Failure to Thrive. At four months old, our twins, Rhett and Freya, were diagnosed after months of vomiting and poor growth. We tried everything including appointments, therapies, and specialists. My husband Mike and I slept in 45-minute shifts for months to keep up with their twelve daily feeds and
keep Freya safe from aspirating her vomit. We did this while also caring for our toddler, Tilda, and trying to give her a sense of normalcy. But we were not getting the answers we needed in Chicago.
At six months old, with two tube-fed babies, no answers, and no clear plan, I was desperate. I did so much research, which led me to one of the best pediatric feeding programs in the country, which is at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. From that first appointment at the feeding clinic, through every specialist, hospital stay, and new diagnosis since, we have found hope. I never imagined leaving home for healthcare, but I have never been more grateful.
For ten of the past twelve months, our family of five has stayed at the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio. We have seen so many milestones, big and small, and thank goodness for the Ronald McDonald House because managing treatment and regular life has been hard. Meals are provided, laundry is accessible anytime, playtime is always available, and staff members greet our children by name. This House has carried us through the hardest days and made joy possible.
Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio has given us so much more than shelter and food. It has given us stability, community, and memories we cherish. Rhett took his first steps here. We celebrated Tilda’s third birthday, Christmas, and more.
Home. Truly. That’s what the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio has been for us. We are not alone, thanks to this House and every person who contributes to this organization. Thank you for making my children’s lives possible and for keeping my family together. None of this exists without you. There is an entire world of families facing medical crises, uprooting their lives for weeks, months, and sometimes years in pursuit of life-changing treatment and a chance at the healthy childhood every child deserves. This House truly makes that possible.
This holiday season, please consider making a gift to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. For less than $10 a month, you can create a lasting impact for families in need. Your generosity provides the meals, resources, and support that make it possible for families to focus on what matters most—their children.
