Emma likes to joke that her dog, Zia, is so popular at Ronald McDonald House Morgantown that she’s practically a celebrity and Emma is just her agent. Anyone who has seen Zia walking into the House, tail wagging, knows the joke isn’t far from the truth.
For more than six months, Emma and Zia have been visiting families at Ronald McDonald House Morgantown regularly, offering comfort, connection, and a welcome pause along difficult medical journeys. For Emma, volunteering at the House is deeply personal. Growing up, her own family stayed at three different Ronald McDonald Houses while she and her sister received medical care. Returning now as a volunteer feels like coming full circle.
When families gather in the living room and settle onto the couches around Zia, something special happens. Conversations begin more easily and smiles appear.
“I have never seen families open up more to each other than when Zia brings them together,” said Jillian, Morgantown Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator.
Jillian remembers one evening in particular when Emma and Zia stayed longer than usual. Two moms, both spending time with Zia, started talking and soon realized their children shared the same medical condition. What began as casual conversation turned into something more. They exchanged stories, insights, and information about future treatments. That support might not have happened without that shared moment on the couch.
Emma is a college student, so sometimes her class schedule keeps her from bringing Zia to the House. Fortunately, Emma’s Mom, Dom, steps in to make sure families don’t miss out. It’s a family effort rooted in gratitude and a desire to help others.
For Emma, watching Zia’s effect on families has been incredibly meaningful. “It’s been rewarding to see her impact, providing distractions and smiles for so many,” she said.
Zia offers a quiet reminder that comfort can come in many forms. Sometimes it’s four paws, a wagging tail, and a wet nose–bringing people together exactly when they need it most.
