Radiation science students decorate Ronald McDonald House

Todd Wells, left, Jessica Fehringer, and Ben Mueller, radiography juniors, trim a tree.

The Ronald McDonald House is known for being a warm, safe haven away from home for thousands of patients and their families every year. But nothing beats being in your own home during the holidays. That’s why the annual tradition of decorating the Ronald McDonald House for the holidays means so much to every one of its residents, especially the children.

On Dec. 4, nearly 40 students from the UNMC Radiation Science Education Program did the honors of decorating nine trees in the Ronald McDonald House public areas, laying out a winter scene in the large basement family room and setting up nativity scenes throughout the facility’s nooks and crannies.

The student advisory committee of the Radiation Science Education Program recently approached James Temme, director, with the idea of providing holiday cheer in the community. The students gathered at the Ronald McDonald House and, with volunteers from Dillard’s at Crossroads, finished decorating the entire house in less than half the time it took in previous years. Dillard’s at Crossroads donated the decorations.

Radiation Science students enjoy their chili after decorating the Ronald McDonald House.

Although the radiation science students participated for the joy of giving back to the community, they also enjoyed feasting on Temme’s award-winning homemade chili.

The Radiation Science Division includes radiography, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, radiation therapy, MRI/CT and CVIT.

“We have such a great bunch of students,” Temme said. “Every radiation specialty was represented. We decorated and cleaned up in record time. The students enjoyed making sure the Ronald McDonald House really got a Christmas makeover.”