For more than a decade starting in 2015, Ivan and Kayla Hall’s lives have been shaped by a long, often difficult medical journey. Their journey brought them to Pittsburgh, and to Family House, where they found not only comfort and care, but a true community.
Kayla was first diagnosed with fatty liver disease ten years ago, a condition that gradually progressed to non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Her local gastroenterologist warned her that a liver transplant would be necessary within a decade. Over the years, as Kayla’s health declined, Ivan, her husband, became her steadfast caregiver, navigating countless hospital visits and late nights in emergency rooms as her condition worsened.
Five years ago, the couple was referred to UPMC Montefiore to begin the transplant evaluation process. Though Kayla was extremely ill, her disease had not yet progressed to the point where a transplant could be approved. “With liver disease, it has to be the last thing you do,” Ivan recalled. Still, the couple continued making the trip to Pittsburgh from the town of Dawson, PA for evaluations.
During one of those visits to Pittsburgh, the Hall family discovered Family House.
Upon entering the doors of Family House, Ivan described the facility as “the best place you could ever go to.” During one of their early stays, Ivan and Kayla attended a liver transplant support group. “We met two patients who had just had their liver transplants,” Ivan said. “Talking to them and asking questions helped prepare us, and me as a caregiver, for what was ahead.”
Years passed, and Kayla’s condition unfortunately deteriorated further, however, she was eventually approved for a living donor transplant. Miraculously, their son, Ivan Hall Jr., turned out to be a perfect match.
On April 3, 2025, both Kayla and Ivan, Jr. underwent surgery at UPMC Montefiore. Ivan recalls the day with awe and gratitude: “My son did wonderfully and is fully recovered. My wife had some complications, but she pulled through.”
With those complications, Kayla’s recovery required a prolonged stay in Pittsburgh, 63 days in total, which the couple spent at Family House. During that time, Ivan experienced the full scope of Family House’s community and care.
“The biggest thing for us was the support system,” Ivan shared. “Family House isn’t a hotel; it’s a wellness center. You meet people who are going through the same thing: liver transplants, kidney transplants, cancer treatments, and heart surgeries. You talk, share stories, and help each other heal.”
He remembers nights spent in the community rooms working on puzzles with other guests until the early hours of the morning. “That’s therapy,” he said. “It helps you get through it.”
Family House’s amenities and programs made daily life easier. Ivan praised the free Daily Healthy Breakfast Program, providing “nutritious meals that take into account transplant patients’ special needs,” as well as the spotless cleanliness of Family House that made him feel safe. He also relied heavily on Family House’s transportation services. “For people who don’t know Pittsburgh, those shuttle buses are lifesavers,” he said. “And the drivers are phenomenal. They go above and beyond for every guest.”
Beyond the basics, Ivan appreciated the emotional and spiritual support offered by staff and volunteers. The Halls also took part in Family House community events, including recitals, barbecues, and special dinners provided by volunteers. “People don’t realize how important that is,” Ivan said. “It’s not just about food. It gives caregivers like me a little emotional break.”
Today, Kayla is in post-transplant care and doing remarkably well. The couple recently returned to Pittsburgh in the fall of 2025 for her follow-up appointments, grateful for how far they’ve come.
Looking back, Ivan reflects on what Family House meant to him: “If you’re going to Pittsburgh for medical treatment, stay at Family House. If you don’t, you’re missing out. It’s not just a place to sleep, it’s a home away from home. “Without Family House, none of this would have been possible.”
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
