02 Jul Heart the Houses
Posted at 21:05h
in
Welcome
Avaleigh Wilson is less than a year old, but she has already defied more odds than most people face in a lifetime. Her story starts with parents, Aundrea and Josh, who were doing everything they could to keep from becoming pregnant again. They had already suffered the pain of a child not surviving a premature birth. Silas, born at 22 weeks and 6 days, came into this world in 2020 only to leave it while being held by his grief-stricken mother.
At first, it seemed history was doomed to repeat itself. At 24 weeks, Aundrea felt a sudden pain and understood that she and her unborn child needed immediate medical attention. Living in West Plains, they had to come to Springfield to find a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to give their daughter a fighting chance. After her mother was med-flighted to Cox South Hospital, Avaleigh made her entrance into the world, weighing only 1 lb 7 oz and measuring 12 inches long. Her fight was only getting started.
Avaleigh’s early days were fraught with life-threatening challenges. She endured a stage 2 brain bleed, vision problems, and severe lung complications. The Wilsons’ world revolved around their daughter’s fight for survival.
The Ronald McDonald House was a lifeline that allowed Aundrea and Josh to focus on Avaleigh’s fight without the burden of worrying about where to stay. Staying in motels or hotels would have been financially overwhelming, especially during a period already mired in uncertainty. A nurse mentioned the Ronald McDonald House as a possibility for what would turn out to be home for 111 days.
“The Ronald McDonald House becomes home,” said Josh Wilson.
“It might not feel like it when you first walk through the doors—scared and stressed and reeling from the dramatic, unexpected turn your life has taken—but having a place that is entirely yours, where others can worry about things like food and laundry for you, empowering you to focus on your child, is absolutely everything.”
Aundrea and Josh got to know the staff and formed connections with fellow residents that went beyond the shared struggle of having a child in the NICU. The House provided them with a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. A place where they could recover from the stresses of Avaleigh’s struggle.
Despite the challenges they faced, the Wilsons found ways to give back, from preparing meals to helping set up the Christmas display. They celebrated numerous holidays and milestones at the House, from Thanksgiving and Christmas to New Year’s and even Silas’s birthday, and were joined by others, including hospital staff, to reinforce that they were not alone in sorrow or celebration. It was these moments that made the House not just a place to stay but a place to heal.
The Wilsons were told they would be fortunate if Avaleigh survived two weeks. However, their little warrior defied the odds, and the House gave them the support they needed to be with her every step of the way.
As the Wilsons reflect on their journey, they want to share their story with the world and inspire people to support and donate to the Ronald McDonald House. The Ronald McDonald House was their refuge in the storm, a place where they found comfort, strength, and unwavering support.
Ronald McDonald House Charities provides a lifeline for families in their darkest hours, a beacon of hope that ensures they are never alone on their journey. The Wilson family’s journey is a testament to the profound impact your support can have on families in need. “Heart the Houses”, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of families like the Wilsons, helping them find strength, hope, and home when they need it most.
When You “Heart the Houses”, You Help Families Like the Wilsons Stay Close.
When our generous supporters “Heart the Houses” and Adopt a Room, they make the Ronald McDonald Houses possible for the Wilson family and thousands of other area families.
During a typical year, more than 800 families find a community of comfort and hope at our two Ronald McDonald Houses in Springfield. By Adopting a Room for 2024 in one or both of our Houses, you are keeping families of sick children close to each other and near the care and resources they need.
The Heart the Houses Campaign is Presented By
How to Heart the Houses
How to Heart the Houses
The “Adopt A Room” Program is a great way for you, your company or organization to Heart the Houses. With your gift, you will become a Ronald McDonald House Annual Room Sponsor and your name will be displayed on a special plaque near or within the room. Simply click here to donate online to our Heart the Houses campaign. You can also call 417-875-3505 to make a donation over the phone.
Below, you can find out more information about adoptable rooms at both the Ronald McDonald House Near Cox South and the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids.
Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids Room Layout
Ronald McDonald House Near Cox South Room Layout
This Year's Donors
Heart the Houses Donors
Presenting Sponsor – American Glass
Ronald McDonald House near Cox South
| Family Room: | |
| Living Room: | |
| Playroom: | Citizens Memorial Hospital – One Month; A Gift in Memory of Lucille B Brown – Two Months; Bob & Debbie Williams – One Month; Carl Ledgerwood, in memory of Neal (Gene) & Norma Lee Ledgerwood – One Month |
| Kitchen: | |
| Dining Room #1: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Dining Room #2: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Family Living Center: | Colene Moore – Two Months |
| Office for Volunteers & Staff: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in memory of John N. Fillyaw – One Year |
| Family Care Managers’ Quarters: | |
| Main Entryway: | |
| Laundry Room #1: | Brian & Stevie Coleman, in honor of Morgan, Beckett & Amelia Spoor – One Year |
| Laundry Room #2: | Donna Powers – One Year |
| Bedroom 101: | |
| Bedroom 102: | Paula Adams – One Year |
| Bedroom 103: | Robert & Suzanne Israel, in memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel, Paul & Lois Campbell, Jack W. Israel, Ed Israel & Little Eddie Israel – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 104: | Robert & Suzanne Israel, in memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel, Paul & Lois Campbell, Jack W. Israel, Ed Israel & Little Eddie Israel – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 105: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 201: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 202: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 203: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 204: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 205: | Ronnie & Donna Ward, in honor of Lilly & Lucy Newberry – One Year |
| Bedroom 206: | Brent & Emily Kembell – One Quarter; Bonnie Atteberry – One Quarter; Amy Grubaugh – One Month; Bruce & Patti Moore – One Month |
| Bedroom 207: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in honor of their grandchildren – Nathan, Jacob, Samuel, Madeline & Madison – One Year |
| Bedroom 208: | Dustin & Tera Dover – One Year |
| Bedroom 209: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids
| Living Room: | |
| Kitchen: | David & Stacey O’Reilly – Two Quarters |
| Dining Room: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Playroom: | |
| Family Care Managers’ Quarters: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Office for Volunteers & Staff: | |
| Main Entryway: | Stuart & Christy Scott – One Year |
| Gathering Room: | |
| Laundry Center: | |
| Computer Nook: | |
| Family Locker Room: | Robert & Barbara Kipfer – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 101: | Frank & Karin Driscoll, in memory of Christopher Driscoll – One Month; Monte & Kara Maska – One Month; Pete Sumners & Melissa Bilyeu, in memory of E.B. & Sammie Sumners and Johnny Bilyeu – One Month; Sandra (Cookie) Witt – One Month; Frank & Karin Driscoll, in memory of Christopher Driscoll – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 102: | |
| Bedroom 103: | |
| Bedroom 104: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in honor of their grandchildren – Nathan, Jacob, Samuel, Madeline & Madison – One Year |
| Bedroom 105: | Ronnie & Donna Ward, in honor of Lilly & Lucy Newberry – One Year |
| Bedroom 106: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 107: | Mercy Regional Facilities – One Year |
| Bedroom 108: | Dr. Remi Fasipe and Dr. Batool El-Atoum – One Year |
| Bedroom 109: | Louis & Caroline Griesemer, in honor of the Mercy NICU Nurses – One Year |
| Bedroom 110: |
Supporting Contributors
ADsmith Marketing & Advertising
Alyce Drewel
Anonymous
Cheryl Williams
Cory & Brittany Smith
Frank & Patti Harris
John Nipper
Judy & Frankie Wormington
Kelley & Nancy McKenzie
Kevin & Gina Little
Mark Ringenberg
Michael Cochran
Phoebe Clear
Steven Sanders
Contributors
| Lester C. Bouzek Kathi Brandell Belva Brewer Tim & Donna Brown Nathan, Kim & Brock Brownfield Julie Clark, in memory of Jeanne M. Engle Suzanne Clark Pamela Drake Susan Foster Velma Ann Fotorny, in memory of the England Grandchildren Pat & Fran Gorman Michael & Neva Hill Robert Hood Bob Houston, in memory Laveta & LuAnn Houston Thomas & Penny Hubbard Rick & Sandy Mueller, in honor of Bethany Mueller JoAnn Patyk Lynn Pekoe Ruth Schaumburg, in memory of Mike Erickson Verl & Nina Strong Lamont & Darlene Swanson Joe & Ann Swink Frederico Vieira Dr. Mai Vo Cecil & Katherine Wormington, in honor of Connor Smith Richard & Celinda Wilt |
Jim & Ginny Westwick Ron & Donna Jenkins, in honor of Gary & Lynne Ludlam Virginia Mias Tracy & Melissa Hall Paul & Karen Doelger Brandon & Hilary West Kenneth & Susanne Miller Betty Jo McAlister, in memory of Porky, Bo & Gary McAllister Art & Becky Farris Leo & Willa Beth Olson Duane & Glenna Grisham Donna Roberts Gale & Becky Edwards Angie Wormington Pete & Sandy Emberton Jennifer Colwell Swartzentruber Family Brad & Julie Squires Sandy Like Cheryl Schwind Sandra Stewart Rex & Becky Holman Diana Cowan Mary Cupps, in memory of Steve J. & J. Beverly Barnes Susan Zeisel Roy & Jeanie Cash |
Avaleigh Wilson is less than a year old, but she has already defied more odds than most people face in a lifetime. Her story starts with parents, Aundrea and Josh, who were doing everything they could to keep from becoming pregnant again. They had already suffered the pain of a child not surviving a premature birth. Silas, born at 22 weeks and 6 days, came into this world in 2020 only to leave it while being held by his grief-stricken mother.
