Family Stories: Agnes and Milan

Watch the latest Family House Family Stories video: Agnes and Milan. They’ve traveled all the way from Hungary so Milan can participate in a clinical trial at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital.

Volunteer Spotlight: Lael Robertson

Lael Robertson is a superstar volunteer and has become an incredible asset at Family House. She started volunteering in May 2017 and has already made a huge impact in every department. She has logged more than 150 volunteer hours at Family House in just 9 months. Her dedication and compassion go beyond the tasks she performs, which include supporting volunteer group activities, helping with administrative
tasks and house projects, and in the development office. Lael has also helped run our daily breakfast service so staff could take a break without negatively impacting the families. She will soon be helping to support the front desk staff that works directly with families.

Lael is willing and able to help with any task that is asked of her and understands the importance of supporting our families. She takes care and treats every family with respect and dignity.

Lael shares and is a living example of the beliefs of Family House. Thank you, Lael, for all you have done over the past months and we hope that you continue to volunteer with Family House for many years to come!

Self-Care Kit

Self-Care Kit

When you’re going through a stressful time, it can be helpful to have care and comfort items at the ready, so you don’t have to go far to find some relief. Here are some suggestions for what might go into a self-care kit for yourself or someone you love:

Tissues

Mop up some tears or keep your germs to yourself – it’s the worst to need a tissue and not have one handy. Bonus: sharing with someone else who really needs one.

Hand Sanitizer

Especially during cold-and-flu season, it’s a must to have hand sanitizer available. If you’re immune-compromised, the last thing you need is to be exposed to other people’s germs. And if you’re sick, you don’t want to spread them around.

Lotion

Lots of hand washing, wintry weather, and even many medicines can leave your skin dry. Keep a small bottle of lotion handy (get it? Handy?) for when you need it.

 Snacks

Sometimes things feel overwhelming when you really just need a little food. Keep healthy, non-perishable snacks close by, such as almonds, crackers, or a peanut butter packet. Maybe keep a tea bag or some instant hot chocolate, too, for when you need something warm and soothing.

Inspirational Quotes

Keep some wise words handy, or ask your friends to write you some love notes to read when you’re feeling down.

Stuffed Animal or Comfort Item

It doesn’t matter how old you are, sometimes something soft and cuddly can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a stuffed animal, a soft blanket, or your favorite hoodie – reaching for a familiar comfort can help you get through a tough moment.

Headphones

Music is one of the most therapeutic things out there, because you can find the groove that best fits your mood. Keep a pair of headphones handy for when you need to tune out the outside world.

A Notebook

Expressing your thoughts and feelings on paper can be a huge relief! Or, it can be very helpful to write things down so you don’t forget – what the doctor said, your next appointment, or even your shopping list.

Coloring Book

Adult coloring books are all the rage, and we remember why we loved to color as kids! If you haven’t tried it lately, we highly recommend it.

Manicure Kit

Need some down time? Take a few minutes to paint your finger or toenails. Not only will you feel a little prettier, but it’ll be a good distraction and excuse to chill out while you wait for the polish to dry.

Fuzzy Socks

Pick up some cute socks to wear instead of the ugly ones they give you at the hospital. Why not add some fun flair to your outfit?

Favorite Movies

If you don’t know where to start for some good pick-me-up screen time, ask around. Chances are, your friends can recommend a movie or TV series that will get you smiling.

Pictures

Keep your favorite people and places close at hand with some of your favorite photos! Tip: If you can keep them in your phone’s photo library, you won’t have to worry about a wifi connection to see your favorite faces.

What's in your comfort kit?