Maggie and Jace, from a small town in Pennsylvania, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their baby girl. At just 29 weeks and 4 days, their daughter, Lena June, made her early debut. After complications, Lena was transferred to Cleveland Clinic Main Campus—an hour and a half from home.

The family was overwhelmed and tired, with no way to stay close to their newborn baby unless they commute three hours a day or live in a hotel room for the near future. Thankfully, hospital staff referred them to the Cleveland Ronald McDonald House, where they could stay close to their baby during her long NICU stay. For the next three months, the House became their home.

“When I walked into the Ronald McDonald House, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect,” said Maggie. “I was in awe. I had no idea they had all of the amenities—it’s more like a hotel than I thought.”

During that time, Maggie’s sisters visited from out of town, and the family enjoyed a day at the zoo thanks to donated tickets, a rare moment of normalcy amid hospital life. After Lena was discharged in March 2024, the family returned home, grateful for the comfort and care they had received.

But in September 2025, their world was shaken when Lena was diagnosed with liver cancer. As she undergoes chemotherapy, doctors have asked the family to remain within 30 minutes of the hospital in case of emergency. Once again, RMHC NEO is providing the support they need to stay close.

While Lena receives treatment, her parents can take a short break in the Family Room at Cleveland Clinic Children’s located within the hospital; grabbing a cup of coffee, a quick snack, or simply a few quiet moments to recharge. Now that Lena is in outpatient care, the family takes walks whenever they can to enjoy fresh air and sunshine.

Recently, Lena’s grandpa brought a TV for the Ronald McDonald House patio, and the whole family, grandparents included, watched a Steelers game together, just like they would at home. That same week, Maggie and Jace celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary surrounded by love, family, and the ongoing support of RMHC Northeast Ohio.

“Today we just needed to do what we always do on Sundays – grill out and watch football,” Said Jace.

At only 21 months old, Lena has already faced more challenges than most adults. Through every hospital stay, procedure, and uncertainty, one thing has remained constant; her family has been right by her side, thanks to the comfort and care of the Ronald McDonald House.