Adam, Jennifer, and Annabel came to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio in the summer of 2023 when Lucy was born 7 weeks early. With Lucy having to stay at a nearby hospital while she recovered, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio entered the Thieroff family’s life and provided a home away from home.
The Thieroff family are from Pemberville, Ohio, 40 minutes away from Toledo. While Lucy recovered in the NICU, the Thieroff family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for 38 nights.
Not having to travel 40 minutes each way daily, saved the Thieroff family time and money that they would’ve spent if they commuted from home. Having the Ronald McDonald House alleviated a lot of stress that they didn’t have. Adam described how beneficial RMHC was, “RMHC saved us tons on stress, anxiety, money, and so much more. It became our home and we don’t know what life would be like without RMHC.”
Adam and Jennifer has fond memories of his time at RMHC, specifically with their daughter, Annabel.
“While one of us was up in the NICU with Lucy, the other would be with Annabel at RMHC,” says Adam. “I loved my memories with Annabel in the playroom. Whether it was crafting, playing with toys, or having fun on the playground, they were all fond memories that we were able to create. It allowed Annabel to be a big sister.”
The Thieroff family’s experience at RMHC wasn’t just about physical proximity to Lucy; it was a holistic approach to family care. Adam explains, “All the staff was amazing. Carol was a sweetheart. She was the first person we met when we walked in the doors. Right away, big happy smile full of love.”
Today, Lucy is thriving, and recently celebrated her first Halloween, while Annabel revels in her role as a proud big sister. Looking back, the Thieroff family recognizes the unique time capsule that their stay at RMHC provided. “It allowed us to focus on our family without worrying about the logistics of daily life,” Jenny reflects.
In essence, RMHC became a loving place filled with loving people. Adam concludes, “It’s not just a pop tab place; it’s a necessity and a wonderful organization. I’ve heard about RMHC for years. You knew it was a place for families with sick kids. But I never realized the importance until we needed it.”
The Thieroff family’s journey is a testament to the impact RMHC can have on families during challenging times. Their story is a reminder of the support, comfort, and love that organizations like RMHC provide when families need it the most. On November 14, the Thieroff family was recognized as the “famILY of the game” during the Battle of I-75 featuring the Bowling Green State University Falcons and the University of Toledo.
