Filling The Gap for all Families, like the Reynersons
“To be able to receive that level of care here and to stay close and be there for all aspects of his care while he was in the NICU really made it a home away from home.” – Hannah Reynerson, mom to Robbie.
In August 2021, first-time parents Hannah and Russell Reynerson anxiously awaited the arrival of their son, Robbie. After Robbie was born, He was diagnosed with Meconium Aspiration and would spend the next eight days on a ventilator. Despite treatment, Robbie would experience a 3-week stay in the NICU, 16 miles away from his new home. After being discharged from delivery, Hannah was no longer a patient in the same hospital, and the Reynersons needed an option allowing them to remain close to Robbie.
The NICU team told Hannah and Russell about the Ronald McDonald Family Room. It was located an elevator ride away from Robbie’s NICU room, where they would stay for 21 nights until Robbie’s lungs were strong enough to go home.
“It was great to be able to be so close, to get to his feedings, his touch times, and just be available. The parent being there and being involved in the child’s care really helps with their healing and the progress they make,” says Hannah.
At the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Hannah and Russell appreciated being just minutes away from Robbie’s medical care. Russell shared that the meals provided offered them one less thing to consider as they focused on Robbie’s health.
“The Ronald McDonald House fills a gap that nobody wants to be in,” said Russell Reynerson.
One less decision families have to make every day is essential. Russell shared that the Family Room has been a “night and day difference,” offering the family the comfort of being minutes away and not an hour round-trip from Robbie.
“We hope to never stay here again. But the fact of the matter is it’s going to happen. And people standing in that gap and taking care of those families and giving the extra needed support in that time is critical.” -Russell Reynerson.
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