If These Walls Could Talk
The Dreamer Apartment
Opened in May 2018
The vision of the Yellow Door Foundation grew when it opened its second apartment, The Dreamer Apartment, in May 2018. The Dreamer Apartment is sponsored by a long-time friend of JoAnne McTague’s family and named in memory of JoAnne’s father whose passion was the “I Have a Dream” program that tutored children in Southeast Washington, D.C. (Apparently, the apple did not fall far from the tree when it comes to supporting causes benefitting children).
Dreamer went through some renovations receiving new cabinetry, paint, furnishings and appliances in early 2025. Since opening its doors, this one-bedroom, one-bath apartment has served as the home of 30 families. Many transplant families have felt comfort within its walls. It acts as a refuge for children and their families facing life-threatening illness.
Current Resident
Lilia
At just four months old, Lilia is facing challenges no child should have to endure. What initially appeared to be dehydration led to the discovery of kidney failure and a diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria type 1, an extremely rare genetic condition affecting only 1 to 3 people in a million.
Today, Lilia is receiving continuous dialysis at UVA Health Children’s while awaiting a life-changing liver and kidney transplant.