteYou may want to look at executive rentals. Here is a link that meet some of your needs and offered two bedroom condos. http://www.glengrove.com/rates.html
ReplyDeleteWe live an hour from Toronto, but we have a vehicle you can use if you'd like to stay with us. My name is Savannah Penny and my phone number is 519-341-3545.
ReplyDeletejust spoke with someone at Chai Lifeline Toronto. They would like someone from the family to contact them asap and ask to speak with a case manager. Sounds like they may be able to help.
ReplyDeleteThe YMCA has a new affordable rental building on Elm St. Here is the link to their website - https://www.ywcatoronto.org/page.asp?pid=76
ReplyDeletePlease email me at rebecca@onthemoveto.ca . I work in real estate and can try to help :)
ReplyDeleteUniversity of Toronto residences. Open to visitors for the summer, I believe.
ReplyDeleteLink to U. of T. summer housing: http://www.housing.utoronto.ca/summer.htm
ReplyDeleteA friend suggested http://compasstocare.org/ who help support families who need to travel for cancer treatment. I'm inspired by everyone posting here. Sending hugs to this brave family with such beautiful children.
ReplyDeleteYour local community should have a fundraiser to help you pay for the financial burden. Hope you find a permanent place to stay.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure if my comment just got lost or is being moderated: but I am going to see if I can help the family by getting college accommodation at UofT, walking distance to Sick Kids. I work there! Meantime, try this:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.vicu.utoronto.ca/.../resaccommo.../guesthouse.htm
Tell them the circumstances. I'll get back to you about other options Monday.
Alex Gillespie
(heard about this through TPOMBA)
Try CottageCountry.com. They have a number of downtown properties in TO that I'm sure would negotiate a better rate for you.
ReplyDeleteHey Richard,
ReplyDeleteTry Christine Merritt cmerritt@terrequity.com she is the real estate agent who helped me find my condo in Toronto when I started med school. She might be able to help. I will see if I can find any other options for you. Good luck :)
Kate Bacon
Try contacting the Royal York and speak with management. Ask about their compassionate rates. Friends were in this situation last year and RY was incredible. Also consider contacting local Rotary clubs, Kiwanis, etc in your hometown for assistance. They may be able to offer some funding. Finally? Start an indigogo campaign. Link it to this post and the HuffPo article. There are some other charities out there that can help as well but I'm drawing a blank at the moment. I realize you aren't asking for charity but it would be great to get some financial help during this time. God bless you and your family
ReplyDeleteHave they looked into Ronald McDonald house?
ReplyDeleteHave you read the post yet? They can't stay at RMH. They need another solution as they are 3 kids & 4 adults!
DeleteI don't understand why, having stayed there ourselves, the RMH would have 4 rooms available specifically for large families such as the Lows, yet be unable to accomodate.
DeleteHi. The large family suites are booked, with a long waiting list. The RMH is a wonderful organization, and we don't want people to petition them to allow us to stay. There are so many people that need their help. We have been in touch with them, as has our social worker. It simply won't work for our group size. 1 room given per family, and our family is too big to fit due to fire code laws.
DeleteMy heart broke when I read the article from the Huffington Post on a friends FB page! What a beautiful family you have and I can't imagine there isn't someone with a little place for you to call home when you are in Toronto for frequent while brief periods of time in attending treatments and appointments for your little sweeties! I can only imagine too how lovely it would be to have a "HOME" to hang out in when needed and for all of you to return to and enjoy some family at home time when you can and need to.
ReplyDeleteWhen I shared the article from a friends page I had another friend reply almost immediately and they have sent an email your way!!! I am hoping with such a full heart that they might just have what you need! Keeping you close in heart and mind and hoping everything works out for everyone... a little miracle for your beautiful family and hoping to keep those smiling faces smiling! I'll be thinking of you!
Maybe you could sublet? Ryerson is really close to Sick Kids and a lot of students have gone home for summer or are still trying to sublet their apartments until they're back in the fall. I know it's not a perfect situation, but it would probably be more affordable.
