Family room opens at UAMS function
Those involved in making the Ronald McDonald Family Room a reality at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences were invited to a reception and preview of the new spaces in the NICU unit at UAMS on Jan. 30, the night before the grand opening.
Decorated in soothing gray and neutral tones, the area features a common living room, kitchen and bathroom for any parents with a child in NICU who need a respite. The space also includes four private en-suite bedrooms for parents needing to stay overnight.
During the reception, Sam Baxter, board president of the Ronald McDonald Foundation, thanked board members and said they all had contributed financially to help fund the space. He also noted board member Susie Morgan was responsible for the interior design of the new spaces.
UAMS chief clinical officer Dr. Tony Seupaul told the guests that the rooms would “deliver a service far beyond the comforts you see tonight.”
Neonatologist Dr. Sara Peeples expanded on the remark explaining how important it is for parents to be close and involved when their child is hospitalized. She described the new space as beautiful, calm and serene and said, “Our families need this.”
Sometimes, she explained, parents need to get away from the hospital while being in the hospital. “We are so very grateful you believed in the vision,” she told supporters.
Janell Mason, executive director of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas, thanked sponsors and donors saying, “Your donations and your gifts will affect thousands of individuals and families.”