At first, it seemed history was doomed to repeat itself. At 24 weeks, Aundrea felt a sudden pain and understood that she and her unborn child needed immediate medical attention. Living in West Plains, they had to come to Springfield to find a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to give their daughter a fighting chance. After her mother was med-flighted to Cox South Hospital, Avaleigh made her entrance into the world, weighing only 1 lb 7 oz and measuring 12 inches long. Her fight was only getting started.
Avaleigh’s early days were fraught with life-threatening challenges. She endured a stage 2 brain bleed, vision problems, and severe lung complications. The Wilsons’ world revolved around their daughter’s fight for survival.
The Ronald McDonald House was a lifeline that allowed Aundrea and Josh to focus on Avaleigh’s fight without the burden of worrying about where to stay. Staying in motels or hotels would have been financially overwhelming, especially during a period already mired in uncertainty. A nurse mentioned the Ronald McDonald House as a possibility for what would turn out to be home for 111 days.
“The Ronald McDonald House becomes home,” said Josh Wilson.
“It might not feel like it when you first walk through the doors—scared and stressed and reeling from the dramatic, unexpected turn your life has taken—but having a place that is entirely yours, where others can worry about things like food and laundry for you, empowering you to focus on your child, is absolutely everything.”
Aundrea and Josh got to know the staff and formed connections with fellow residents that went beyond the shared struggle of having a child in the NICU. The House provided them with a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. A place where they could recover from the stresses of Avaleigh’s struggle.
Despite the challenges they faced, the Wilsons found ways to give back, from preparing meals to helping set up the Christmas display. They celebrated numerous holidays and milestones at the House, from Thanksgiving and Christmas to New Year’s and even Silas’s birthday, and were joined by others, including hospital staff, to reinforce that they were not alone in sorrow or celebration. It was these moments that made the House not just a place to stay but a place to heal.
The Wilsons were told they would be fortunate if Avaleigh survived two weeks. However, their little warrior defied the odds, and the House gave them the support they needed to be with her every step of the way.
As the Wilsons reflect on their journey, they want to share their story with the world and inspire people to support and donate to the Ronald McDonald House. The Ronald McDonald House was their refuge in the storm, a place where they found comfort, strength, and unwavering support.
Ronald McDonald House Charities provides a lifeline for families in their darkest hours, a beacon of hope that ensures they are never alone on their journey. The Wilson family’s journey is a testament to the profound impact your support can have on families in need. “Heart the Houses”, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of families like the Wilsons, helping them find strength, hope, and home when they need it most.
When You “Heart the Houses”, You Help Families Like the Wilsons Stay Close.
When our generous supporters “Heart the Houses” and Adopt a Room, they make the Ronald McDonald Houses possible for the Wilson family and thousands of other area families.
During a typical year, more than 800 families find a community of comfort and hope at our two Ronald McDonald Houses in Springfield. By Adopting a Room for 2024 in one or both of our Houses, you are keeping families of sick children close to each other and near the care and resources they need.
The Heart the Houses Campaign is Presented By
How to Heart the Houses
The “Adopt A Room” Program is a great way for you, your company or organization to Heart the Houses. With your gift, you will become a Ronald McDonald House Annual Room Sponsor and your name will be displayed on a special plaque near or within the room. Simply click here to donate online to our Heart the Houses campaign. You can also call 417-875-3505 to make a donation over the phone.
Below, you can find out more information about adoptable rooms at both the Ronald McDonald House Near Cox South and the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids.
Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids Room Layout
Ronald McDonald House Near Cox South Room Layout
Heart the Houses Donors
Presenting Sponsor – American Glass
Ronald McDonald House near Cox South
| Family Room: | |
| Living Room: | |
| Playroom: | Citizens Memorial Hospital – One Month; A Gift in Memory of Lucille B Brown – Two Months; Bob & Debbie Williams – One Month; Carl Ledgerwood, in memory of Neal (Gene) & Norma Lee Ledgerwood – One Month |
| Kitchen: | |
| Dining Room #1: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Dining Room #2: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Family Living Center: | Colene Moore – Two Months |
| Office for Volunteers & Staff: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in memory of John N. Fillyaw – One Year |
| Family Care Managers’ Quarters: | |
| Main Entryway: | |
| Laundry Room #1: | Brian & Stevie Coleman, in honor of Morgan, Beckett & Amelia Spoor – One Year |
| Laundry Room #2: | Donna Powers – One Year |
| Bedroom 101: | |
| Bedroom 102: | Paula Adams – One Year |
| Bedroom 103: | Robert & Suzanne Israel, in memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel, Paul & Lois Campbell, Jack W. Israel, Ed Israel & Little Eddie Israel – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 104: | Robert & Suzanne Israel, in memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel, Paul & Lois Campbell, Jack W. Israel, Ed Israel & Little Eddie Israel – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 105: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 201: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 202: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 203: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 204: | A special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 205: | Ronnie & Donna Ward, in honor of Lilly & Lucy Newberry – One Year |
| Bedroom 206: | Brent & Emily Kembell – One Quarter; Bonnie Atteberry – One Quarter; Amy Grubaugh – One Month; Bruce & Patti Moore – One Month |
| Bedroom 207: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in honor of their grandchildren – Nathan, Jacob, Samuel, Madeline & Madison – One Year |
| Bedroom 208: | Dustin & Tera Dover – One Year |
| Bedroom 209: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Kids
| Living Room: | |
| Kitchen: | David & Stacey O’Reilly – Two Quarters |
| Dining Room: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Playroom: | |
| Family Care Managers’ Quarters: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Office for Volunteers & Staff: | |
| Main Entryway: | Stuart & Christy Scott – One Year |
| Gathering Room: | |
| Laundry Center: | |
| Computer Nook: | |
| Family Locker Room: | Robert & Barbara Kipfer – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 101: | Frank & Karin Driscoll, in memory of Christopher Driscoll – One Month; Monte & Kara Maska – One Month; Pete Sumners & Melissa Bilyeu, in memory of E.B. & Sammie Sumners and Johnny Bilyeu – One Month; Sandra (Cookie) Witt – One Month; Frank & Karin Driscoll, in memory of Christopher Driscoll – One Quarter |
| Bedroom 102: | |
| Bedroom 103: | |
| Bedroom 104: | Gayden & Cathy Wilkins, in honor of their grandchildren – Nathan, Jacob, Samuel, Madeline & Madison – One Year |
| Bedroom 105: | Ronnie & Donna Ward, in honor of Lilly & Lucy Newberry – One Year |
| Bedroom 106: | A Special Guardian Angel – One Year |
| Bedroom 107: | Mercy Regional Facilities – One Year |
| Bedroom 108: | Dr. Remi Fasipe and Dr. Batool El-Atoum – One Year |
| Bedroom 109: | Louis & Caroline Griesemer, in honor of the Mercy NICU Nurses – One Year |
| Bedroom 110: |
Supporting Contributors
| ADsmith Marketing & Advertising Alyce Drewel Anonymous Cheryl Williams Cory & Brittany Smith Frank & Patti Harris John Nipper Judy & Frankie Wormington Kelley & Nancy McKenzie Kevin & Gina Little Mark Ringenberg Michael Cochran Phoebe Clear Steven Sanders |
Contributors
| Lester C. Bouzek Kathi Brandell Belva Brewer Tim & Donna Brown Nathan, Kim & Brock Brownfield Julie Clark, in memory of Jeanne M. Engle Suzanne Clark Pamela Drake Susan Foster Velma Ann Fotorny, in memory of the England Grandchildren Pat & Fran Gorman Michael & Neva Hill Robert Hood Bob Houston, in memory Laveta & LuAnn Houston Thomas & Penny Hubbard Rick & Sandy Mueller, in honor of Bethany Mueller JoAnn Patyk Lynn Pekoe Ruth Schaumburg, in memory of Mike Erickson Verl & Nina Strong Lamont & Darlene Swanson Joe & Ann Swink Frederico Vieira Dr. Mai Vo Cecil & Katherine Wormington, in honor of Connor Smith Richard & Celinda Wilt |
Jim & Ginny Westwick Ron & Donna Jenkins, in honor of Gary & Lynne Ludlam Virginia Mias Tracy & Melissa Hall Paul & Karen Doelger Brandon & Hilary West Kenneth & Susanne Miller Betty Jo McAlister, in memory of Porky, Bo & Gary McAllister Art & Becky Farris Leo & Willa Beth Olson Duane & Glenna Grisham Donna Roberts Gale & Becky Edwards Angie Wormington Pete & Sandy Emberton Jennifer Colwell Swartzentruber Family Brad & Julie Squires Sandy Like Cheryl Schwind Sandra Stewart Rex & Becky Holman Diana Cowan Mary Cupps, in memory of Steve J. & J. Beverly Barnes Susan Zeisel Roy & Jeanie Cash |
