The Bidwell Family’s Journey with Ronald McDonald House Columbus
When the road of life throws unexpected twists and turns in your child’s health, finding a supportive and caring place to take a break from that hectic trip can make all the difference. For Rick, Amber, and Arianna Bidwell of Heath, Ohio, the Ronald McDonald House (RMHC) in Columbus became a pit stop more than once during their son’s difficult medical journey. Their story is a testament to the warmth and compassion that RMHC offers to families navigating the difficult journey of caring for a seriously ill child.
Meet the Bidwell Family
Rick, Amber, and Arianna Bidwell, from Heath, Ohio, are a close-knit family who have faced extraordinary challenges with their son, Bo. He was eight years old when Bo began undergoing treatment by the Short Bowel and Colorectal teams at Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH). He endured numerous complex surgeries over the next few years. The Bidwell family found their home-away-from-home at the Ronald McDonald House.
Rick, a proud member of the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, Ohio Legends Chapter, has found support in his community of law enforcement and emergency service personnel. Made up of dedicated law enforcement, other first responders, and their friends, this club has been a pillar of strength for Rick and his family.
A Lifeline During Difficult Times
The Bidwells say their family’s first experience with RMHC in November of 2019 was during a particularly intense period. Bo stayed at the House briefly, and his parents found solace in the comforting environment it provided. The family’s stays were not one-time events; they returned to the House twice, with their longest stay lasting about a month and a half. Amber says the comfort and proximity to NCH during these critical times were invaluable.
Cherished Memories
When reflecting on their time at RMHC, the Bidwells recall the profound impact of the compassionate individuals they encountered. Amber Bidwell shares,
“Everyone was so warm and caring. They made sure you had everything you needed. Sometimes that was just being seen and acknowledged with a warm smile by the front desk workers. The volunteers providing meals and kind words were always amazing as well.”
These everyday moments of kindness and empathy provided a much-needed sense of normalcy and support amidst the chaos of hospital visits and medical treatments.
A Community of Support
Rick’s involvement with the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club has extended beyond his personal experiences. Recently, the Bidwell family participated in a special fundraiser organized by the club to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. The event began at Farrow’s Harley Davidson near Brice, Ohio, and concluded with a heartfelt gathering at the Ronald McDonald House. The fundraiser, which raised an impressive $6,000, featured a silent auction and delicious offerings from a couple of food trucks, creating a festive atmosphere for all involved. That brings the total raised by the biker group over the last few years to more than $15,000. Adding to the excitement, the bikers, including Rick and his fellow club members, enjoyed a police motorcycle escort as they passed by Nationwide Children’s Hospital on their way to RMHC. This show of support was a powerful reminder of the community rallying behind families in need.
The Value of a Home Away from Home
The Bidwell family deeply appreciated the practical benefits of staying at RMHC. Having a place to shower, enjoy a meal that wasn’t hospital food, and get a good night’s sleep were crucial for their well-being. For Amber, the ability to have her oldest daughter close by during Bo’s longest hospitalization was particularly meaningful. “Being able to have her close was such a blessing. Their dad and I could swap out easier and we could just be together as a family during those really long days. We will always sing the praises of the RMH!”
A Grateful Heart
The Ronald McDonald House Columbus meant more than just a place for the Bidwell family; it was a beacon of hope and a source of essential support during their challenging journey. The warmth, care, and practical assistance provided by RMHC made a lasting impact on their lives, and they remain grateful for the comfort and closeness the House provided them during a tough time for their son’s road to medical care.
The Bidwell family’s story, alongside the support from the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and the successful fundraiser, highlights the importance of community and compassion. The Ronald McDonald House Columbus has been a sanctuary for families like the Bidwells, offering a place for rest, care, and hope while on the road to better health for their young family members. Like many families, they remain appreciative even though the years have passed since they’ve stayed at the House. Bo is now a teenager and living a healthy life with his family in Licking County, Ohio.
