On June 14, 2013, our family was on our last trip out of town prior to settling in at home in Clarksville, TN for the remainder of my wife, Megan’s, pregnancy. We were in New Harmony, Indiana for a baby shower – Megan was pregnant with twin boys, and we were ecstatic to give our 2 year old Lincoln more friends to play with.
Our plans changed the next day when my wife was hospitalized and began to go into labor ten weeks early. She was given steroid shots to strengthen the twins, and put on a medication that works to slow down and stop contractions. That medicine worked for the first two days, but then her contractions came back stronger than ever. Our doctor told us that they needed to get our boys immediately, and an emergency c-section was performed. Davis Anderson Hoehn was born at 2:06 am on June 18, and his brother Baker Charles Hoehn was born one minute later at 2:07 am.
Both boys were very small, and very sick. Davis was 2 lbs 11oz, and Baker was 3 lbs 4 oz. We would find out a few days later the reason for the early labor – both boys had somehow become infected with Ecoli Sepsis. This is what caused their water to break early.
The first few days of their lives were some of the scariest of our lives, and we did not grasp the severity of their situation until a few days later. Other complications came fast and strong, but the doctors and nurses at the St.Mary’s NICU had an answer at every turn. Sometimes they had to approach an issue multiple ways, but eventually they were able to get our little boys through the scariest times.
We knew we were in for a long haul with the boys, and the stress we felt from the situation was only complicated by being over 2 hours away from home, and by being away from the doctors and hospital we knew and trusted. A few of the nurses that knew our situation, and the family advocate at the hospital approached us and informed us about the possibility of staying at the Ronald McDonald House. We knew very little about this place, other than it helped families in need during a medical crisis. We informed the family advocate that we would love to be able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House. Thankfully there was room for us.
My wife was discharged from the hospital on June 22 and we were able to stay from that night until our twins were released just over six weeks later. The house was beautiful and well taken care of. My wife enjoyed baking in the fully-equipped kitchens and taking treats over to the NICU nurses. The pantry was especially helpful for when we had a long day at the hospital and didn’t have the time or energy to go out for food. In addition to the pantry, there were many times during the week that volunteers would come in and cook for the residents (most of them were very good cooks too!).
Our 2 year old Lincoln loved playing in the courtyard and in both of the playrooms on the floor level. Our room was very nice and even had a few furnishings that were identical to our home in Tennessee. Above all, the staff made the most difference for us. They were always friendly, courteous and willing to listen and give support. The atmosphere that they are able to provide for people who are having a hard time is incredible. The staff made a very trying and stressful time a little easier for us, which was truly appreciated.
We are happy to report that all of our boys are doing just fine. As of December, Baker weighs 16.5 lbs and Davis is at 15.5 lbs. They are our little miracles and we are truly blessed to have them with us today. We cannot thank our friends at the Ronald McDonald House enough for their generosity and good nature.
-Aaron, Megan, Lincoln, Baker and Davis Hoehn