Our daughter, Lynzee, was in the NICU at Iowa City for 89 days, and during that difficult journey, staying at the Ronald McDonald House was a vital part of our experience.

Living three hours away in Wisconsin, being close to Lynzee was essential for us to feel connected and support her in every way we could. RMHC-EIWI made this possible by offering us a welcoming and caring place to stay right near the hospital.

Their generosity extended beyond providing a roof over our heads. The meals served, the household items made available, and the comforting environment created made a huge difference. Their kindness and dedication helped ease some of our anxieties and provided a sense of community in a time of uncertainty.

Thanks to each one at Ronald McDonald House, we were able to focus on Lynzee’s journey knowing that we had a safe and caring place to return to each day. Our family is truly grateful for the compassion, support, and generosity shown to us.

At the end of a long and stressful day we could always count on a warm and friendly greeting from the dedicated staff. RMHC brought us into the large and always growing Ronald McDonald House family and will always be a part of our family's legacy for years to come.

I was sent to Iowa City due to preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. The local hospital couldn't care for me as I was only 26 weeks along. Lynzee was then born premature at 28 weeks 3 days, weighing only 2lbs 3 ounces.

We have been doing the Red Shoe Run every year since she was born. We have a huge support system back here in Iowa and back home in Wisconsin and are very thankful for the virtual option as some can't make the trip all the way over to Iowa City. But we do have a big group that comes over for the weekend and does the run alongside our family.

We love doing the run and giving back to the RMHC every year to show our gratitude for all the love and care they gave to us when we stayed. Lynzee has a stepping stone in the backyard of the House that we love to see every time we make it to Iowa City. She enjoys saving the pop tabs to bring back every year, too. Most importantly she loves to run and never backs down from the challenge.

This year will be extra special because it falls on her 8th birthday so we told her it will be a huge party with all the people who love to give back to the RMHC.

Thank you again,

Andy, Stacey, Avery, Tylan, Lynzee Rufer