Benefitting
FAMILY PROFILE
Jeff & Melody Burkhart Family Home: Blue Eye, MO (Christian County)
Our adventure started January 30, 2018 after my wife Melody had returned home from a doctor appointment not feeling well. We lived over an hour away and because of her extremely high blood pressure reading, we were advised to go straight to the hospital. Our unborn child was doing well and not in distress, but her momma was becoming sicker and sicker. We were told the longer Melody stayed pregnant, the healthier our baby would be, but the more dangerous Melody’s condition would become. Four days later, as Melody’s condition was worsening, the doctors decided it was time to deliver baby Galilee. On February 3rd, our 33-week-old baby girl was born weighing 6lbs. 5oz. and was 19 1/2” long. After many prayers were answered for a safe delivery, we were once again at a point of total dependency on the mercy of our LORD. Even though she was big, Galilee was taken to the NICU because she was not completely developed internally. Living over an hour away and having two older children, who at this time, were banned from the hospital due to the flu outbreak, posed a difficult situation. Thankfully, a nurse had given Melody information about the Ronald McDonald House and they graciously offered us a room. Upon arriving at the House, we were welcomed with open arms. It was Super Bowl Sunday and there were snacks everywhere. We were given an introduction, House rules, a tour of the facility, and told that this was our house. My children and I were in complete awe of the amenities provided for us. The House was a place we were able to focus on Galilee as she grew stronger, as well as our other children, without having to worry about traveling, food or even laundry. Being traveling ministers, our family was use to the unknowns...not always sure where we were going, staying, or doing next; but we were always sure that the LORD was guiding us, directing us and walking these paths with us. I believe that GOD used the House to bring some certainty to our lives when there were a lot of unknowns. I was able to pray with many guests going through similar situations, and the staff was always there to listen when we had victories and setbacks. After 37 days of being in the N.I.C.U. Galilee was released and we were finally able to go back home as a complete family. We are forever grateful for the House and their generosity, and it will hold a special place in our hearts forever.
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