Mallory was born with an anoxic brain injury and spent three months in the NICU. After three live-saving surgeries and several tests later, she was diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy.
When Mallory needed intensive therapy, her family traveled more than 1,100 miles from Manhattan, Illinois to Florida Hospital in Winter Park and stayed at our Ronald McDonald House.
“We were immediately welcomed with open arms. It was so nice to feel welcomed and to know that we were not alone in our journey,” said Kristina, Mallory’s mother.
Kristina remembered returning from Mallory’s therapy sessions and talking with other families at the House. “It was inspiring to hear other guests’ stories and to be in a place where people just understood how it feels when your child needs extra medical care,” she said.
One of the things that truly touched the Gericke family was all kind words they received from the staff.
“Everyone was always so pleased to see Mallory and to know how she did at her therapy that day. She felt like a celebrity!” said Kristina.
Kristina said the thing that meant the most to her family was all the love and support they received during their stays at RMH.
“Having the option of a freshly cooked meal if we needed it and a happy, safe place to stay while we focused on Mallory’s treatment … This truly is the House that love built.”
