Meet Riley

I would like to share my daughters story, and how Kerrington’s Heart has blessed my family. 4 years ago God blessed me with a beautiful baby girl. Her name is Riley. It Started out as one of the most joyous days of my life until the doctor told us your daughter has to go to Kosairs Children’s Hospital that same day or she’s going to die because she has several heart defects. Life as I knew it stopped. I got on the ambulance with Riley, and left my life behind for 6 months until she was well. Here I was in a big city I knew nothing about. I had no money in my wallet, and only had the clothes on my back. The only thing I knew was I wasn't going to leave my daughters sight.

 After a couple days I heard about Kerrington’s Heart through the Ronald McDonald House. I was told Kerrington’s Heart was a great support for families with children who have CHD. I contacted the CEO via phone, and explained my situation. Kerrington’s heart was very compassionate, and said they was going to send me a care package. One of the items in the package was some food gift cards. I was beyond grateful, because I didn't have to worry where my next meal was coming. Through out my daughters hospital stay Kerrington’s heart continued emotional support, and meal vouchers. Christmas was very stressful being in the hospital, and Kerrington’s Heart surprised us by decorating Riley's room for Christmas.

Since we have been out of the hospital Kerrington’s heart has continued emotional support for my family. They are very close knit to the families they support. At anytime the board members, other families, and even the CEO make themselves available if you need support. One thing I enjoyed was they had a gathering for the dads. After we had our fun we sat around and shared our stories. I will never forget that night, because generally the dads feel they need to be strong for their families, and it was nice to talk about my bottled up emotions. This helped me begin the healing process for myself. This is a beautiful foundation, and I ask for anyone and everyone to donate in any way they are able to contribute, and support Kerrington’s Heart. If no one donated for me I would of went hungry, and who knows where I would be emotionally. Thank you everyone for taking the time to read this, and thank you Kerrington’s heart for everything you have done for my family!

Michael, Riley’s Dad