ReplyDeleteI have not read all of the posts but I am wondering if it needs to be right beside Sick Kids, or is on the subway line ok? I know of apartments near the St. Clair West subway line that are furnished and lease on month to month basis, and are not $5000 per month. Please email me at theshapiros@rogers.com if you need more info.
ReplyDeleteI am looking into how you may be able to combine points for Marriott's, as I have a family member who works for them. In reading all of the above comments, it seems that you have some very viable options that may work out even better. I am still waiting to hear from my niece and will let you know of updates. Hopefully, this is already taken care of.
ReplyDeleteI used to rent in this building, large rooms, a/c, pool, grocery store on site, restaurant, dry cleaner http://www.wjproperties.ca/downtown_about.php maybe with some ikea furniture would work... i'm sure the building would understand regarding the shorter term lease...
ReplyDeleteCheck Sabbatical Homes. I just checked and it seems like there may be some possibilities. Warm wishes and prayers from a mom of multiple multiples. Here is the link https://www.sabbaticalhomes.com/OfferedListings.aspx?bypass=1&keywords=Toronto
ReplyDeleteWindreach farm north of whitby has accommodations maybe an option? Beautiful scenery too.
ReplyDeleteI sent you an email. Seneca College Conference Centre/Residence. If they charge you a fair monthly rate similar to what they charge students, you will be pleasantly surprised. The entire 2nd floor is dedicated to these types of leases so you will only mix with students in the elevators and in the lobby area. 2 bedrooms in a unit, plus your own bathroom, stocked kitchenette with full fridge, and on-floor laundry. There is parking available as well. http://www.stayrcc.com/properties/view/index/Toronto/Extended%20Stay/
ReplyDeleteMy good friend Michael Shuster is a real estate agent. I shared on his Facebook page and he is going to see if he can find anything
ReplyDeleteI know you don't want a freebie but 100s of people are already posting this on Facebook, I read your story in the Toronto Star in March and you could get a lot of help on kickstarter or another crowdsourcing site. It isn't "getting a freebie", it is people like me who don't know anyone who can help but would love to help and even $20 at a time, you could fund staying somewhere decent!!
ReplyDeleteWe do have a fundraiser, but we aren't soliciting for donations. People have been so generous we don't want people to feel like they really need to donate.
Deletehttp://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/born-together-buddies-forever/144429
You could also try contacting Princess Margaret Hospital, they likely find people in similar circumstances and they always seem to find condos for their lottery... maybe there is one that could be lent out instead?!?!?!
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I live in a 3 bedroom house in Mississauga and we would be more than happy to let you stay in the other 2 rooms for free at our house as long as you need to. Mississauga is about 30 minutes from Toronto and we would also drive you there when we can. You can reach me at alvarodltv@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI can't help you out with accommodations unfortunately, but I would be glad to offer your family free babysitting when you are in Toronto! I have been babysitting/nannying for years and love working with kids more than anything in the world. I am currently studying to become a pediatric nurse. I have plenty of references that I can put you in contact with, including one who is a nurse at SickKids. If you're interested, please send me an email! lscholl@yorku.ca
ReplyDeleteMy heart is full reading all these helpful posts. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteUsually you don´t need to be walking distance to the hospital, so I suggest you look at rentals/leases in the Marlee Ave area, between Eglinton and Lawrence Ave. The area is serviced by 3 subway stops, Eglinton Ave W, Glencairn and Lawrence Ave W, which is about 20 minutes by subway to sick kids hospital, with no transfers required. The area is also very reasonable in terms of prices, probably about $1300+ for 2 bedrooms. You can use craigslist.org to use the map function and try and locate something in the area. Wishing the best of luck, health and happiness.
ReplyDeleteHere are a few options I found which may fit the bill.
Deletehttp://toronto.craigslist.ca/tor/apa/4539920362.html
http://toronto.craigslist.ca/tor/apa/4579775506.html
Again, I don´t know the details about having to be walking distance to the hospital, but when one of my family members had to be treated for cancer at Mt. Sinai, it was a "day" trip to the hospital, waiting around there until everything was done, and then back home, so walking distance may not be beneficial in the end. Total walking distance to-from subway stops is also minimal, considering Sick Kids is accesible from Queen´s Park or St Patrick subway station, on the Yonge-University Subway Line.
