A Healthy Heartbeat
A Family Story
Young Benjamin had not once experienced a regular heartbeat in his life but at three-years-old, his parents received news from a doctor that this could change. He was born with a ventricular septal defect with aortic valve insufficiency – in short, a hole in the bottom of his heart. Benjamin and his parents were excited to hear the news, but his parents were also worried.
"We had no idea how we were going to do it with bills, food, and our stay. We were very scared.”
These are often the same concerns that come to a parent's mind when their child needs critical medical care. Everything changed when the family received a call from Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) of Greater Las Vegas. Benjamin’s parents learned that they would be provided a supportive place to stay, with meals covered, and many more amenities at no cost.
“They saved us. Not only money but [they] protected us from our own stress and our own fears. They were a shoulder to cry on when we needed it, a happy voice when we needed encouragement.”
On May 8th, Benjamin experienced his first healthy EKG and news that he is strong enough to do anything – including joining the Army if he wants to! After 21 nights staying at RMHC, Benjamin and his family were able to go back home to Northern Nevada.
“Thank you for helping, in any way that you did. Thank you!" - Matthew, Benjamin's Father
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