In 2015, the Myers family’s world turned upside down when they faced a daunting medical journey with their precious daughter, Scarlett. Born prematurely at just 30 weeks, weighing a mere 2 lbs, Scarlett’s delicate health demanded expert care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Ebeid Children’s Hospital in Toledo. It was during this tumultuous time that Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Northwest Ohio stepped in as an unwavering pillar of support, providing far more than just a place to stay. The Myers family’s experience at RMHC became a testament to the power of compassion, unity, and hope amidst life’s darkest moments.
A Family in Need of Support
As little Scarlett fought in the NICU, her mother, Allison Myers, was confined to bed rest at Ebeid Children’s Hospital two weeks prior to her birth. For the Myers family, the road ahead was daunting, with Jerry, Scarlett’s father, having to return to work in Spencerville, Ohio. The over hour-and-a-half distance separating them from Toledo only added to their distress, but their lives took an unexpected turn when they found refuge in RMHC.
A Home-Away-From-Home
RMHC offered the Myers family far more than just a place to stay; it became their sanctuary, their home away from home. A respite from the uncertainty that loomed in the hospital corridors, RMHC provided comfort, warmth, and a sense of belonging. As they settled into their temporary abode, Allison felt a weight lifted off her shoulders. Being in such close proximity to Scarlett allowed her to be present for every milestone and struggle, knowing that her little warrior was never alone.
A Beacon of Hope
Amidst the sea of uncertainty, the families and staff at RMHC became an unwavering beacon of hope for Allison. With Spencerville feeling a world away, her hospital visits were often solitary, leaving her feeling isolated and scared. However, within the walls of RMHC, she found a compassionate community that understood her fears and offered a listening ear. The fear that once consumed her heart now felt lighter, for RMHC became more than just a place—it became a family that held them together when everything seemed to be falling apart.
Cherished Memories of the Old House
The Myers family reminisces fondly about the old Ronald McDonald House, with its cozy ambiance and unique character. It felt like stepping into a loving embrace—a place where their worries were temporarily lifted, replaced by a sense of togetherness. Even though the new House was completed in the same year, there was a special charm to the old one, an intangible magic that etched a lasting impression on their hearts.
Gratitude and Giving Back
For the Myers family, RMHC was a lifeline during Scarlett’s NICU journey. Through tearful eyes, Allison expressed her immense gratitude, “Without RMHC, we would have been in trouble. I was not going home while my baby was in the hospital.” RMHC became their lifeline, offering hope when hope seemed scarce. And now, as a way to honor that hope and pay it forward, they return each year on Scarlett’s birthday, bearing gifts and love for current families at the Ronald McDonald House.
What makes these visits even more special is Scarlett’s infectious joy in giving back. Her eyes light up as she joins her family in delivering pizza and cupcakes, knowing that she is spreading happiness to those who need it the most. Her heart brims with compassion, and she eagerly participates in collecting aluminum pull tabs to support the pantry at RMHC, understanding that even the smallest gesture can make a difference.
As they walk through the doors of the House on Scarlett’s birthday, the Myers family and little Scarlett embody the essence of love, unity, and resilience. In the midst of their own journey, they extend a helping hand, providing comfort and support to families facing similar trials. Their selflessness showcases the enduring spirit of RMHC—an ever-expanding circle of care and compassion that continues to ripple out into the world.
On Saturday, July 29, the Myers family once again made the hour-and-a-half trip up to Toledo with pizza, cupcakes, love, and smiles, standing as a symbol of the remarkable support that Ronald McDonald House Charities offers to families in their times of need. And as their story touches the hearts of readers, may it ignite a spark of compassion within each one of us—to support, to embrace, and to hold each other up when life presents its most challenging moments. Let us follow in Scarlett’s footsteps and spread love and kindness wherever we go, for it is through acts of giving back that we find strength, healing, and hope.
Consider supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio so we can provide a home-away-from-home for families traveling to Toledo for their sick children. Click the donate button in the bottom right corner to support RMHC today!