Madison, WI — August 25, 2026 — Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison (RMHC-Madison) celebrated a record-breaking $468,000 raised at this year’s Red Shoe Soirée and Madison Golf Outing, an annual, two-day signature event.
The evening opened with remarks from CEO Stephanie Hayden and Ronald McDonald, who underscored the growing need for RMHC-Madison’s services as Madison continues to expand as a leader in pediatric healthcare.
Guests were deeply moved as Tori Kuehn, an RMHC-Madison mom, shared her family’s journey. Kuehn spoke about her daughter Alli’s medical challenges and the vital support RMHC-Madison provided to her entire family, including sons Evan and Owen.
At just four weeks old, Alli was transferred to American Family Children’s Hospital when she could no longer breathe safely on her own. Doctors later diagnosed her with laryngeal stenosis – a narrowing of the voice box that restricts airflow and makes breathing difficult.
After months of questions and uncertainty, doctors determined that Alli would require a trach to breathe safely. Tori shared she felt like she was “trying to walk a tightrope in a windstorm.” She spent every moment overwhelmed, juggling Alli’s medical needs while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for her sons.
Tori shared, “RMHC-Madison instantly traded the sterile, clinical isolation of the hospital for a feeling of home. In the middle of a deeply isolating experience, RMHC-Madison made me feel seen, supported, and fiercely protected.”
Throughout Kuehn’s speech, guests were moved by her sincerity and appreciation—and charmed by Alli’s energetic, bubbly presence.
Following the Kuehn family’s inspiring story, sponsors, guests, and volunteers raised their paddles high during the live auction and live appeal – generously giving at various levels to support families staying at the House.
For families at RMHC-Madison, the $468,000 raised will fund more than 2,900 nights of comfort and care – ensuring families can stay close to their child during critical moments.
RMHC-Madison hosts three signature events each year to support its mission of providing comfort and care for families while their child receives medical treatment. To sponsor an event or support the mission, visit rmhcmadison.org.
