26 Apr Ostler Family

Rexburg, ID

It’s amazing how fast your life can completely change. Everything was so normal and then the next thing we knew we were in Idaho Falls in a strange place we had never been. All we knew was that our baby wasn’t going to be coming home any time soon. With his due date still almost 3 months away, we were completely lost. The thought of leaving the hospital without our little Finn was unbearable. When we were told about the Ronald McDonald Family Room, there was a glimmer of hope. At least it would allow us to stay close to our little guy for the time being. When I came to the Family Room for the first time, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Free snacks… I was sold!

We got moved in after my wife transitioned out of the hospital. We were able to stay in the Family Room for about a month. It quickly became our home away from home. Our long days in the NICU were just a little more manageable not having to make the 40-minute drive back and forth from Rexburg. Once our little baby became more stable, we ended up moving back to Rexburg, which was tough but made possible because we were able to make and eat all our meals in the kitchen provided by the Family Room. We are so thankful for the amazing and supportive staff who were constantly interested in our wellbeing both concerning our son’s health and also our day-to-day school and work lives.

We are thankful for the Valentine’s Day treat, as well as our thoughtful birthday cards! Without the RMH I know our lives would have been even more challenging through this entire experience. We’re thankful for all of the amazing families we were able to meet and share our highs and lows with throughout our stay here in the EIRMC NICU. We’re thankful for the super comfy white couch, the endless snacks, and the perfect place that allowed us to make the best out of a new and scary experience in the NICU. From the moment we walked in the doors to the moment we finally left the hospital almost 80 days later, we felt the love and support from everyone here at the RMH. Thank you.

~ Nick and Megan Ostler | Rexburg, ID | 80 days at the Ronald McDonald Family Room