This month, we celebrate a remarkable milestone: one year of providing comfort, support and respite to families through the Hogs for the Cause Family Support Home at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital.
Since opening its doors in February 2024, this invaluable resource has served 244 distinct families, with 126 of those families returning for more than one stay. In total, we have provided support for 293 children — both patients and siblings — and 505 adults, ensuring they have a comforting place to stay during their medical journey.
A Home Away from Home
Lovingly known as “Hogs House,” the Hogs for the Cause Family Support Home is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a refuge for families navigating the stress of their child’s medical care.
Located on the campus of Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, the home provides free accommodation for eligible families, allowing them to focus on what matters most: their child’s healing.
“For families facing a child’s serious illness, every ounce of emotional and financial relief matters,” says Melissa Anderson, director of patient experience for Our Lady of the Lake Health. “This home ensures that parents and caregivers can remain close to their child without the added burden of finding a place to stay.”
A Community of Care
Through the generosity of Hogs for the Cause, this support home was created to provide more than just shelter — it fosters a sense of community. Here, families can find comfort in shared experiences, lean on one another for support and take moments of respite in a setting designed for healing.
Each room accommodates up to three guests, with additional space for an infant, ensuring families can stay together during treatment. Parents of children receiving intensive or long-term inpatient care are given priority, and all stays are offered at no cost to those who qualify.
Meet Rosie, the Heart of Our Home
No celebration would be complete without a special mention of Rosie, our adorable pig ambassador for our Hogs House!
Named by our social media followers, Rosie symbolizes the warmth and welcoming spirit that makes this home so special. The character’s joyful presence helps spread awareness about this vital resource.
Stories of Hope
The impact of the Family Support Home goes beyond statistics — it’s about the real families we serve.
One of our youngest guests this year, Maverick, was especially fond of Rosie during his family’s stay. Read his story of strength and resilience as he lives with campomelic dysplasia.
Another story is that of a recent bone marrow transplant patient, whose family’s experience was made easier thanks to our Hogs House. Read about Ed’s experience with excellent care at Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on our first year, we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity and dedication that made this home a reality. But our work isn’t done — there are more families to serve, more lives to touch and more opportunities to provide comfort in times of need.
Here’s to another year of making a difference, one family at a time!
