Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
One simple way to help families like this one on October 15 + every day
Reading time: 5 minutes
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Susan and Eric Jernigan spent countless hours at UAB and Children’s Hospital between 2012 and 2014 as their daughter Emma Kate faced significant health challenges.
Luckily, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama in Birmingham gave their family a safe space and solace during an incredibly difficult time.
Day of Change, the anniversary of the opening of the first Ronald McDonald House, is celebrating 50 years of helping families stay together during a child’s medical journey. Read more to find out how you can get involved.
Meet the Jernigan family from Dothan, AL
In August of 2012, Susan was rushed to UAB when her baby showed signs of limited growth in the womb. Three days later, her daughter Emma Kate was born at 27 weeks weighing only 15 ounces.
After being discharged, Susan feared she couldn’t afford to stay in town while Emma Kate received the critical care she needed. Thanks to the Ronald McDonald House, she was able to remain in Birmingham and fight right by her daughter’s side.
“It was such a blessing having the peace of mind to not have to worry about paying for expensive hotels or being far away from my baby while she got better.”
Susan Jernigan
Unfortunately, two years ago, Emma Kate passed away unexpectedly.
But despite the Jernigan’s tragic loss, their story has come full circle. Susan and Eric have returned to Birmingham, staying at the Ronald McDonald House once again as they wait to adopt their new three-year-old baby boy, Jack.
“We always talked about adopting, and when we heard about Jack, we knew it was time. Jack shares similar health challenges to those we experienced with Emma Kate and just needs a family to love and care for him.”
Susan Jernigan
Learn more about Round-Up for RMHC
Each year around this time, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) across the globe celebrate the positive impact generated by the RMHC Donation Box and the Round-Up for RMHC initiative driven by McDonald’s, their founding and forever mission partner.
So far in 2024, $1.1 million has been raised through the Round-Up for RMHC fundraiser. This amount covers 8,800 nights at the Ronald McDonald House, which provides over 20,000 nights annually to families in need.
RMHC of Alabama proudly celebrates and gives thanks to the McDonald’s crew and customers for their daily support in helping raise the $3.7 million needed to keep the Ronald McDonald House doors open.
“I’ve always rounded up my orders at McDonald’s and never realized how much of a positive impact it had until I was witnessing it firsthand.”
Susan Jernigan
Celebrate Day of Change by rounding up at McDonald’s
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) partners with local McDonald’s owners and operators year-round to make sure families across Alabama have a place to stay while their child receives medical care in Birmingham.
On top of the donations received by patrons, McDonald’s owners and operators do their part by donating a penny for each Happy Meal and a penny for each pound of french fries sold.
The history between McDonald’s and RMHC runs deep. The love for families and community is what motivates McDonald’s customers and crew to continue supporting the mission.
“They do so much for families. They offer more than a roof over your head and food on the table—they provide a community of people who truly understand what you’re going through.”
Susan Jernigan
Snag a Day of Change Shirt to support local families
Here’s how you can give back this year:
- Round up your McDonald’s order total between October 15 and October 20.
- Visit the Day of Change website
- Upload a picture of your receipt.
Once you’ve taken these steps, you’ll receive a FREE Day of Change Commemorative T-shirt while supplies last. No worries if you miss this opportunity, you can also check out the Round-Up for RMHC T-shirt options.
“The Ronald McDonald House and people’s generosity genuinely saved my family. I would encourage everyone to think about what you would do if it were your child or your family that was in need, and donate whenever you have the chance.”
Susan Jernigan
You can be a part of something truly meaningful by supporting RMHC of Alabama as they continue to help families with sick or injured children stick together.
Give back to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama today—make a donation, sponsor a meal, volunteer or round up to change a local family’s life for the better.
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