Going Home With Gigi

After 711 days, going home for the first time together

An Unexpected Journey

Eliani Lawrence is a proud mother of four children. When Eliani was pregnant with her youngest child, Gigi, the family lived in Hawaii.

At 20 weeks pregnant, she got heartbreaking news: the left side of her baby’s heart wasn’t developing. Doctors said there was a chance to save her baby through surgeries, but Eliani would need to deliver in San Diego.

Eliani was scared for her baby’s survival and worried about what the future would hold. On top of that, she wondered how she could manage months away from home.

That’s when she found the Ronald McDonald House in San Diego, which became her home during Gigi’s long medical journey.

Eliani left Hawaii, leaving her older children with family, and stayed at San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House. It gave her a safe, supportive place to live while Gigi underwent surgeries and recovered. She could stay by her baby’s side, helping her through each step.

The Most Blessed Gift

But after several months, it wasn’t looking good for Gigi. She needed a heart transplant. Then, at just 11 months old, Gigi received a new heart. Eliani felt an overwhelming sense of hope and gratitude.

Gigi on bed at San Diego Ronald McDonald House — Gigi at the Ronald McDonald House

I believe Gigi is a blessing. With her, I’ve become grateful for the simplest things in life, and especially those I love and call family. – Eliani Lawrence

Together as a Family

As Gigi grew stronger, she was finally able to leave the hospital and stay with Eliani at the Ronald McDonald House. Eventually, her older siblings joined them too, bringing the family back together after a long separation.

The Ronald McDonald House was their home for 711 days. It gave Gigi the chance to start her life and kept their family close during a very hard time.

After Gigi’s recovery, the family moved to San Diego to stay near her doctors. Starting over wasn’t easy, but they are together, and Gigi is thriving.

Mother with four children — Eliani and family

Eliani is deeply thankful for San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House and the people who support it. Their kindness gave her family hope and helped Gigi survive. Now, she shares her story to honor them and to help other families who face similar challenges.