Family House By Colleen Westberg, Blacktie Staff The title “Family House” reveals the philosophy behind the accommodations for patients of Pittsburgh’s medical institutions. They provide not merely a roof over someone’s head, but are a welcoming, inclusive home, where all are treated as family. Rates are affordable, plus the kitchen facilities allow guests to cook their own meals. But the most important aspect is the emotional support that is given by those who have gone through similar medical experiences. The Women’s Auxiliary of the American Cancer Society and the University Health Center of Pittsburgh first conceived the idea for Family House in 1980. They had observed too many family members of those receiving medical care having to sleep in hospital corridors and waiting rooms. The first Family House opened in November of 1983 in a refurbished mansion, close to Pittsburgh’s hospital complex. The 39 rooms of McKee were constantly filled, so in 1989 a second Family House was built on North Neville Street. In 2001 Family House Shadyside opened its doors. Over 80 rooms and suites are available through the Family House complex. There are also shuttle services available between locations. The Family House enterprise has grown into a much-emulated model of family/patient support systems. Even medical planners from overseas have come to observe how Pittsburgh, as a major medical center, has benefited from Family House. The Houses are located in neighborhoods near the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the Western Pennsylvania Hospital, and other hospitals in the Pittsburgh area. Volunteers are an essential component of Family House. A typical volunteer provides a 2-4 hour shift each month. Duties include taking reservations, working at the front desk, or welcoming and orienting new guests. Holiday Volunteers bring cheer to special days, and often host parties and activities for those staying at Family House. The staff anticipates and fulfills the needs of each and every guest. As medical innovations continue to multiply, Family House remains an essential part of patients’ recovery. Family House became the first to host bone marrow transplant recipients, patients who need to spend at least 100 days in recovery. Family House Neville is even equipped to accommodate guests implanted with an artificial heart pump called Novacor. It was the first out-of- hospital facility to receive Federal Drug Administration approval to house patients on Novacor. Family House receives no government funding, but is a non-profit corporation operated by a voluntary board of directors. Thanks to the generosity and support of the Pittsburgh community, they are able to provide a comfortable haven for those going through stressful times.