Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital Celebrates Ronald McDonald Family Room's First Anniversary

December 06, 2023

The room offers families a “home away from home” just steps from their child’s bed

Lafayette, LA - Today, Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children's Hospital, in partnership with Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana, joyfully celebrated a significant milestone, the first anniversary of the Ronald McDonald Family Room. This heartwarming event honored the profound impact the Family Room has had on families throughout the past year.

Spanning 1,500 square feet, the Ronald McDonald Family Room offers an array of amenities, including a children’s play area, private bathrooms with shower facilities, a dining area, internet access, three sleeping rooms, a kitchen, a common area, and laundry facilities.

“We are incredibly proud to be able to provide this Ronald McDonald Family Room for families with patients in our care. It is invaluable for parents and other caregivers to have a home-like retreat just steps away from their child’s bedside,” said Stephanie Manson, president, Our Lady of Lourdes Health. “This space advances the mission of our healthcare ministry by offering them a place to rest and recharge amidst the emotional and mental tolls that a hospital stay can take on them.”

Since opening its doors to the public on November 14, 2022, the Family Room has been a sanctuary, providing onsite respite, lodging, nourishment and compassionate family-centered care. This year, the family room housed 56 families for an average of 16.5 nights, with the longest stay being 128 nights. Additionally, day use has been extensive, supporting 56 families and accommodating 119 individuals.

This support system keeps parents and caregivers close to their children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital’s PICU is one of the largest in Louisiana, serving as a regional hub for life-saving pediatric care.

“The Ronald McDonald Family Room symbolizes our commitment to ensuring families have a supportive environment during their most challenging times,” said Jeigh Stipe, executive director, Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation. “It’s been remarkable to witness the positive changes it brings, providing not just physical comfort but also emotional support, enabling families to focus on what matters most - their child’s well-being.”

The Family Room is staffed with volunteers, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, with services provided at no cost to families approved to use the space.

Learn more about how you can support this initiative and other children's healthcare initiatives by contacting Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation, at (337) 470-4610 or LourdesFoundation@fmolhs.org.