RMHC: An Unexpected Home

Jack was born with Hirschsprung’s disease, a congenital condition affecting the large intestine. The disease can make life difficult, causing issues with passing stool and eating. In the search for treatment, Jack’s parents found a treatment program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and they decided to go for it.

After a six-hour drive from Illinois, they found themselves at their new home for the next week: the Columbus Ronald McDonald House.

While Jack’s mom, Lindsay, had heard about how family-focused and child friendly the House was through a Hirschsprung’s Facebook group, they were still blown away by the facilities, staff, and volunteers.

“I didn’t realize what a cozy feeling it would be here,” she shared. “They’ve done a good job making the rooms cozy, and you feel like you’re actually in a house.”

Making the House Their Home

The family was incredibly grateful for the activities and playrooms. If they had been in a hotel, they believe they would have been crammed with very few outlets for the kid’s energy and for social interaction. At the House, however, they always had new playrooms to check out, activities to participate in, and other families to play and talk with.

“It’s been great for a care-free getaway,” said the dad, Alex. “Jack was nervous and scared, but we came here and there’s all these fun rooms and activities. It’s a great distraction for the kids and the parents. Everything we need is here: food, activities, and shelter.”

Every day, the family tried something new. The children enjoyed the library, music room, LEGO room, movie theater, and princess room. They also loved visits from therapy dogs, playing BINGO, and creating banners with Fun with Fran.

One woman who supports the House runs a program called Quilts by Molly. Through grant funding, she is able to make quilts for children at RMHC and NCH with their drawings printed on it. During his stay here, Jack gave Molly one of his drawings, and, later, she shipped him his very own quilt (pictured below).

“There’s something for everyone here,” said Alex.

Finding Community

Additionally, Lindsay and Alex greatly appreciated being able to share their experience with other parents. Lindsay connected with other moms going through similar difficulties while they watched their children play together.

“It’s very nice to have a place like this to stay during the medical journey. Being six hours away from home, it’s so nice to have this,” she said.

Future Visits

The family will likely have to come back in the upcoming years for continued treatment, but knowing how safe and fun the House is, Alex feels confident and at ease with his wife and son returning, even if he is six hours away.

“And we’re excited to come back,” said Lindsay.

Even though Jack has to undergo medical treatment when he’s in Columbus, he and his sister’s love for the House, the friends they made, and the fun they had makes the trip worth while.

Thanks to the support of partners like you, we can provide a safe and stress-free environment for families like the Tarmanns to stay in difficult circumstances.