The day Hallie was born changed my life forever. We knew early on that her arrival would not be straightforward, but nothing could have prepared me for what followed. Doctors decided to induce me early, and just four hours after Hallie entered the world, she was rushed into surgery. Her tiny body was fighting something far bigger than any newborn should face.

Hallie was diagnosed with Duodenal Atresia, a rare congenital digestive condition. It occurs when the duodenum, part of the small intestine, is blocked or missing, preventing food from passing through the digestive system. The cause is unknown, and without immediate surgery, the condition can be fatal. As my newborn daughter was taken away, fear and helplessness overwhelmed me. I had only just met her, and already I was facing the possibility of losing her.

Uncertainty, Fear, and a Fragile Beginning

Doctors told us it was unlikely we would be home for Christmas. Those words stayed with me, heavy and painful. But Hallie proved to be stronger than anyone expected. Despite the seriousness of her condition, she responded incredibly well to total parenteral nutrition (TPN), which provided essential nutrients through her bloodstream. By day fourteen, she had made such progress that doctors decided to stop the TPN.

The journey wasn’t without setbacks. Hallie developed an infection at her surgical wound, and the fear returned instantly. Every day felt uncertain, and I lived with the constant worry that another complication could arise at any moment. Still, Hallie continued to defy expectations. After just over two weeks in hospital, we were finally allowed to take her home. Against all odds, we were able to spend Christmas together as a family—a miracle we once thought impossible.

Finding Support When It Was Needed Most

Throughout this experience, one source of support changed everything: Ronald McDonald House Charities UK. When Hallie was taken into surgery, the thought of leaving the hospital each day and traveling back and forth was unbearable. I felt lost, exhausted, and overwhelmed. I had never heard of Ronald McDonald House before, but a nurse told me about a “home away from home” just minutes from the hospital and immediately referred us.

Within two days, we had a room at Camberwell House. The relief was instant. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. The staff explained everything patiently, showing us the shared kitchen, lounge, and our room. The House was clean, calm, and incredibly comfortable. It didn’t feel like temporary accommodation—it felt like safety.

Staying Close Makes All the Difference

Being so close to the hospital changed everything. Without the House, we would have faced long journeys, hotel costs, and constant stress. Instead, I could be with Hallie whenever she needed me. I firmly believe that being close played a role in her recovery. Every three hours, I was able to pump breast milk for her, ensuring she received the nourishment she needed to grow stronger.

The House allowed us to focus on what mattered most: our daughter. There was no worrying about travel or finances—only being present, day and night, during the most critical moments of her life.

Compassion Beyond Accommodation

One of the hardest days for me was Hallie’s first Mother’s Day. I was staying at the House, away from my own mother, feeling emotionally drained. Ronald McDonald House made sure the day didn’t pass unnoticed. They gave small gifts and treats to every mother staying there and even offered a free full-body massage.

It may seem like a small gesture, but it meant everything. In that moment, I felt seen, cared for, and supported.

Living at Camberwell House felt like being part of a community. Everyone there understood the fear, exhaustion, and hope that comes with having a child in hospital. It wasn’t just somewhere to sleep—it was a place of compassion, understanding, and healing.

Giving Back and Moving Forward

Over time, I realized just how vital Ronald McDonald House Charities UK is for families like ours. They do far more than provide accommodation. They keep families close when every moment matters. Without them, I don’t know how we would have coped.

In 2019, I had the opportunity to give back by donating Mother’s Day bags to the House. It was a small gesture, but it came from deep gratitude for everything they had done for us.

If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, I encourage you to reach out to Ronald McDonald House Charities UK. If there is a House near your hospital, take the support offered. It is more than a place to stay—it is a lifeline.

Hallie’s journey has been one of fear, strength, and hope. While challenges remain, we face them together. Thanks to Ronald McDonald House, we were able to spend our first Christmas as a family—a gift we will cherish forever.