Sample Route Option with TTC Subway, less than 20 minutes travel.
Deletehttps://goo.gl/maps/88up8
From what I gather talking to them, walking distance is very beneficial and ideal because when you have three babies that are sick, not just one, you have different appintment times and are back and forth lots. You switch off with different family members. And two other babies cannot hang out at the hospital while one receives treatment. It'd be crazy. Great suggestions but this may just provide a little insight to why walking distance is almost a must
DeleteHi Richard and Leslie,
ReplyDeleteI work for DelSuites (www.delsuites.com / a division of Tridel). I just read your blog this morning and our company would like to see if we can assist in providing accommodation for your family. Please feel free to contact me on cnorton@delsuites.com and hopefully we can assist in some way.
Thank you
Cliff Norton
Cliff, People like you give me faith in humanity. <3.
Delete~Susie
Check pout Gilda's club.
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteWe are from Nova Scotia and I have a cousin who's child goes to Toronto's sick kids for medical care. Our provincial health care plan covers her airfare and accommodations while there. It wouldn't hurt to check your provincial health care plan to see if they have a similar program. Best of luck, I will be thinking of you and your beautiful family.
For the summer, would this work? Its a student residence near Ryerson. But probably not a long-term option as they just have the hotel for the summer. Also the space might not work. But worth taking a look at their website maybe:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.neill-wycik.com/
I have a one bedroom plus den condo, furnished you can rent for $ 1,500 a month.
ReplyDeleteIt is downtown about an 8 min drive or 18 min transit away from Sick Kids.
I just emailed you about it and included by phone number in my email.
Feel free to call me any time.
I just started following your journey here...wow.....bless you all...I've spent many a day/week/month at sick kids in TO..so know what you are going through....I pray you find accommodations...we used to stay across the street at the George Brown College..but that was a few years back and maybe not an option anymore...I think the top 3 floors were for sick kids families...we are praying for your beautiful family!!!! and your darling babies...
ReplyDeleteHi Leslie & Emily, my heart goes out to you and your family. I have sent an email to your gmail account with a suggestion. Please let me know what you think.
ReplyDeleteYou may want to consider relocation hotels. I paid 130.00 hospital rate when I was spending a lot of time at sick kids. 130.00 x21=2730. You can save a lot of money staying there and be walking distance to the hospital. Not many know of the rates. My thoughts and prayer and with your family and children during this time. Also hospital may be able to set u up at Ronald McDonald house.
ReplyDeleteSending prayers and love to you all.
ReplyDeleteI sent an email to the Shriners
DeleteI so much hope you find accommodation and don't have to pay. I understand you don't want freebies but you have all been through enough and should not have to worry about finances. I am hopeful that a hotel chain will be able to accommodate you. God bless your wonderful family. I will be thinking of you.
ReplyDeleteI found a PR contact for Marriott
ReplyDeleteif everyone wrote to her perhaps it will catch her attention
this is what i am writing to her
feel free to copy
Hi Ayanna,
I am emailing you today to tell you about a family in need. Their triplet boys have a rare cancer of the eye. They are seeking treatment at Sick Kids Hospital in downtown Toronto. However they are struggling with the cost of having three children undergoing chemo.
They need accommodations for 6 months downtown. I believe this would be a great opportunity for Marriott to step in and give back to the community. They are not asking for a freebie but if the Marriott could give them a hefty discount it would be so appreciated, not just by the family but by all of their supporters.
For more information please visit their website: http://www.lows-lowdown.blogspot.ca/2014/07/accomodations.html?m=1
ayanna.alleyne@marriot.com
My sister in law lives in Toronto and her friend has two rooms available in her home. Please contact me and I will put you in touch ASAP. Christina.mcwilliams1@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteIs Ronald McDonald House Toronto an option? We stayed at the one in Philadelphia for $15/night after my son's accident. They provided accommodations, many meals, a place to do laundry etc.
