As we celebrate our 10th Anniversary, we’re inviting guests past and present to share their memories from their time staying at the House in their own words. Today, we’re sharing the story of Hartley and Gloriann Hutchins, two of our guests from our very first year as an organization.
Hartley and Gloriann arrived at the Cleveland Clinic from Western New York in the beginning of October 2014 for a consultation regarding Hartley’s heart treatment. Traveling half-way home, they received a cell call from the Cleveland Clinic that he needed to return for immediate care. Gloriann stayed at a local hotel with the uncertainty of the length of Hartley’s stay as well as the cost of lodging. Within a few days, Hartley’s son, Steve, visited to assist them. Before taking Steve back to the airport, he learned the most important information from Kay Kendall that changed Gloriann’s care. They rushed out of the hospital in the opposite direction of the airport to visit the Transplant House of Cleveland where an introduction to the apartment’s opening party was taking place. Gloriann signed up with Elaine and began a new living experience which enabled her to be close to her husband. One of the greatest conveniences at this apartment was a nearby shuttle to the hospital.
The apartment was located in a safe neighborhood with private parking. The apartment distinguished itself from a hotel room as a sanitized home completely furnished for the transplant patient and family. Hartley and Gloriann were most impressed with the comfort of the bed, pillows and spectacular reclining chair in the living room. The location of the clothes washer and dryer in the common area provided an area to interact with other patient families. Hartley received the gift of a heart on October 22, 2014. In early November, he moved into the transplant house. “I was thrilled with the accommodations. I heard a lot of wonderful things from Gloriann about the amenities, support and comfort of the apartment.There was nothing more we needed!”
Since it was winter, the heat was perfect. The kitchen was perfectly located and accessible. The apartment was a perfect “Home away from home.” As time went by, Hartley and Gloriann discovered the magic of the Wednesday communal dinners held in the common area provided by volunteer supporters of the Transplant house. These events brought together patients and families for a wonderful time of sharing and comfort.