Sherri Lapinski lives in Spring Lake, North Carolina in Harnett County.  Her first stay at Family House was back in 2015 when her husband, Frank, was being treated at UNC Hospitals for sepsis, which later compromised his immune system.  Sadly, he passed away a year later.

Sherri found herself back at our Hospitality House recently as the patient, having been diagnosed with Stage 3 lung cancer.  This time around, her sister, Valarie, who flew out here from Texas, was here to support her while she underwent several weeks of chemotherapy and radiation for small-cell carcinoma.

In between treatments and being her sister’s rock, you could often find Valarie in their Pine room, crafting away or engaging in conversations with the guests, volunteers, and staff.

Asked what staying here has meant to them, Sherri shared, “It’s convenient.  It’s only a mile from the hospital. It’s a beautiful facility, and everyone is so incredibly kind.  I give this place five stars.

For Valarie, she told us that Family House was a “comfort in a time of dire need.  It’s not just a place to stay, it’s a peaceful place.”  What we observed was the pivotal role she played in Sherri’s medical journey; having a loved one here to support her meant everything.

We wish Sherri all the absolute best and hope that the next time we see her, she’ll be in remission.