ReplyDeleteHere is the link: http://www.rmhtoronto.org/who-we-are
They've tried for months, but RMH insists on one room per family, no exceptions. They don't feel they can fit four adults and three babies into just one room. Apparently, the babies won't be staying in the hospital unless they get the bone marrow transplants; until that happens, they need to all be staying together, near the hospital for the babies' exams and treatments. Once they get the transplants, they'd have to be in isolation for a while, so then the room will have more space for the four adults, but it would still be rough, as you can imagine.
DeleteThis is Toronto. What's so bad about putting 4 adults in a room for that price? The other option is to get a rental and pay what everyone else pays.
DeleteAnd where do you suggest they put the babies? In the living room or the kitchen? RMH rooms are subject to fire codes that limit the occupants per room. RMH has strict policy of one room per family (they have tried!) to ensure they can help as many families as possible. Any better ideas?
DeleteLow family, I wish there was something I can do to help with accommodations, but I do not live in the TO. area.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I can share this post on my various social media outlets, in hopes someone who can help will see it.
Also, if you have some kind of fundraising site to help with costs for living expenses, transportation and care for you wee ones, I would like to contribute. It would not be much due to my own medical costs, but I am sure others would like to contribute and each little bit can help.
I wish you and you children all the best. Sending positive thoughts your way.
Looks like you've had a lot of response -in case it's helpful, here's another: try Tartu College, 310 Bloor West, (416) 925-4747. Nice and close and might have space at reasonable cost.
ReplyDeleteReasonable parking rates may be available behind Mt Sinai on Murray st. The green lot, not the red, has their office around the corner on elm st (222 I think but the lot attendant can assist you) a few years ago when our son was in treatment they quietly offered us a monthly pass with in and our privileges THATS THE BIGGIE for around 200. best of luck.
ReplyDeleteDoes this help at all? http://www.canadianhotelguide.com/Hotels-near-Sick-Kids-Hospital-Toronto.html
ReplyDeleteThere are many families living in Toronto. Trying to live in the expensive part would be nice but obviously this is too much for you. I would suggest living / staying/ renting / hoteling up north along the subway route. You would be surprised that living 15 minutes away by subway can be just as convenient as living a 15 minute walk away but cost half as much. I've lived downtown and to do it I've shared rooms. I know this is inconvenient but perhaps try sharing a room at the McDonald house. Pretend its like camping. I have a large family now too and everyone in Toronto pays the same high rates.
ReplyDeleteIt is not about WANTING to live in expensive parts of Toronto (not asking for Rosedale or Forrest Hill!) but NEEDING to be within walking distance to the hospital. The babies have different treatments and schedules, and the Lows need to go back and forth several times a day! Yes, rent along the subway line is cheaper but would you subject your immune compromised baby (who may just have had chemo) to the subway crowd? In the winter? As for the "pretend it's like camping" comment, obviously: (a) you've never been to RMH and (b) you don't know anyone with triplets! 4 adults + 3 babies is NOT inconvenient. It is impossible! So while your comments are appreciated, please for a moment put yourself in their situation. What would you do?
DeleteTo clarify, impossible for 4 adults + 3 babies to share a room in RMH because of the fire code.
DeleteThe marriott residence inns are fantastic....what about asking people to donate their reward points....I will happily give you mine
ReplyDeleteWe can donate ours too. Great idea.
ReplyDeleteI am writing from Oxford Properties and we would like to offer a two bedroom furnished apartment within a short distance of the hospital free of charge for the six months you require.
ReplyDeletePlease contact me at cmcintyre@oxfordproperties.com.
Claire
Claire, that is amazing offer. I have never been prouder to be an OMERS alumni (Capital Markets). My warmest regards to everyone at Oxford!
DeleteIf you are interested in staying at my place please let me know as I leave this Friday.
ReplyDeleteLike I said...no charge at all.
Natalia.vucina@gmail.com
Hi there. I see you have some generous offers this morning. If they don't work out for what ever reason, contact me....I am aToronto Realtor.
ReplyDeleteJoey LoVecchio 416-937 2731 text or call..... or jlovecchio@sympatico.ca or www.notyouraveragejoe.ca
Does my heart good to see such generosity and selflessness. Sounds like more than one of the offers posted ought to meet the Lows' needs. Thank God for the internet, right? And thank God for good people. :D
ReplyDelete