Health: Hosts For Hospitals
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The kindness of strangers taken to a new level for people who come to Philadelphia for medical treatments. Medical Reporter Stephanie Stahl reports.
Patients come to Philadelphia from all over the world for cutting edge treatments. Their families often struggle to find places to stay. Hotels are too expensive for many. One organization is changing that.
Two-year-old Jilliann Kimble is at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for more heart surgery. She was born with a congenital defect that Children's Hospital is world renowned for treating. So they routinely make the trip from upstate New York, and stay with a family in Merion.
"We feel like we have a family in Philadelphia, rather than coming to a city of strangers. We have family here," said Joy Kimble, Jilliann's mother.
Kathryn and Mark Miani have opened their home and their hearts for the Kimble's.
"There is no greater act of faith and leap of faith than opening your house to a perfect stranger in need," said Kathryn.
The families came together through an organization called Hosts for Hospitals.
"We provide free lodging for patient families at private host homes," said Mike Aichenbaum, the Executive Director for Host for Hospitals.
Jilliann, when she's not in the hospital, plays with the Miani boys, just like family.
"It's good that there are so many people that are willing to take in family's that have needs and need somewhere to stay," said Luke Miani, who is 11-years-old.
Most families like the Kimble's can't afford a hotel. Ronald McDonald house is only for pediatric families, and not always available.
Before Hosts for Hospitals, Joy stayed on a hospital cot, and her husband, Craig, slept in the car or a waiting room.
"I can't say enough good about it. It's been wonderful," said Joy.
Hosts for Hospitals is free for any patients or family coming to the Philadelphia area for medical treatments.
For more information or to become a host family call 610-660-6667.
Reported By: Stephanie Stahl, CBS 3
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