For Danielle Ragen and Matthew Lowe, it was just a normal Wednesday night and they were ready to leave for a Detroit Tigers’ baseball game. Danielle felt some discomfort and pain in her stomach and that’s when the Ragen/Lowe family decided to go to Bellevue Hospital for a check-up. Shortly after, doctors decided that at 32 weeks pregnant, Danielle was to give birth to her baby boy, Daxton, on July 6.
Once Daxton was stable, Bellevue Hospital was able to transport him to the Toledo Children’s Hospital where he has been monitored since. Danielle, Matthew and their 3-year-old daughter Brooklyn arrived shortly after and began their stay at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio.
“We knew of the Ronald McDonald House, but we didn’t fully understand what they provide for families,” said Danielle. “Brooklyn thinks it is a big hotel; she loves it.” Matthew added, “The Ronald McDonald House has been a real blessing to our family. Not having to find daycare or travel two hours a day really allows us to focus on Daxton.”
Family support has also been a huge asset to the Ragen/Lowe family over the last couple of weeks. Friends and neighbors have mowed their lawn, as well as family members have checked in on their home, collected mail, and done countless other acts of kindness.
When asked about which room is her favorite, Brooklyn is quick to say, “My favorite room is the playroom where I get to play with the baby dolls.” Brooklyn has been a noticeable fan of the playground and playroom, always with a smile and enjoying the amenities that are provided.
The Ragen/Lowe family went home on August 8, 2022. “We are over-the-moon grateful for what Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio has provided us, but we’re excited to go home,” said Matthew.
At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio, we provide comfort, care and support, so families can focus on the thing that matters most, being close to their hospitalized children. Consider making a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio so that we can support families like the Ragen and Lowe family in their time of need.
Donate HERE.