10 Feb Comfort, Love, and Resilience

For Jessica Allen, the journey with her son, Gabriel Peterson, has been one of love, challenges, and resilience. At just eight days old, Gabriel went into cardiogenic shock and was flown to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) from the Lehigh Valley. During this critical time, he was placed on life support. The family needed a place to stay where they could be together and take care of their two daughters, and the Ronald McDonald House welcomed them with open arms.

“Walking into the Ronald McDonald House as a family was like stepping into a place of comfort and love,” Jessica shared. “It wasn’t just a place to stay—it was a safe haven where my kids could be themselves, even during such a devastating time.” Gabriel, now nine, has undergone seven heart surgeries and continues to live with a congenital heart defect. Through it all, the House has been a constant source of support. “We’ve stayed here a total of 17 times, and it’s been a huge blessing,” Jessica explained. “From warm meals to lifelong friendships, the House gave us so much more than just a roof over our heads. It gave us a sense of normalcy in the midst of chaos.”

Jessica’s daughters even formed lasting connections at the House. “My 13-year-old recently told me she’s still in touch with a friend she made here when she was three. That’s the kind of lasting impact this place has,” she said. For Gabriel, who will require lifelong care, the House remains a second home. It’s a place where he can simply be a kid, and where his family can find strength and community. “This House is truly built on love,” Jessica said. And for families like hers that love makes all the difference.