02 Dec Grubb Family Story

After our son, Jake, underwent Microtia ear reconstruction surgery with an OSIA implant, we had the privilege of staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Boise for 3 weeks.

Jake was born with three birth defects: microtia (underdeveloped external ear), aural atresia (absence of the ear canal), and hemifacial microsomia (underdevelopment of one side of the face). These conditions have posed significant challenges for our family, but with the help of the dedicated team at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho, we were able to focus on Jake’s recovery without worrying about accommodations.

Our stay at the Ronald McDonald House was seamless from the start. Our surgeon’s office handled the setup, and all we needed to do was confirm the information provided. The efficiency and warmth of the Ronald McDonald House staff made it easy for us to settle in quickly. We were there for three weeks while Jake was recovering from surgery. Although most of our time was spent on his recovery, Jake and his sister, Lexi, were also showered with so much care and attention from the House and staff. The House is thoughtfully designed with children in mind, offering a playroom, game room, outdoor playground, and playhouse. They even have fun activities like hiding clues around the house for the kids to find and earn prizes, and a magic room where kids can pick out a toy.

Everything about staying at the RMHC of Idaho House is very well thought out. The architecture, with large windows to allow for natural light, creates a bright and welcoming environment. The House truly became a home-away-from-home for us, providing a comforting and supportive space during a challenging time. We are incredibly grateful for the care and support we received from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho. Their hospitality made a world of difference in Jake’s recovery journey and our ability, as Jake’s parents, to help him through the more crucial time in his recovery. 

Parents and families, rest assured that your stay at the Ronald McDonald House will be a positive and supportive experience. For those who may not need the House for lodging but are interested in making a difference, there are numerous ways to get involved. You can volunteer at the House, make a one-time donation, set up monthly contributions, or purchase items from their wish list. Every contribution helps create a home-away-from-home for families in need–just like ours (who traveled all the way from Virginia)!