When Isaac and Mary welcomed their son Harvey into the world, they never imagined their family’s story would take them two hours from home and into the heart of a medical journey few parents ever face. At just three months old, Harvey developed a rash that led to a rare diagnosis: hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a genetic blood disorder that causes the immune system to attack the body’s own organs.

Their little boy underwent treatment including intensive chemotherapy and an extended stay at Akron Children’s Hospital. Being two hours from their home, the Snyder family was able to stay at the Akron Ronald McDonald House.

For Isaac and Mary, the House provided more than a roof over their heads during a stressful time; it became a place where they could decompress after supporting their child in the hospital. Over the course of 261 days, the family found stability through hot meals from the Family Meal Program, an open pantry for late-night snacks, and the ever-ready coffee station after long hours at the hospital.

Their daughter, Holly, just four years old, lit up the House with her energy and quickly became a familiar face to staff and volunteers. She loved holiday celebrations, carefully choosing gifts under the Christmas tree, and building sweet connections with everyone from the front desk staff to the maintenance team.

Harvey’s medical journey was long and challenging. With his immune system suppressed, he spent significant time inpatient, but between treatments, the Ronald McDonald House offered a safe place for him to stay close to the hospital. Today, Harvey is home, energetic and catching up on milestones with each passing day. Monthly follow-up appointments continue to show positive progress for Harvey.

Isaac was able to work remotely during their time at the House, a blessing that eased financial and logistical stress while allowing him to stay close to his wife and children. Isaac and Mary have a deep appreciation for not just the physical space of RMHC NEO, but for the community, care, and support that carried them through one of the hardest chapters of their lives.