Testimonials
Stem Cell Transplant Story
All of a sudden there we were --- faced with mounds of information, most of which we didn't understand. There were all kinds of medical terms, life-threatening treatments, and acronyms like MDS, AML, BMT, and GVHD. We looked at each other wondering what to do and trying to comprehend everything. We realized that we'd have to reside in a strange city, trusting doctors we didn't even know while being at the mercy of an insurance company. We felt like we'd been uprooted from anything familiar until Mike's sister found the Serenity House Network website. We reviewed the information on the website and called Serenity House Network to talk with Greg and Jodie. We immediately knew, without even looking at the apartment, that this was the place for us. We called Greg on a Thursday night and met with him in Rochester at the Patrick apartment that following Saturday. We signed a rental contract that very day. He made us feel so comfortable even though we had just met. We instantly felt a bond and comfortable in "our new home".
We were in a situation where we felt utterly powerless over Mike's health, endless medical and scientific treatments, and insurance companies. Amongst all this were a couple of "angels" and the Serenity House Network. We would never have made it without Serenity House Network's support, compassion, and their wonderful place of refuge. It became our "home" for almost 3 months.
The support from Jodie and Greg was astounding. They knew when the time was right to talk, smile or leave us be which is a true testament to their compassion for the stressful medical situation we were experiencing. My husband was able to do the post-transplant procedures on an out-patient basis only because of Serenity House's environment and close proximity to the Mayo Clinic. We truly believe that Serenity House played a very important part in Mike's recovery. The Patrick apartment was close to a bike trail which provided the environment for the exercise required for Mike's recovery. It felt like home and had everything from a beautiful deck to a BBQ grill to a crock pot. All the simple things, the "homey" things we had at home were at Serenity House, available for our use.
All of this made each day of this journey a deliberate choice to live. Psalm 57 says, "In the shadow of Your wings, I will make my refuge until these calamities have passed by." The "wings" and "angels" of the Serenity House Network have helped fulfill such a wonderful mission. We are so thankful for the multitude of thoughts, prayers, and kindnesses provided by Greg and Jodie. They are both truly servants of God.
Believe it or not, the hardest thing for us to do at the end of 90 days was to leave the security of Serenity House, Rochester, and Mayo Clinic. Indeed, Greg and Jodie were our angels and we highly recommend their facilities.
Michael & Donna Manning
Aikman Family: Baptist Hospitality House
October 2011
How blessed we were to find the Serenity House Network! The house and accommodations were ideal. Better than ideal, if that is possible.
The Baptist Hospitality House is clean and comfortable. Having a Washer and dryer in the house is a blessing as well as quality furniture and comfortable beds. I had heart surgery and had to sleep in a recliner after being released from the hospital. I was very comfortable. Extra sheets and blankets were available for resting in the living room when I couldn't get out of a bed.
These people know what is needed for an extended medical stay. All of our needs were met. The location was perfect - a short distance to St. Mary's Hospital, HyVee (groceries) and Super Target.
I am a private person and was extremely comfortable in this residential setting. Watching squirrels, birds and children in the neighborhood from the back deck was very relaxing.
I would like to thank the Serenity House Network for all the planning and thought they have put into their properties. They have exceeded all of our needs and expectations. No surprises when we arrived, just everything exactly as they have described and pictured on the website.
Kayla and Baynum Aikman along with extended family Dar, Jude, Jeanette, Lyndol, Darryn and Tara: Louisianna
Snyder Family: Sunny Place Cottage
August 2011
Just wanted to take a moment to thank you for opening this home up to us. Your service provided us the wonderful opportunity to recover from Marr's liver transplant while keeping our family together without putting a tremendous hole in our budget. Your cottage had everything we needed and we couldn't ask for better hospitality.
Thank you very much!
The Snyders – Marr, Jenny, Parker, Anne and Ed: Virginia and South Dakota
Buchanan Family: Red River House
July 2011
Dear Heidi and Kevin,
We are going home tomorrow at last after being here almost a month. Our home away from home was truly a blessing. Thank you for sharing your lovely home with us during my son's 3 weeks at the Pain Rehabilitation Clinic (PRC). Coming home after an intensive, challenging day was always a true relief because of the peacefulness of the setting – the river, welcoming hosts, pretty flowers, and a place to stretch out and be comfortable.
Heidi, you were always available whether I needed to talk or cry. I love the plaque in the apartment bathroom: Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." We must cling to God's promise during difficult times when we feel our future is bleak.
The Serenity House Network was founded by 2 amazing people – Jodie and Greg. Additionally, they have found 2 amazing hosts that make their guests feel cared for in a very special way. Thanks, again, for your love and hospitality. If you are ever in east Tennessee, we'd love to have you stay in our home. I really mean that.
