Former Lake George law office now welcoming retreat for kids with cancer

LAKE GEORGE – A first of its kind retreat designed for families of children battling life-threatening illnesses is being called a smashing success.

The Ronald McDonald family retreat in Lake George is just what the doctor ordered for sick kids.

They’re doing important work, turning a former law office into home base for a much-needed Lake George family vacation.

They go there after their child has endured treatment, or worse, couldn’t beat back the disease. This place, just one block off Canada Street, and two blocks from the lake, is providing a respite to families who can really use a break.

It took almost three years to go from idea to fully functional retreat. Now the Ronald McDonald family retreat is up and running and providing a sanctuary for kids and their parents and siblings.

A hundred people volunteered and dozens donated materials to turn the old law office into a bright and welcoming place to get away from the disease and all the challenges that come with it.

"That’s really what it’s all about. That’s what being able to have that time where families can just spend the time together, relax and the village of Lake George has been unbelievably supportive. They see our families walking down the street and folks are coming out of the shops saying, ‘Come on in, we want to help take care of you here,’" said David Jacobsen, the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region.

There are 379 Ronald McDonald Houses in 61 countries, but this is the first retreat.

Hear from families about what a stay there meant to them, by watching the video of Mark Mulholland’s story.