Ronald McDonald Family Room Reopens at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center After Renovation
The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center has reopened its doors following a comprehensive move and remodel, providing a vital resource for families facing the emotional strain of having a child undergoing medical treatment.
This facility serves as a tranquil waiting area, where families can find respite as they navigate the challenges associated with hospital visits. The newly redesigned space aims to create an environment that fosters comfort and support during some of the most trying times in a family’s journey, particularly for those attending to pediatric patients.
Kristin O’Leary’s recent experience underscores the significance of this facility. After spending 15 hours in the hospital lobby awaiting news about her daughter-in-law, who was in labor, O’Leary was directed to the Ronald McDonald Family Room by a staff member after sharing her status as an awaiting grandmother. “The love that you receive from the time you come in and the entire time you’re in here is lovely,” O’Leary remarked, highlighting the empathetic environment fostered by the facility.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the operation of the family room, providing not only refreshments like coffee and snacks but also emotional support to families in distress. This aspect of care reflects the broader mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities, which seeks to address the practical and emotional needs of families during medical crises.
Ann Smith, director of Women’s and Children’s Health at Forsyth Medical Center, elaborated on the multifaceted benefits the family room offers. “It’s not only the medical quality care that we give, but it’s really caring for their overall psychological family needs, that interaction that they need and support from their own family,” she noted. This holistic approach to patient care is indicative of the center’s commitment to fostering a supportive atmosphere, which complements the medical attention provided to young patients.
The family room accommodates visitors from diverse units within the hospital, including the pediatric unit, neonatal intensive care unit, and antepartum unit, reflecting its role as a centralized hub of comfort and support in times of uncertainty. As families approach challenging circumstances, the Ronald McDonald Family Room stands as a beacon of hope, offering not just physical amenities but also a community of support that is crucial to emotional well-being during hospital stays.
