Holden and Hudson’s Journey

“At the Ronald McDonald House you can build a family with others who are going through the same thing as you,” said Emily.

When Emily and Chris’ twin boys, Holden and Hudson, were born 11 weeks early, they found a community of support in an unsuspected place – the Ronald McDonald House.

Born weighing 3lbs and 2lbs 2 oz, the boys spent six weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit at WVU Medicine Children’s. Mom and dad spent that same amount time just across the street at Ronald McDonald House Morgantown.

During that time, finding a community at the House was important to them and something they will never forget.

“At the Ronald McDonald House you can build a family with others who are going through the same thing as you,” said Emily.

Today, three years later, the boys are enjoying karate, playing soccer and getting ready for their first day of preschool. And Emily is sharing her family’s experience with the Charity with another community. As a member of the Ohio Valley Roller Derby, she and the team recently held a fundraiser supporting RMHC Pittsburgh and Morgantown.

“It was the first place that came to my mind when we were thinking of Charities to help,” said Emily.

Additionally, there are other moms on the team who have had to stay at either the Pittsburgh or Morgantown Houses because their children were also in the NICU.

“Supporting RMHC Pittsburgh and Morgantown also means supporting our community at home,” said Emily.

Looking to the future, the group will continue to help bring comfort to the Charity with more projects, raising awareness and support.