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The Edwards Family: Close to Care, Surrounded by Support

The Edwards family is from Quincy, Illinois, and during Amy’s pregnancy with Payton, her blood pressure spiked to a dangerous level. Doctors made the decision to transfer her to Springfield for specialized care.

Payton was born 11 weeks early, weighing just 2 pounds. Amy spent one week in the hospital, and Payton spent 77 days in the NICU.

“It was the scariest thing that we’ve probably ever had to do,” Amy shared.

Their fear was even deeper because this was their rainbow baby after losing their first pregnancy to stillbirth. Being far from home and facing weeks in the NICU felt overwhelming, but Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Illinois helped ease the burden.

Although Amy had heard of Ronald McDonald House before, it was the nurses who made sure the family knew it was available. From the start, the Springfield House provided a safe, welcoming place to stay close to the hospital without the financial stress of a hotel.

Over time, the House became much more than a place to sleep. From warm meals to comforting hugs, RMHCCI staff and fellow families supported them through every high and low of the NICU journey. Amy especially appreciated the community during the days she was in Springfield alone, while Dustin had to go back to work and drive back and forth.

“We became like a big family,” she said. Even today, the Edwards family stays in touch with families they met during their stay.

Today, Amy and Dustin look back on Payton’s NICU journey with gratitude for the community that surrounded them when they needed it most.

Because when a child needs healthcare, Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Illinois is there to provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing; one family at a time.

Help families like the Edwards family stay close and supported. Donate here.