11 Nov Lambert Nakasone Family Story

Our daughter, Nalaiya, was diagnosed with hydrocephalus in utero at 31 weeks, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what the future would hold. Born at 36 weeks, she underwent shunt surgery just five days later. With the need for close monitoring, Nalaiya had to remain in the NICU, adding to our anxiety and fear.

During this challenging time, the prospect of missing New Year’s at home loomed over us. Thankfully, a caring social worker introduced us to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho, a place we had never heard of before. Settling into our temporary home at the Ronald McDonald House, we found unexpected comfort and warmth. Celebrating New Year’s Day 2023 there, we were greeted with thoughtful gift bags filled with toys, blankets, and other essentials for our little one and our two older girls.

Despite being far from home, the RMHC of Idaho House became a sanctuary that eased our worries and fears. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and supported during our stay. After a week, we were able to bring Nalaiya home. Unfortunately, a month later, we received devastating news that Nalaiya’s shunt had failed, requiring another surgery. What was supposed to be a short hospital stay turned into a prolonged ordeal when our baby fell seriously ill due to an infection after her surgery. As we faced this new challenge, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho once again opened its doors to us, providing a familiar and comforting shelter.

The Ronald McDonald House served as a crucial support system that kept our family together during a challenging period. Each week, my husband would travel back to La Grande, Oregon for work, returning to be with us every weekend, and bringing our daughters along to visit us in the hospital. Over the course of nearly three months, the RMHC of Idaho House was our home-away-from-home.

During our stay, we were grateful to be able to accommodate some of our family and friends at the House, allowing them to visit Nalaiya as she bravely recovered from her complications. We celebrated several holidays there, including Valentine’s Day and Easter, creating special memories that our girls cherished. The playrooms and playground provided a welcoming environment for our children, offering them a sense of normalcy and joy during a difficult time.

The staff and volunteers were a lifeline for us, providing us with nourishing meals and snacks when we had little else to eat. Their support was invaluable, helping to alleviate some of the burdens we faced during our ordeal. In many ways, the Ronald McDonald House became our sanctuary, offering comfort and care when we needed it most. The staff treated us like family, ensuring that we had everything we needed to get through each day. They checked in on us regularly, showing genuine concern for our well-being and the progress of our little one. In our darkest hours, the Ronald McDonald House shone as a beacon of light, providing us with the strength and support we needed to weather the storm.

After our nearly 3-month stay, we eventually went home. However, due to our daughter’s frequent appointments at St. Luke’s Hospital, we continue to make the journey to Boise every month. The Ronald McDonald House continues to graciously open its doors for us whenever we need accommodation, providing us with a place to stay during our visits.

The Ronald McDonald House was more than just a place to stay; it was a lifeline that supported us through the toughest moments of our lives! The compassion and kindness we experienced there will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

~ Lambert Nakasone Family | La Grande, OR | 94 Nights at the House