Anchored in Compassion

Originally published in the spring 2025 edition of House Matters. Read the full publication here.

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In 2000, David and Marcie Lynn retired, sold their business, and bought a sailboat. Since then, they have traveled to more than 30 countries. But perhaps no journey has been as meaningful as the one from their home in Las Vegas to Winston-Salem in the fall of 2024.

The Lynns received a Christmas letter from Burger and Nancy Zapf—residents of Brevard, N.C., and friends they had met while visiting Ecuador—and learned that Burger needed a kidney transplant. After thoughtful consideration and initial testing, David made the decision to explore the possibility of becoming Burger’s kidney donor.

“Burger is a long-time friend of ours, and donating a kidney would be life-changing,” David shared.

With Marcie’s support, David underwent extensive testing and was thrilled to learn he was a match. The transplant was scheduled for October at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, and the Lynns began making plans for their time in Winston-Salem. On the recommendation of Colleen Sheehan, Living Donor Senior Transplant Coordinator, they chose the Family House as their home away from home during his recovery.

“The Family House offered us a pleasant and comfortable environment,” said Marcie. “Staying at a hotel would have been more of a challenge, but the Family House felt more like home.”

Having previously stayed at the Family House in the spring for a round of testing, the Lynns were familiar with its amenities. However, it was during their longer stay that they truly experienced the warmth and support of the staff, volunteers, and fellow guests.

“Volunteers served delicious meals that we enjoyed, and Pam (Family House Operations Manager) made us feel welcome every time we walked through the front door,” Marcie recalled.

“Staying at a hotel would have been more of a challenge, but the Family House felt more like home.”

As Marcie focused on caring for David during his 10-day recovery, she found comfort in the conveniences the Family House offered—especially the well-stocked community kitchen.

“I didn’t have to worry about the little details,” she said. “The kitchen made preparing meals easy and stress-free.”

David’s recovery routine included walking several times a day, and the serene Family House campus provided the perfect setting.

“The grounds were beautiful,” Marcie said. “We enjoyed relaxing in the gazebo rocking chairs and walking several miles around the property each day.”

After a successful recovery for both David and Burger, the Lynns returned home with a newfound appreciation for the support they had received. Inspired by their experience, they decided to give back financially to the Family House.

“We are grateful to be in a position to give back and help another family benefit from all the Family House has to offer,” Marcie shared.

David and Marcie’s journey is a testament to the power of friendship, generosity, and the profound impact of a compassionate community.

David and Marcie Lynn (provided by the Lynns)