In January of 2024, Jacqueline and Michael Bentley brought their 3-month-old son to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. Liam was being treated for an aggressive viral infection. The Bentley family live over an hour away and found comfort, care, and solace in the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park. Jacqueline and Michael could be with their son all day.
For several weeks, Jacqueline and Michael would eat breakfast and prepare for their long day at the hospital. The Ronald McDonald House made it possible for them to walk a few feet and be next to their sick child in less than five minutes. During the worst time of their lives, Jacqueline and Michael were able to stay strong and lean on each other. Ronald McDonald House made it possible for them to be present for their sick child until his devastating passing on February 2, 2024.
Helping Others in Need
In Liam Michael Bentley’s memory, the family has dedicated a room at Ronald McDonald House. The room was made possible through the charity and generosity of their loved ones. The room will provide families staying there with two warm, comfortable beds, a TV, desk, private bathroom, and a window looking directly onto Cohen Children’s Medical Center. The room is one of 42 unique bedrooms at Ronald McDonald House. Liam’s room has a safari theme to represent Liam’s love of animals.
Jacqueline hopes that Liam’s memory will live on at the Ronald McDonald House. She says that the outpouring of support from friends and family has helped to heal their hearts in the midst of their profound sorrow and loss.
Liam’s Garden
After Liam passed, the Bentley’s looked for ways to help others and honor Liam’s memory. The Room at Ronald McDonald House was one of many ways the Bentleys have shared Liam’s light with those around them. Many people from their families joined together to plant a beautiful garden in Liam’s memory. Today, the garden is flourishing. The garden serves as a reminder of how much Liam was loved and cherished in his short time here. In Jacqueline’s words: “He lives with us forever.”
