In 2017, Becky and Ben arrived in the pediatric intensive care unit eager to hear the condition of their daughter. Earlier that day the family was enjoying the outdoors when their 8-year-old suffered an accident and was transported emergently to Iowa Healthcare Stead Family Children’s Hospital. “The night we arrived at the hospital was very stressful and emotional. Our daughter had suffered a traumatic brain injury, and we were thrown into an unfamiliar place and situation,” recalls Becky. Amidst the chaos, the Ronald McDonald Family Room provided a respite for the family. “The Ronald McDonald Family Room staff welcomed us, showed us where things were kept, and offered to help us find hotel rooms for our extended family. We used the Ronald McDonald Family Room at the hospital several times a day to meet with family members, grab a meal or snack, or visit with staff while our daughter was sleeping or undergoing tests.”
With their daughter so critical, the Jesup, Iowa family requested to stay at the Ronald McDonald House. The room at Ronald McDonald House allowed them to get a momentary break from the hospital and catch up on some basic needs. “We stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Iowa City for 3 weeks while our daughter was hospitalized – we were able to remain close to the hospital while also getting some much-needed rest. We were able to do laundry on site and keep our two older children with us when there wasn’t a family member available. When our daughter returned for follow-up surgery, we stayed at the RMH again for 4 nights. All of this provided meals, sleep, convenience and peace of mind – physically, emotionally, and financially.” Today Marta is bright, active, and enjoying life! “We are very thankful for the availability of the room for sleeping, as well as all the amenities in the Ronald McDonald Family Room at the hospital. It is a wonderful organization!”
-The Wehrspann Family
