Alexander's Story

One of the most common threads that binds the families at the Ronald McDonald House is their surprise when they find out how the Ronald McDonald House can and will help them.  For little Alexander’s family, however, the first surprise came when Leslie and Jason learned the circumstances that would eventually bring them to the Ronald McDonald House.

Leslie’s pregnancy seemed right on track until doctors reviewing a routine ultra sound discovered they couldn’t see the baby’s stomach.   The family realized later that this would be the first indication of a surprising diagnosis to come.  

When Alexander was three months old, he developed a heart murmur that was not present at birth.  This was the second indication that everyday life going forward might be different for little Alexander and his family.  When Alexander turned six months old, he was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome.  

Williams Syndrome is a genetic condition but can skip several, if not many, generations.  Leslie and Jason had no idea there had been any history of this condition in their family prior to Alexander’s diagnosis.  It is said to occur in 1 in 7,500 births.          ·        

William’s Syndrome is most typically characterized by medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning disabilities.  Alexander also experiences seizures and gets the bulk of his nourishment from a nutritional drink he gets through a feeding tube.  While most William’s Syndrome children are very verbal, Alexander is an exception to the rule and does not speak other than a few choice words.  One of those special words, however, is “Dad”.  Priceless. 

Alexander will be six in February.  The family, including Alexander’s older sister, comes for doctor’s visits every six months to get his feeding tube changed and his little heart checked.  Several years ago, the family was referred to stay at the Ronald McDonald House during one of their doctor visits.  Leslie says they were in awe during their first visit to the charity.  It was more than they had ever imagined and they are grateful to everyone who has given so selflessly to make their stay possible – and so is Alexander.

MJ Schmidt

Executive Director

Thank you to Alexander's family for sharing their story!