2026 F A M I L Y
P R O F I L E
The Family of Theodore Szumla Home: Saint Robert, MO (Pulaski County)
“I wanted to take a moment to share our family’s story and express our deepest gratitude for everything the Ronald McDonald House provided during one of the most frightening and unexpected times of our lives.
Our son’s birth was complicated long before delivery day. Due to Rh incompatibility, he developed severe anemia while still in the womb. We tried everything we could to keep him safe and growing longer, including being airlifted to St. Louis for an intrauterine blood transfusion that, blessedly, bought us another 10 days. Despite all efforts, in July he had to be delivered early by emergency C-section. What should have been a joyful day quickly became overwhelming as Theodore was taken straight to the NICU, where he would spend 24 days fighting and growing stronger. Our little man battled severe anemia requiring additional blood transfusions, respiratory distress, and severe jaundice. Amid the fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty, we were blessed with the support of the Ronald McDonald House. Because of RMH, I was able to stay close to my baby every single day. Instead of facing hours of travel or impossible decisions, I had a safe, comfortable place to stay just moments from the NICU. The room RMH provided allowed my husband and son to stay with me, and our daughter to visit, keeping our family connected when everything felt so fragile. Having a place to shower, rest, and simply breathe made all the difference. The dinners provided each night, along with food available whenever we needed it, helped us mentally, emotionally, and financially. With hospital bills already weighing heavily on our minds, the support from RMH offered relief we desperately needed. The kindness of every staff member and volunteer was felt every single day. I even celebrated a birthday during our stay, and despite everything happening around us, RMH made sure I felt seen, remembered, and cared for by surprising me with a small gift and heartfelt words in a card. It was a reminder that even amid fear and stress, compassion and humanity still found their way to us. Our stay at the Ronald McDonald House was more than a place to sleep — it was a lifeline. It gave our family stability, comfort, and hope during one of the hardest chapters of our lives. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. The generosity and compassion we received at RMH will stay with us forever.”
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