The Puccia Family

Tamara Puccia, of Watertown, N.Y., was 19 weeks pregnant with her son, Carmine, when an ultrasound revealed she had developed a complete placenta previa, a condition where the placenta is covering the cervix and creates a serious risk of bleeding. Sometimes this condition resolves itself, but in Tamara’s case it did not.

At 22 weeks, Tamara went to Crouse Hospital after she suffered severe bleeding. She was introduced to the CNY Ronald McDonald House by the staff at the hospital as she was required to be on bed rest until her son was born, and she also needed to be near the hospital in case of an emergency. Tamara was very happy to stay at the new House instead of the hospital because it provided her with a comfortable environment while she awaited the birth of her son. Tamara’s husband, Geoffrey, spent time at the House as well, but traveled back and forth from Syracuse to Watertown for work. Geoffrey, who is a chef, also prepared dinner for our guest families one night!

“The staff at the CNY Ronald House was so compassionate, and being there really offered me peace of mind during such a difficult time,” said Puccia.

Carmine was born on July 16, 2013 at 32 weeks and six days. He weighed 4 pounds, 6 ounces and was 17 inches long. Following the birth, Tamara returned to the CNY Ronald McDonald House for three weeks while her son received care at Crouse’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Today, both Tamara and Carmine are healthy and return to our House annually to prepare dinner for current guests.