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Meet Juliana

Juliana thrives in respite care at George Mark Children’s House

Nine-year-old Juliana was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a seizure disorder, and cortical blindness as an infant.

She lives with her mother and three brothers in Oakland in a two bedroom apartment that they share with another family. Because Juliana has seizures and needs to receive her feeds continuously, her mother’s nights are often sleepless. Respite care at George Mark offers tangible help that Juliana’s mother needs while also providing Juliana with a joyful, comforting experience away from her cramped home.

“I never felt comfortable leaving my daughter until I found George Mark. I know when she’s there, she’s in good hands and is loved.”

--Maria, Juliana’s mother

When Juliana is at George Mark, she loves the therapy animals and comes alive when they play music. Those stays also give her mother a much needed break and allow her to work double shifts to make ends meet. 


Our Beneficiaries

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
George Mark Children's House (GMCH) in San Leandro, California, is the first free-standing pediatric palliative care house in the United States. Founded in 2004, GMCH provides the comfort of home with the medical care of a top-notch hospital. GMCH exists to serve families with children who are chronically ill with a life-limiting illness and are seeking family-centered medical care that emphasizes quality of life in a compassionate, supportive atmosphere where kids can be kids and families can be families.

 

 

UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland's mission is to protect and advance the health and well-being of children through clinical care, teaching, and research. The hospital cares for more than 240,000 patients annually and welcomes all children, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or ability to pay. With values such as RESPECT, INTEGRITY, QUALITY, TEAMWORK, DIVERSITY, and STEWARDSHIP, their vision is to be a leader in children’s health.