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In Their Own Words

Dear RMHC Supporter, 

When our triplets, Oliver, Grace, and Audrey were born, the hospital prepared us to care for multiple infants, including how to manage a crisis. But we never expected that at only nine months old, Audrey would stop breathing.

I performed CPR while Holly called 911.

After a few days at our local hospital in Bend, Audrey was flown to Portland and admitted to Doernbecher Children's Hospital, where doctors determined she had two cysts in her airway. She needed surgery, which meant that we might be in Portland for several weeks.

We were overwhelmed by Audrey's condition. And we were worried - about how to keep our family together and about the large medical bills we'd be facing. Audrey's siblings, Oliver and Grace, still needed us, too.

Fortunately, we found the Ronald McDonald House. It truly was a "home away from home," less than a five-minute walk from Audrey's hospital room. My wife's cousin could even join us there to provide an extra hand with the babies.

In addition to the home-cooked meals, play areas for Oliver and Grace, laundry facilities, and a cozy, private room, we discovered the most important feature of the house - we were not alone. It was tremendously comforting and uplifting to be surrounded by families sharing similar experiences, all far from home, confronting their child's medical crisis.

Ronald McDonald House Charities asks families for $20 a night, but the fee is reduced or waived for those who are unable to pay. The actual cost to house a family is approximately $100 per night - so they need your help to continue providing comfort to families like ours.

Audrey is doing well now. And thanks to the Ronald McDonald House, so are we. We even look forward to returning for follow-up appointments, knowing that while the specialists and doctors are there for Audrey, the house is there for the rest of our family. Please don't miss this opportunity to help.

Gratefully,
Robert and Holly Bennington

Click here to donate to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon & SW Washington.