Oklahoma natives Andrea and Mark had lived in Japan for three years when their son, Nathan, was born on July 23. Four days later, Nathan appeared jaundiced, and routine blood tests turned up problems that were anything but routine.

After many discussions with Japanese doctors, it was clear that they must return to the United States for further evaluation and treatment. It has been learned that Nathan has Multifocal Lymphangioendotheliomatosis with Thrombocytopenia, a disease so rare that doctors have identified only 19 people worldwide diagnosed with it. The family was told that there is no cure and that for several months they must remain in the U.S. to be close to Children's Hospital for blood transfusions due to Nathan's low levels of platelets and red blood cells.

The family stayed at the House in a long-term room for 166 days. They are grateful for all the House had to offer. "One of the best things about the House was meeting other parents who understood exactly what we were going through," they said. "We bless this place."

Jack's mother was told 21 weeks into her pregnancy that there was no guarantee of her baby making it through the pregnancy as doctors were concerned about fetal hydrops (heart failure) occurring. The 4 1/2 months following were a long and difficult road. Luckily, baby Jack was born and six weeks later they began surgery. The lower lobe from Jack's right lung was removed due to a tumor that formed there during the pregnancy.

The family was scared and fearful, but the accommodations that the Ronald McDonald House offered made the trying time a lot less stressful and a little more calming. They were able to fully concentrate on getting their son out of the hospital and home again to his big sisters!

The doctors don't expect any future complications and they are looking forward to a future filled with happiness and good health.