A Mother's Love

This Mother’s Day, you have the opportunity to give families the gift of togetherness. When a child is hospitalized, they want their mother to be close to them. RMHC Michiana makes that happen for families with sick and injured children – like the Silveus Family.

When Mckenzie’s water broke at work 10 weeks early, she could only think about making sure her daughter was born safe and healthy. Things became more real in the ambulance ride to Beacon Children’s Hospital, as she started thinking about what was to come. Reconnecting at the hospital with her husband, Brad, so many questions were left unsaid as their daughter decided to come very quickly.

It wasn’t until after Kiana was born and Mckenzie was in the recovery room that the long road ahead of their family in the NICU became real. Mckenzie looked over to see her husband trying to get some rest in a recliner that was not looking comfortable for him. Since they live in Michigan, they did not know what they were going to do for lodging. That’s when their nurse mentioned RMHC Michiana and signed them up to stay overnight.

The Silveuses ended up staying at RMHC Michiana for 52 nights during Kiana’s treatment. The House was a blessing during a time of uncertainty. Knowing that anything they needed for the coming weeks was a 5 minute walk from Kiana’s room was something they could have never imagined. 

“There was a sense of peace as we could focus on helping our daughter recover while stepping away to take care of ourselves,” said Mckenzie. “What we needed was taken care of during our stay – emotionally, mentally, and physically.”

Now when they recall this time, Brad and Mckenzie take the opportunity to mention RMHC Michiana and what a blessing it was to be there. Those were eight long weeks in the hospital, but being able to step away for a short time was refreshing for their mind and body. 

“I do not think my personal recovery would be what it was if not for the RMHC Michiana,” Mckenzie said.

The Silveuses want people who find themselves in a similar situation to know that they are not alone. There is a home-away-from-home just a short walk over the Skyway. They were able to connect with people that want to help, that cared about them and their wellbeing. 

“Take time to talk with the staff, the volunteers and the other families, as many of them have been in the same place,” Mckenzie said. “It was amazing to see how many people have been impacted by RMHC Michiana over the years and to hear the reasons they keep coming back.”

Mckenzie and Brad want to thank those who have volunteered, donated, made meals, pushed the Coffee Cart and been a part of the RMHC Michiana mission in any way.

“It is not enough to simply say thanks, but know you make a difference,” Mckenzie said. “You answer the unexpected questions during the uncertainty in more ways than you realize.”

If you would like to donate to make sure families just like Mckenzie, Brad and Kiana can stay close to each other during a child’s hospitalization, click the button below to give today.