In December of 2022, RMHC of the Red River Valley turned 40! As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to sharing with you updates from families who have called our house a home over the past four decades. Together with you, we celebrate the impact of this mission on families of our past, present and future.
On February 8, 1999, twins Katie and Jackson were born prematurely to Wendy and Jeff Merrick. After years of marriage, Wendy and Jeff were incredibly excited to welcome their two children into the world. However, neither of them could have predicted that the birth would start as soon as it did. Neither could they have prepared for the uncertainty that followed, with two babies in the NICU.
After Wendy’s water broke unexpectedly on
February 7, the family rode by ambulance to Fargo—over an hour away from their home in Ashby, MN. The Merrick family would spend the next two months navigating life without being able to bring their babies home.
Wendy remembers feeling anxious, afraid, guilty, and even ashamed.
“I felt shame–ashamed that we were failing as parents and ashamed to be worried about practicalities like our jobs and money when our kids were in the hospital,” Wendy said. “We were also embarrassed by our need for help.”
Thankfully, after the twins’ early arrival, Wendy and Jeff remembered seeing signs for the Ronald McDonald House in Fargo. They applied, and with a speedy acceptance, were warmly welcomed to stay the evening of February 11. It was exactly what the Merrick family needed.
“The close proximity to the hospital was extremely important to our peace of mind— particularly during those first few weeks,” Wendy said. “We were afraid to leave the
“In addition to positively impacting our psychological well-being, being able to stay at the house instead of paying for travel or a hotel helped us out economically during a time when money was tight, and the cost of healthcare was a concern,” Wendy said. “Because we stayed at the House, we regained stability more quickly than we could have otherwise. It was a haven in the midst of uncertainty.”
Additionally, the amenities offered at RMHC were a huge comfort to the Merrick family when their life felt out of control. The kitchen presented a special relief to Wendy.
“I used the refrigerator/freezer to store breast milk, and that was important to me” she said. “It made me feel like I was doing something important for our kids during a
time characterized by powerlessness.”
Today, Katie and Jackson are both successful 23 year olds and have reconnected with RMHC. Despite the frighteningly early start to their lives, they’ve both made great advances since. Katie serves as the Vice President of Business Operations with the Fargo Force and Jackson works as an IT technician at Morris Electronics.
Katie has witnessed firsthand how her parents were impacted by RMHC and how it continues to bless their family to this day.
“I think one of the greatest parts of RMHC is how it’s making a huge difference in a way that many wouldn’t even consider,” Katie said. “When most people think ‘charities’
The premature birth of our kids made us feel vulnerable, powerless, and out of control. The Ronald McDonald House helped us find our center and regain our stability. Aside from the positive impact this had on our children’s health, the experience has broadened our understanding of the need for supportive services.
- Wendy Merrick
related to hospitals, it’s research funding or a specific type of disease. No one thinks about what the families are going through or where they’re staying. This can be a huge stressor and add extra expense for families.
