Watson Family - Westport
Before baby Blaire was born, her mum Lyndal relocated to Christchurch due to a high-risk pregnancy. During this time, Ronald McDonald House became a ‘home-away-from-home’ for two weeks before Blaire’s arrival, and again for five weeks while she was cared for in the NICU.
“For myself, my partner Anthony, and our two boys Beauden and Oliver, having somewhere safe and welcoming meant we could face an incredibly uncertain time together as a family,” Lyndal shares. 
Although Blaire was born full-term, her arrival was far from straightforward. After reduced movements in pregnancy, she needed to be resuscitated and intubated at birth. She was also diagnosed with Noonan Syndrome in utero, a rare condition that brought with it a heart condition and many extra challenges.
“Those first weeks were frightening and overwhelming, but being close by made all the difference,” Lyndal recalls. “If I hadn’t been staying at Ronald McDonald House, it wouldn’t have been so easy to get checked when I noticed things weren’t right - and in turn, Blaire’s life may not have been saved.”
With the family home four hours’ away from Christchurch Hospital, staying with RMHC NZ removed the stress of distance and gave them precious time together. Even now, as Blaire continues to attend regular medical appointments, the family is welcomed back with the same warmth and kindness they felt in those first early weeks.
One of the most unexpected blessings for the family was the community they discovered at RMHC NZ. “The families we met during our stay were incredible. Each had their own story of challenge and resilience, and the strength they showed was inspiring. Sharing meals, cups of tea, and conversations created a sense of comfort we will carry with us forever.”
Through it all, RMHC NZ offered more than a place to stay, “they supported us with home-cooked meals, fresh baking, and most importantly, the chance to be near Blaire every single day,” says Lyndal, “the staff and volunteers offered emotional support that lightened the load and gave us moments of relief when everything felt heavy.”
Reflecting on their journey, Lyndal shares, “we are beyond thankful for the kindness, compassion, and love we received at Ronald McDonald House in Christchurch. Their support turned a time of uncertainty into one where we still felt the comfort of ‘home.’ From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for keeping our family close when it mattered most.”
