We’re still reflecting on the impact of an unforgettable evening during the one-time-only VIP screening of Audrey’s Children in Southwest Virginia. Presented by The Hokie Way and supported by Valley Wealth Group and Robins & Morton, the event brought together community members, supporters, and families to celebrate a remarkable woman whose vision continues to change lives today.
As guests filled the Gradin Theatre with anticipation, Shannon Boothe, Executive Director RMHC-SWVA, set the tone for the evening with a heartfelt introduction that blended warmth, history, and purpose. She opened with a question that captured everyone’s attention:
“Alright folks—what do you get when a doctor, a football team, and a Shamrock Shake come together? Well… you’re about to find out.”
That unexpected trio led to something extraordinary. In the 1970s, Dr. Audrey Evans — a trailblazing pediatric oncologist — saw the struggles families faced while trying to stay close to their hospitalized children. Boothe reminded us:
“Dr. Audrey Evans saw families sleeping in hospital hallways, families forced to cut treatments short and children who could not access lifesaving treatments due to long distances away from specialized pediatric hospitals and decided enough was enough.”
Through partnerships with an NFL team, a fellow doctor, and a now-famous green milkshake, the first Ronald McDonald House was born in Philadelphia. What began as a single home away from home is now a global network providing comfort, support, and community to families in medical crisis.
The screening of Audrey’s Children brought Dr. Evans’ story to life — not just her medical achievements, but her unwavering heart. Boothe captured this beautifully:
“She shattered glass ceilings, challenged norms, and never took no for an answer. She reduced mortality rates for childhood cancer and forever changed how we care for children — not just with medicine, but with heart.”
For those of us who work within the Ronald McDonald House Charities family, the film offered more than inspiration — it explained the “why” behind our work. It reminded us of the real people, the original spark, and the lasting ripple effect of kindness that fuels everything we do.
“Her legacy lives on through every smile, every hug, every night a child gets to fall asleep with their parent nearby instead of in a hospital bed alone.”
In a world where families still face unimaginable medical challenges, Audrey’s Children offered more than a look back — it lit the path forward. As Boothe so powerfully concluded:
“They said impossible. We say — we’ll see about that.”
Thank you to everyone who attended, shared this moment, and continues to support the mission. Your presence helped honor the life of Dr. Audrey Evans — and helps ensure that no family ever has to choose between access to care and being together.
Beautiful pictures captured by Geoff Meza Photography (see additional pics in our Facebook Event Album)