Patrick and Shawna Parkinson and their family have endured a great deal over the last few weeks. On August 22nd, their one-year-old daughter, Sierra, suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns on her face and body from an accident at their home in La Crosse, WI. Sierra was rushed to the local hospital, stabilized and transferred to the UW Hospital in Madison for intensive burn treatment.
After several days of sleeping on the couch in Sierra’s room, Patrick and Shawna were able to relocate to the Ronald McDonald House. Sierra was released from the hospital shortly thereafter and was able to join her family at the House. Requiring daily visits to the burn unit for treatment, Sierra and her family found the Ronald McDonald House just what the doctor ordered.
Sierra’s burns are healing remarkably well, and the family is hoping for minimal scarring. Although there are still several 3rd degree burns on her legs that are of concern, Sierra’s physicians are confident that with aggressive treatment, she will have a positive outcome.
Because of the outstanding care she received at the UW Hospital, Sierra will soon be able return home to see her big sister, Izabel, who has been staying with family during this traumatic time. Sierra and her parents will return to Madison in several weeks for a follow-up appointment to closely monitor Sierra’s healing process.
The Ronald McDonald House has offered the Parkinson family a home away from home. Along with many others in similar situations, a comfortable place where they can be together as a family is especially important. Patrick and Shawna have enjoyed their stay at the House and greatly appreciate the support from the staff and volunteers. Even though Sierra is wrapped in bandages to prevent infection, she has been a burst of sunshine and energy around the House!
On behalf of Sierra and her family, thank you for your ongoing support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison!
