Theodore Day - One

Ends: September 17, 2023

On August 25, 2022, our sweet baby boy Theodore Jovan Audet, made his way into the world. He was born a micro preemie at only 23 weeks and 5 days gestation at McMaster Hospital in Hamilton. The NICU with a baby who is very sick is not any parent's dream. It is overwhelming, terrifying, exhausting, crushing, and at times unbearable. You do everything you can to wrap your head around your new reality and you wish so deeply for some ounce of comfort; a glimpse of home when it feels so far away. Ronald McDonald House offers that glimpse of home to families like ours. The moment we were welcomed into the house in South Central Ontario we felt that sliver of comfort we so desperately needed. We were given a beautiful and clean space to call ours while we cared for our son. There was food available for us every day for breakfast and lunch, something you do not have the capacity to provide yourself at that stage. We were surrounded by other families who were having their world rocked too, giving us a sense of community. They celebrated Theodore's Daddy's birthday! Those few things don't even scratch the surface of all the incredible ways this charity helps families tangibly. Our son passed away on September 17, 2022 after only 23 days of life. We were crushed and devastated, in the darkest time of our life. RMHC did not abandon us in this moment. They offered us our space for as long as we needed it. They named a star after Theodore. They lit a memorial photo in honour of his life and death in their lobby. They sent us home with a very thoughtful care package. Our time at RMHC was short but it was more impactful than we have the words to express. Please consider donating to this fundraiser in honour of Theodore's first birthday. I promise you that when you give to this charity, lives are impacted, hearts are comforted, and the families are treasured!