Mady’s Pantry collects items for RMHC Madison

November 21st, 2014 | Our Partners

Madyson Jacobs would have been 8 years old this year. She was born on Dec. 19, 2006 and passed on March 5, 2012. Mady was diagnosed with Walker-Warburg Syndrome, a rare form of muscular dystrophy. Her life was filled with numerous doctor visits and trips to the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison, but her parents, JR and Heather Jacobs, made her a big part of the community of Lena, Illinois. While she was in the hospital, her parents stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Madison. Mady defied the odds and lived to be 5 years old.

To honor their daughter, Heather and JR created Mady’s Pantry, an annual supply drive to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison. This week, the family including brothers Braden, 9, and Brody, 3, drove a trailer filled with items they collected from our wish list. Sullivan’s Food in Lena served as the collection point where the whole community could get involved. This is the third year for the drive. It is one of the largest “drop offs” for the House and is such a beautiful way to remember Mady while helping other families dealing with the illness of a child they love.

“J.R. and I again are at a loss of words for the unbelievable turnout to Mady’s Pantry this year. We had our largest drive to date. We started this charity in honor of Mady three years ago to remember her, and pay forward to the Ronald McDonald House. We are so honored to represent our community, friends and family with this donation to the Ronald McDonald house Charities of Madison… I know our sweet baby girl is smiling down, and her heart is full knowing the generosity of everybody. Mady was only with us on earth for a short time, but she continues to inspire each and every day,” Heather said.

Thank you to the Jacob’s Family for your generosity. You are truly and inspiration to us all. See pictures from the donation on our Facebook page and Mady’s Pantry Facebook page.