Presleigh

21-month old Presleigh Russell is full of smiles and loves to give hugs.  She was born with Down Syndrome and congenital heart defects.  Her parents, Jenna and Eddie are thankful that Ronald McDonald House was there for them during a critical time, for they had no warning of what was to come, when they welcomed their new bundle of joy into the world on April 24, 2006.

After awaiting nine long months, in what seemed to be an easy, uncomplicated pregnancy, Jenna gave birth to Presleigh, a baby girl. Their joy quickly became a nightmare when they learned that the umbilical cord was wrapped around Presleigh’s neck twice, and she was not crying or breathing.  Jenna recalls hearing her baby scream and minutes later, the doctor recommending genetic testing.  Jenna and Eddie were in a state of shock and numb, faced with the reality that something was seriously wrong with their baby.

After blood tests and extensive talks, doctors confirmed that Presleigh had Down Syndrome, and congenital heart defects. Doctors immediately rushed her to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital and the long waiting began. 

“Of all that has happened thus far, the fact that we couldn’t be with her scared us the most. I was discharged, and she was not. We couldn't leave our baby all by herself, and our home on Signal Mountain was at least 35 minutes away, “says Jenna Russell.

The Russell family says it was then that they knew they needed the Ronald McDonald House.  “It was the answer to our prayers, a Godsend in the time of need. From the moment we walked through the front doors, there was nothing but love and kindness. We were truly amazed how generous everyone was,” she continues.

Jenna says the home-away-from-home just across the street from the hospital provided them with comfort, hope and their basic needs such as: nightly dinners, a comfortable private room and emotional support, so they could focus on the wellbeing of their daughter.

The Russell’s stay at the Ronald McDonald House lasted one week.  Each year, as many as 600 families call the Ronald McDonald House home for awhile. Families stay an average of 15 days, although some have stayed as long as one year.

“We really needed that time to adjust, bond, and talk with others who are in our shoes to realize we weren't alone. When it was time to take our first baby home, we were prepared and ready, with a bright outlook to do whatever it was Presleigh needed.