At just 27 weeks gestation, Amy had a sudden placental abruption, which meant little Samuel’s heart rate could not be detected and an emergency C-section was performed to deliver him quickly into the world.
Samuel underwent 15 weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and has overcome so much in his short life. He has had many appointments and received constant care to assist with his Neonatal Chronic Lung Disease, which impacted his oxygen levels and slowed his growth. He has also endured bilateral hernia repairs. Throughout this time, Samuel was able to have his dad Nathan, older sisters Eloise and Lilly, and grandma visit the Ronald McDonald House Herston where he and his mum were staying.
“Having a room where I could have the whole family with me was just amazing. I needed that time to spend time with the girls who absolutely loved the House. We’d have tea parties, arts and crafts and joined in on the activities around the House,”
Amy Beasy
But this wasn’t the first experience Amy and Nathan had with Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ). When Samuel’s sister Lilly was born prematurely, the family stayed at the South Brisbane House for a few months while Lilly received unexpected emergency treatment. Amy said that staying at the House was an incredible blessing to them during an already very stressful time.
The Beasys are back home in the Sunshine Coast living a wonderful and happy life. Samuel will continue to require follow up care and appointments in Brisbane, and when that time comes again, the family knows they can always return to Ronald McDonald House South Brisbane.
“Thank you RMHC SEQ for giving love to our family. Not only in providing us a place to stay, but for the meals, sweet treats, smiles and for always helping in any possible way you could. The staff felt like our family and I will always remember them with kindness and care.”