AmandaJoy Pruitt and her son, Adrick, have been coming to the Ronald McDonald House for almost 13 years. Adrick’s health concerns started when he was just a 1-year-old; he was flown from his home on the Eastern Shore up to Johns Hopkins due to his abnormal muscle movements. AmandaJoy recalls the first time Adrick came to Hopkins and says that she didn’t leave his bedside during their whole visit. She was living out of his hospital room and recalls how exhausting it was for the both of them, saying that she dreaded coming back. However, the second time that Adrick had to come back to Hopkins, her social worker told her about the Ronald McDonald House and booked them a room. She says that staying at Ronald McDonald House has been “such a big blessing” and a place for her to get a break from the stresses of hospital life.

            Unfortunately, Adrick’s health problems only grew, he started experiencing GI problems that lead to him passing out and causing problems in his immune system. AmandaJoy recalls how he was always sick and that “a simple cold could turn not so simple so quickly.” At the beginning of 2023, Adrick developed a swollen spot on his cheek that needed to be tested, this resulted in him needing a CAT scan. When the results came back, it was found that he had a brain tumor. AmandaJoy and Adrick were thrown a huge curveball, but they continued to remain positive. Thankfully, the brain tumor is benign and non-life threatening. It does result in Adrick having some blurred vision and coordination issues, but he continues to persevere.

            In addition to Hopkins, Adrick also seeks treatment at Kennedy Krieger Institute for autism. With Adrick having several specialists at facilities around the Ronald McDonald House, AmandaJoy and Adrick are regulars at the house. AmandaJoy says that the staff at Ronald McDonald have “literally seen him grow up here.” Adrick speaks fondly of his stays with us saying that it’s a second home for him and his mom, since he’s spent most of his life in and out of the House. AmandaJoy emphasizes how wonderful the RMH staff are and how welcomed and comforted they make her, and Adrick feel. AmandaJoy says that they always know they will feel better and comforted when they get to our House saying, “I’m going to have a difficult day at the hospital but it’s okay I can go home” in reference to the Ronald McDonald House.

            Through difficult and frustrating times, Adrick and AmandaJoy continue to stay positive and overcome every challenge that comes their way. With the help and encouragement from the Ronald McDonald House, they are able to be supported and uplifted during this stressful time. AmandaJoy says that “coming here has really been a life saver for us,” that is what the Ronald McDonald House hopes to be for all families who stay with us.