On August 2, 2022, Henry Wolfe, then 18-years-old, experienced a life-altering event that changed his family’s world forever. He was life-flighted to Allegheny General Hospital after suffering an anoxic brain injury and was unresponsive. Doctors were uncertain if he would survive, and even less certain if he could ever function independently. At one point, the family was advised to begin researching nursing homes that could care for patients on ventilators.
Henry spent more than 100 days in a coma and five months hospitalized, navigating multiple transfers—from Allegheny General Hospital to Select Specialty Hospital at UPMC, and finally to UPMC’s Center for Brain Injury Rehabilitation. For his family, located in Indiana, PA, the distance made daily visits impossible, particularly during nights when they received urgent calls about his deteriorating condition.
The crisis drew relatives from across the country—from Colorado, Idaho, and Florida—to be with Henry. Coordinating accommodations and managing logistics quickly became overwhelming. Amid this uncertainty, the family discovered Family House through an elevator advertisement at Allegheny General Hospital. They reserved a room and found not just lodging, but a comforting community.
Family House provided a safe, welcoming space where the family could stay together and support one another. The staff’s compassion and the sense of community among other families in crisis offered comfort during the most challenging days. The kitchen became a gathering place for meals, shared tears, and quiet moments of reflection.
For Henry’s mother, the security of having a car parked safely in front of the building and a place to rest between hospital visits was invaluable. Eventually, the family transitioned to an apartment within Family House, providing the space and privacy needed to make critical care decisions while maintaining the closeness that sustained them.
Henry’s recovery has been remarkable. Though he was initially discharged in a wheelchair with an uncertain future, he now works at First Commonwealth Bank, has earned his driver’s license, and is walking and functioning independently. He continues therapy for memory support, and his neurologist has hailed him as a “rock star” for his progress.
Henry’s story highlights the critical role Family House plays in supporting families facing medical crises and underscores the importance of community in helping individuals overcome life-changing challenges.
By donating to Family House, you help provide comfort, financial relief, and emotional support to patients and their caregivers when it is needed most.
Support Family House: familyhouse.org/donate