Love,
Terry Buchanan: Tennessee
Scapillato Family: Guathier House
July 2011
Dear All,
After years of frustration with the medical field, my husband and I decided coming to Mayo would be our last resort. We now have answers to my health, but we gained so much more from our stay here. Staying with the Serenity House Network made this possible – a gift from above.
Everyone was so friendly and we were able to relax with the comforts of home. When my husband had to leave and I stayed on my own, I was not worried because I knew I could turn to Jodie, Greg or Deb downstairs. Thank you so much for your help and also thanks to the Gauthier family for opening your beautiful home up to others. You are all wonderful people and your efforts to help Mayo patients are appreciated. We will surely see you soon for surgeries and follow-up visits. We wouldn't stay anywhere else.
God Bless and Thanks again!
Jenny and Greg Scapillato: Illinois
Walker Family: Red River House
April 2011
Since June 25th, 2010 our lives haves been turned upside down. A basic middle class family, my husband found out he had a tumor on his heart. This case is so rare that only 7 other cases have been reported in the world. My husband was hospitalized from June 25-Aug 31, 2010. Our finances instantly got cut in half. On top of everything else that we were dealing with, we found out that the only doctor skilled enough to perform the necessary surgery was located in Rochester, MN.
Getting to and finding a place to stay that we could afford would truly be an act of God. I am glad to know that God takes care of all His children. After speaking with someone at the Mayo Clinic about our financial hardship we were told about the Serenity House Network. After speaking with them on the phone I felt there was hope. This place sounded like a place I really wanted to be. I knew I was blessed when God gave me the funds to be able to stay at the Red River House. There, I met an angel named Heidi.
In the midst of my storm, God gave me an awesome resting place. After being at the hospital all day tending to my husband it was nice to come home, not to a cold hotel room but a warm house that I truly felt peace in. This is truly a piece of heaven. It is run by God's angels.
Heidi is a truly awesome person. She extends her heart as well as her home. Words cannot express the gratitude my husband and I feel. Thank you Heidi for sharing your piece of heaven with us.
Thank you, God, for giving me peace in the midst of my storm by giving me green pastures to lay in.
Sincerely,
Daryl and Octavia Walker: Virginia
God Bless the Serenity House Network!
Swain Family: Baptist Hospitality House (Sleep Rooms)
March 2011
This is truly a place of peace in the midst of chaos. Being in a home with all the comforts and necessities you could want, it made our month-long stay far better than we ever hoped for. With Greg's calm, steady spirit and hearty welcome, Jodie's warm, gracious hospitality and Mike's sweet stewardship we could not have been better blessed! Thank you God for leading us to Serenity House Network and Baptist Hospitality House.
April (daughter): Wyoming
This house has blessed us by being "home" for more than a month. It is my prayer that those who follow us will find many blessings here. Each of the families who came and went during our stay became a little bit of our family. I thank God for each of them and for the "family" of Serenity House Network. You each bring so much to those of us who have stayed here.
Melinda Swain (mother): Wyoming
Carter Family: Red River House
January 2011
We both thank you so much for your hospitality and sharing your home with us. We loved our talks and laughs with Heidi every day. We also liked the time we spent talking with Kevin and Heidi about our faith and how it applies in our lives and current situation.
Kendale was being treated at Mayo for what we came thinking was a life-threatening disease. We leave knowing that it is much less serious and he will live a long, healthy life. We both felt very relaxed in the Red River House and enjoyed the wildlife and scenery. It was very cozy and felt like home. We took lots of pictures of the snow and river which came out beautifully. It was like being on vacation (just wish the circumstances bringing us here were better).
We were also invited to church with Jodie and we loved the service immensely. It was very much like our home church and the message was great. Thank you, Jodie, for the invitation and experience.
I hope everyone coming in after us enjoys their stay as much as we did. And again, our hearts are grateful to Jodie, Greg, Kevin and Heidi for their kindness and hospitality.
Take Care and God Bless,
The Carter's: Missouri
Richter Family
November 2010
This home has truly been a blessing for me and my family this week. We came into Rochester the week of Thanksgiving and I began treatment first thing Monday morning. Everything about this house made me feel like home. My husband had a chair, my daughter had room to play, and my mother – a kitchen to cook Thanksgiving dinner! Me…comfort in each room for my healing. We truly serve a "Big God". The blessings on my life, trials and healing have been abundant this week. Thank you, Jesus, for the Serenity House Network, Greg and Jodie and all the families that help make this possible.
For the families coming in: may God bless you, heal you, comfort you, and bring "peace that transcends all understanding" to you.
Jennifer Richter and family: Idaho
Smith Family: Red River House
May 2010
Discovering Serenity House Network on the Mayo website, then being placed at the Red River House was the hand of God. When I began to look for accommodations, I prayed to find an inexpensive accommodation with a Baptist affiliation. I knew it might not be Southern Baptist, but if were, it would be the icing on the cake. As I read the summaries of each accommodation, I was so thankful to come across Serenity House Network. As a lifelong Southern Baptist and actively involved in my church wherever we lived, I knew I would be among people who believed in and valued those things which have been an integral part of my life for all of my life. In short, it would be like being home. This is just what Red River House has provided. It seemed as though I was at home among people who loved me, cared about me and were friends. When facing what we came here to face that gives a peace that only God could provide. Thank-you for opening up your home to provide this ministry.
