Dempsey Family Story

"Ronald McDonald House - An Amazing Blessing"

Danny and Jana Dempsey of Ringgold Georgia are the proud parents of three delightful boys; five year old Garrett, two year old Gavin and their youngest son Garrison who was born prematurely, weighing a little more than 3 pounds on April 11, 2010.  

There were no early warning signs for the Dempseys. Jana enjoyed a normal pregnancy until she reached her 30^th week that’s when she began having complications, and soon after doctors performed a C-section so Jana could safely give birth to Garrison.

While Garrison receives the care he needs in the hospital, the Dempseys couldn’t imagine going home without their baby boy. They are grateful to have the Ronald McDonald House as a place to stay just across the street. 

“You just never think that it could happen to you. I never expected to be here. We live in Ringgold and for me to be able to go over to the hospital at least once a day, it’s been perfect,” said Jana Dempsey.

Jana remembers visiting the Ronald McDonald House as a teenager but never imagined she would need its services. She says being so close has also helped her family spend quality time together while making it easier for her to manage recovering from her surgery.

Danny Dempsey who works as a route sales associate for Coca Cola during the day, shares that it means the world to him to know his family has all the comforts of home during this critical time.

“The Ronald McDonald House has been an amazing blessing. As a dad, I’m used to being in control. It’s humbling when you have a place like the Ronald McDonald House that gives you assistance.”

The Dempseys have also enjoyed having access to the Ronald McDonald Family Room located inside Children’s Hospital at Erlanger. The Family Room is a safe haven for families to relax, refresh and recharge from caring for a loved one.

After their 3 week stay at Ronald McDonald House, the Dempseys were thrilled to take their newest family member home but share that they plan to give back to the organization by volunteering their time in the near future. Garrison now weighs 8 lbs. 5 oz and is doing great!