The life of Thomas “Tom” Mournighan continues to inspire a year after his passing thanks to the love of his family, friends… and a race car.
Tom, who received a lung transplant in September 2008 after being diagnosed with progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF), traveled from Boston to UPMC Presbyterian for care and often stayed at Family House during his visits. Family House gave Tom and his surviving wife, Cathy Symons, something invaluable: a sense of belonging.
“He wanted to meet others who had been through the same or similar transplant journeys,” shared Cathy. “He wanted to share stories, learn from them, and maybe even help those who were waiting.”
For Tom, the friendships he formed at Family House were life-giving.
Tom lived for 16 years following his transplant, using that time to encourage others. Those closest to him describe him as compassionate, honest, and humble, someone who would always put others first.
When Tom passed away in March 2024, Cathy, with Tom’s close friend Doug Reinbold, was inspired by Tom’s memory to give back. Doug produced an idea: dedicate the late model race car that he owned to Donate Life and Family House in Tom’s honor. With each lap completed during a race at Seekonk Speedway in Massachusetts in June 2025, Doug pledged donations to Family House and others joined in. The event raised more than $1,300.
“There are car shows and races every weekend at Seekonk,” Doug said. “But this was something different. This race carried Tom’s story forward and made a real impact.”
Tom’s legacy lives not only in the lives he touched, but also through the generosity his friends and family continue in his name.
At Family House, we are humbled by Cathy and Doug’s gift. Their tribute reminds us that Family House is more than a place to stay, but a place where stories like Tom’s are cherished, shared, and carried forward.
You can donate in memory of a loved one and help support the medical journeys of future patients and caregivers staying with Family House.
By donating to Family House, you help provide comfort, financial relief, and emotional support to patients and their caregivers when it is needed most.
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