Gina + Montario Mango

Gina’s journey began when she decided to become a single adoptive mother. She was waiting for her baby to find her, and on November 11, Montario Jamar did. Born at just 29 weeks and three pounds. Gina, who lives in Connecticut, received a call saying that Montario was waiting for her in Norfolk, Virginia. They had a long journey ahead of them, but they were together. Gina stayed at Ronald McDonald House Norfolk for 59 nights.
When I walked through the doors of Ronald McDonald House Norfolk, I felt calmer and more settled. It felt like a place where I could put down some of the stress and worry I was carrying. It felt like a place where I could find out how to become Montario’s mom. Staying at the house allowed me to be availabl e to Montario 24/7. It simplified life at a difficult time. It was a safe place close to the hospital. Knowing I had a home base with food took away the worry about finances. I felt supported, especially since I was alone and far from home, trying to navigate a whole new life. And, because of this, I was totally able to focus on Montario.

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