For the Clark family from Lyons, OH, their journey with the Ronald McDonald House began in 2021, when their first daughter, Chelsea, was born prematurely at just 28 weeks. McKenzie Clark, battling severe preeclampsia, was critically ill, and Chelsea’s early arrival marked the start of an intense three-month stay in the NICU. It was an experience that would profoundly shape the family’s perspective on the challenges of premature birth and the vital role of the Ronald McDonald House.
Fast forward to 2024, when McKenzie and Cody Clark found themselves once again preparing for the premature arrival of their children—this time, twin daughters, Lenora and Callie. Given McKenzie’s high-risk pregnancy, the family knew that another NICU stay was likely. “Knowing ahead of time made us more calm,” McKenzie recalls. “We had already learned so much from our time with Chelsea, and we knew we were in good hands with the NICU staff.”
Lenora and Callie were born at 33 weeks and 6 days, with Lenora weighing 4lbs 12 oz and Callie at 4lbs 1 oz. The twins required specialized care in the NICU, a familiar but no less daunting situation for the Clarks. However, this time around, they had a sense of preparedness, thanks in part to their previous experience.
The Ronald McDonald House in Toledo played a crucial role in providing the family with the support they needed during this challenging time. “With Chelsea, we were isolated due to COVID protocols, but the Ronald McDonald House staff was truly amazing. Even though there were restrictions, we made our room feel like home,” McKenzie shares. The House became a sanctuary for the Clarks, offering not only a place to stay but also a community of care and compassion.
The family’s second stay at the Ronald McDonald House was markedly different, as it allowed them to engage more with other families. “With the twins, it was a lot more social. We got to know the other families on a personal level, and it was great to support each other,” McKenzie adds.
For Chelsea, now three and a half years old and thriving despite her own premature birth, the Ronald McDonald House was a place of comfort and joy. The House provided a playroom where Chelsea could interact with other children, and the playground offered a much-needed break from the stress of the NICU. “She made friends at the House, which really helped her cope,” McKenzie says. “Having her own bed and quick, easy food options, especially for a picky eater, was amazing.”
Beyond the immediate support, the Ronald McDonald House created lasting memories for the Clark family. Special events like the Taylor Automotive food truck festival, complete with bounce houses and video game trucks, provided a welcome distraction and a sense of normalcy during a difficult time. “You want to be home, but the Ronald McDonald House goes above and beyond to make you feel like you’re at home,” McKenzie notes. “The Taylor Automotive event gave our whole family something to do and a break from the struggles of the NICU,” Cody added.
Reflecting on their experience, Cody describes the Ronald McDonald House as a “second home, a home-away-from-home.” He adds, “The atmosphere between the staff, volunteers, and other families is heartwarming. It really stands out as an organization. I knew it was something special the moment we got there.”
The Clarks are now back home, adjusting to life with three children under four. “The twins are growing every day, which is all we can ask for,” McKenzie says with relief. Chelsea has embraced her role as the protective big sister, and the family is cherishing their time together.
The Clarks’ story is a testament to the importance of NICU awareness and the invaluable support provided by the Ronald McDonald House. “If the Ronald McDonald House wasn’t there, we would probably go into a huge amount of debt,” McKenzie says with a light-hearted laugh, though the underlying truth is serious. “Our three-year-old would have had to stay with family, which would have been tough on her and us.”
Cody echoes this sentiment: “Being in a hospital gets pretty exhausting. Having a place to stay was such a lifesaver, especially with Chelsea.”
The Clark family’s journey has inspired them to give back. “We had family and friends collect over 200 pounds of pop tabs after our first stay. We wanted to do anything we could to support that organization,” Cody shares.
As September marks NICU Awareness Month, the Clark family’s story reminds us all of the incredible impact that the Ronald McDonald House has on families during some of their toughest times. “The Ronald McDonald House supported us through some of the toughest times of our lives,” McKenzie says. “It’s a loving community that provides hope when you need it most.”
For families like the Clarks, the Ronald McDonald House is more than just a place to stay—it’s a home-away-from-home with a loving and supportive community. Help us support more families like the Clarks with a donation to RMHC Northwest Ohio by clicking here.