ST. LOUIS - Parents of the tiniest Mercy Kids now have a new space to step away from the neonatal intensive care unit. With funding from the Mercy NICU Parents Support (NICUPS) group, Ronald McDonald House Charities and Mercy marked the opening of its newest Family Room at Mercy Children’s Hospital St. Louis. The Ronald McDonald Family Room is within the large NICU, making it easier and more convenient for parents to find respite, even if only for a few minutes.
“We have always had a parent lounge in our NICU area and feel so blessed to collaborate with RMHC to have the opportunity to renovate,” said Amy McLean, Mercy Kids NICU Family Support Nurse Manager. “Not only is the new space beautiful, but working with the Ronald McDonald Family Room program our families will experience the compassion, hospitality and support their team of experts provides. This will make a world of difference to our families, many of whom are here for long stays with their babies.”
The Ronald McDonald Family Room includes a washer and dryer, a full bathroom with shower, a private room with recliners, a living room space, full kitchen, refreshments and tables that can be used for educational and support group purposes.
Mercy NICUPS parent mentors offer support and assistance to parents whose children are currently in or who are graduates of Mercy Kids NICU in St. Louis. The group relies solely on donations and hosts an annual Letters from Santa fundraiser. The group funded the entire renovation of the space and Ronald McDonald House Charities will staff it with volunteers.
Mercy Children’s was the first in the St. Louis area to open a Ronald McDonald Family Room on its pediatric floor in 2005.
The Ronald McDonald Family Room on the pediatrics floor at Mercy St. Louis is currently undergoing a renovation and will be available for families to use soon.
