An Emergency Arrival
Brooklyn and Kade Lupenitz of Fayette, Alabama, were filled with anticipation when they learned they were expecting identical twin girls. But their joy soon gave way to concern when they discovered the pregnancy was classified as mo/mo. This rare and high-risk type of twin pregnancy means both babies share one placenta and one amniotic sac.
In these cases, complications can arise quickly. Cesarean delivery is typically recommended by 32 weeks to reduce risks to the babies. For Brooklyn, things began to escalate much earlier. At just 24 weeks pregnant, she was admitted to Northport Medical Center. Soon after, she was transferred to UAB Women & Infants Center in Birmingham for specialized care.
On October 23, 2019, at exactly 26 weeks, Brooklyn underwent an emergency C-section. Emma’s heart rate had dropped and wouldn’t recover. Both girls were rushed to the NICU in critical condition. Four days later, Emma passed away from complications of being born prematurely. That same day, Kailyn suffered a perforated bowel and was rushed into emergency surgery. “They told us if they didn’t operate, she would for sure pass away. So, we she had emergency surgery, and they were unsure whether she was going to make it” Brooklyn shared. But Kailyn survived and her journey had just begun.
Finding a Home Away from Home
When asked about their introduction to the Ronald McDonald House, Kade recalled how support came just in time: “Day three. The social worker was already talking to me about paperwork. By the time Brooklyn was discharged, I had everything set up.” Their first stay lasted 97 days, and since then, they’ve returned twice a year for three-week intensive therapy sessions for Kailyn, who was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy at one year old.
The Lupenitz family credits RMHCA with helping them survive the most difficult season of their lives, both emotionally and financially. “It saved us a lot of money, honestly,” Kade said. “You’re at the hospital for 12 to 14 hours a day. It gave us a warm bed to sleep in, which recharges you for the next day’s fight.”
The House’s location made a difference during their darkest moment. “The night Emma died, I was staying at the House,” Kade remembered. “They called and said, ‘You need to be here.’ I just ran across the street and made it in time.” Brooklyn shared how the community of other parents helped ease the emotional weight. “Talking with other parents at dinner—just seeing other people who understood what we were going through—meant a lot.”
Beyond lodging, RMHCA has given the Lupenitz family a sense of community, joy, and normalcy in the midst of medical chaos. From shared meals with other parents to tickets for Barons games that bring a smile to Kailyn’s face, the House has made a lasting impact
“This place gives families hope. Hope and a safe place to stay when your world is falling apart…if people haven’t been here, they don’t realize everything the House offers,” she added. “It’s more than a place to sleep. It’s a community. A support system. A sanctuary.”
Kade had a simple but powerful message for those who give their time and resources “I’d tell volunteers and donors to come talk to the parents. See what they’re going through. It’ll change your perspective. It helps you find gratitude for your own life.”
Support Families like the Lupenitz
Because of supporters like you, RMHC of Alabama can help families like the Lupenitz’s. Donate or volunteer to help bring comfort and care to families when it matters most.
