05 May A Mother’s Love…Lila’s Legacy
This Mother’s Day, honor strong moms like Lila’s mom, Julie, whose love knows no limits. Give today to support a mom in need.
When Julie and Korey learned at their 20-week ultrasound that their baby girl had a congenital heart defect and mosaic trisomy 16, their world changed forever. Facing uncertainty and fear, they made a plan to welcome Lila into the world with the best medical care possible at University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. As they prepared for her birth, Julie’s mother, Beth, stood by her side—because sometimes, no matter how strong a mother is, she just needs her own mom, too.
On May 13, 2023, just a day before Mother’s Day, Lila was born. From the very start, she showed incredible strength. At one month old, she had her first heart surgery. As her family held onto hope. Lila was strong enough to be discharged to grow bigger and stronger at home before her next procedure. But soon, Lila became critically ill and had to be rushed back to the hospital. In all of the chaos, Julie packed only for Lila, arriving at the PCTU with just the clothes on her back.
That is when Ronald McDonald House Charities Ann Arbor (RMHCAA) became their home away from home. Within a day, Julie had a room—a quiet place to rest, a warm meal waiting for her, and even the essentials she left behind in the rush to the hospital. Thanks to you and donors like you, the House gave her more than just a place to stay—it provided comfort, stability, and a sense of home during an uncertain time. Your support made it possible for her to be just minutes from Lila’s bedside, and to care for herself so she could best participate in Lila’s care. And when she needed her own mother, Beth could be there, too, wrapping her in the love and support only a mother can give.
For four months, Lila fought bravely, but she passed away surrounded by her loving family. In the depths of grief, Julie turned her love into action by honoring Lila’s legacy and creating Lila’s Fund to support families walking similar medical journeys. Lila’s Fund has focused on supporting items included in RMHCAA’s “Our House to Yours” going home bags. These bags are provided to families at check-out of the House and include essentials for the first 24 hours back home, offering a small gesture of comfort and support during their child’s medical journey.
Your gift today will help build on Lila’s legacy, helping families when they need it most. This Mother’s Day, please consider honoring your mother and give the gift of togetherness to families in need.