By DJ and Michelle Viands
On September 4, 2012, our view on life changed. Our trust and faith in God changed. After five weeks of bed rest and six long days of labor (trying to stop it), our son, Bryson Tripp Viands, was born at just 25 weeks gestation. Bryson was almost four months early, weighing only 1 lb. 11 oz. His right eye was still fused shut, but he was here and ready to show us what a miracle truly is. He was ready to show us that he was a fighter and that he was ready to ride the NICU rollercoaster. God had great plans for our baby and we put our trust in Him.
We lived two hours away and the social worker at the hospital told us not to worry, that the Columbus Ronald McDonald House would give us a place to stay so we could be close to our son at a time he needed us the most. Praise God! We didn’t have to be overwhelmed with worry on how we were going to pay for a hotel and meals. Our focus could stay on our top priority, our son. We already knew we were blessed by the birth of Bryson, but the Ronald McDonald House was another blessing given to us.
Bryson was in the NICU for a little over three months as his little body and lungs grew stronger. Because of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio, we were able to be there by his side every step of the way in his NICU journey.
The Ronald McDonald House not only gave us a place to stay, but they gave us comfort, love and sometimes even a shoulder to cry on. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio not only fed our tummies with their wonderful meals, but they fed our souls and hearts with unconditional love and giving. It was a place that had so many other families that were worried and scared. Not all of the families had premature babies, but we all had sick children and it helped to hear their stories and comfort one another.
On December 8, 2012, we brought Bryson home from the NICU and said our thank yous and goodbyes to the Columbus Ronald McDonald House staff and volunteers. Since we have been back home, Bryson has undergone a couple of surgeries and treatments, and like before, the Ronald McDonald House welcomed us with open arms. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio is truly a wonderful place and a home away from home. We are so grateful for all they have done for us.