Thank you!
The Smith Family: Mississippi
Manning Family: Patrick Apartment
June 2009
Dear Greg and Jodie,
In a situation that feels utterly powerless, when your body betrays you, when you need endless medical and scientific treatment, when you're at the mercy of insurance companies and God to keep you alive -amongst all this – are a couple of "angels" and the Serenity House. We couldn't ever have made it without your support, compassion, and your wonderful place of refuge. It became our "home" for almost 3 months.
All of this made each day of this journey a deliberate choice to live. Psalm 57 says, "In the shadow of Your wings, I will make my refuge until these calamities have passed by." The "wings" and "angels" of the Serenity House have created and fulfilled such a wonderful mission. Thank you for the multitude of thoughts, prayers, and kindnesses. You are both truly servants of God – thanks much for being the angels.
Always remembered in our hearts,
Mike and Donna Manning: Iowa
Diepenbrock Family: Brigid Apartment
June 2009
Our son, AJ, who is now 21 has had a heart condition since the day he was born. By age 3, he was due to have his 4th surgery, a modified Fontan at Mayo Clinic – St. Mary's Hospital. Years have passed as it was time again to update AJ's Fontan with the "new" type of bypass surgery they now do.
While searching for long-term housing via the internet, I came across Serenity House and contacted Greg to get all the information. It didn't take long into our phone conversation for all of us to realize this was the place for us to stay.
We arrived June 10th, 2009 with a wonderful welcome from Greg and Jodie! It was so much more than we expected; our prayers were answered as we settled in for the long haul. AJ had surgery Friday June 12th and Greg called to make sure all went well. He kept in touch with us and even left us a great treat, just when we needed it. I cannot tell or express how wonderful it has been to be able to stay in an atmosphere that you can leave all your worries at the door and just be able to concentrate on the reason we were here – AJ's recovery.
We are able to head back to Kansas today, June 22nd – two weeks earlier than we anticipated. AJ is well enough to travel and we are so very sad to leave the friends we have made here at Serenity House. We wish Greg and Jodie the best on their health and THANK YOU both for starting this wonderful home for all that have been and that will continue to stay for the same reasons we have.
God Bless you both!
Paul, DeAnn and AJ Diepenbrock: Kansas
Wynne Family: Patrick Apartment
April 2009
Dear Jodie and Greg,
Our stay at Serenity House has made this trip to Rochester more peaceful and calm. It was wonderful to come back from the hospital at night to the apartment to pray and rest. Thank you for following the Lord, and in the process blessing our family and the many that will follow us! When both of you came to the hospital to visit Alan and sat on the outdoor deck, Alan loved that! After you left he said, "That felt so good to just talk, I felt normal for a while."
Jodie, we are deeply grateful for you and your family's help. God used you in our time of emotional and physical need. Over the 9 hour drive here, Alan and I reflected on how you put aside everything for a time to meet our need!!! We felt helpless – alone – God sent you! You were and are an answer to prayer.
With love, Cindy: Kansas
Hogan Family: Brigid Apartment
May 2009
Keith and I were SO in need of rest when we came here. Not just physical rest, but a place of comfort. Although our stay was short I feel we both found that rest here. Meeting Greg and Jodie not only boosted our spirits, but gave us the hope and encouragement that we have needed for quite some time. We came here expecting a miracle and God met us here with an answer. We are leaving Mayo for the first time with no surgery or further care needed at this time for our daughter, Rachel. God has been faithful and we are thankful with our lives for that.
Our time here has been so peaceful; something we could have NEVER had at a hotel. Thank you so much for letting us stay here and for letting us become a part of your lives. We will never forget the both of you and I pray that God would bless you abundantly in your work here.
We love you and will keep you in our prayers. Please keep us posted.
Love and Prayers,
Keith, Debbie and Rachel Hogan: Arkansas
Crow Family: Brigid Apartment
January 2009
Brad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August and knew that he needed to be in Rochester for a six week stay. While in Rochester setting up treatment we met with Greg and Jodie.
The first time we came into the Serenity House apartment it felt like home away from home. The apartment has enough room that Brad was never alone and we had room for friends and family to come and visit. We were able to cook home-cooked meals and even bake.
I believe everything happens for a reason. This has been our home and we'll tell anyone who needs to spend time in Rochester receiving treatment that this is the place to be. We want to tell you that we truly believe our being able to get into Serenity House the way it worked out is a "God Thing". God Bless Jodie and Greg. You are now part of our family.
Love,
Brad, Pat, Blake, Taylor and Amber Crow: Minnesota
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