F A M I L Y
P R O F I L E
Smith Family
HOME: Bentonville, AR (Benton County)
In February 2020, our pediatrician noticed
our son Carter wasn’t growing at a normal rate, and we were referred to Mercy Springfield for further evaluation and testing. After months of extensive testing, it was determined that Carter has a rare hormone disorder, along with 2 other hormone disorders and a brain abnormality. His disorders, particularly his rare disorder, requires both extensive monitoring at home and frequent doctor appointments in Springfield. Since we were placed under the care of a neurologist and oncologist, he requires a brain MRI every 3-4 months. We live 2 hours away from Springfield and his doctor appointments usually require an overnight stay. The Ronald McDonald House in Springfield has been so amazing. We don’t have to worry about finding a clean and safe place to stay each time we come to Springfield. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure that we are supported and comfortable, and they ALWAYS have something to make Carter smile. We have received everything from toiletries when we had an unexpected extra appointment and weren’t prepared to stay overnight, to bags of surprises featuring Carter’s favorite, Captain America, to keep him busy during long hospital testing sessions. The Ronald McDonald House really goes the extra mile to support their families. They have been such a blessing to our family on this journey with Carter, and we will be forever grateful.
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