Who We Are
A home that helps and heals since 1984
Our Mission
"The mission of the Gift of Life Transplant House it to provide transplant patients and their caregivers with high quality, affordable accommodations in a supportive, home-like environment."
The Story of Gift of Life
The vision of Ed Pompeian, brought to life through community and compassion.
1973
The Gift of Life
Ed Pompeian received a kidney transplant at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. During his recovery, he experienced firsthand the challenges patients and families face finding affordable, supportive housing close to medical care. This experience planted the seed for a future sanctuary.
1984
OPENING THE FIRST HOUSE
Driven by his vision, Ed Pompeian founded the first Gift of Life Transplant House. It began as a humble operation, offering a welcoming environment where guests could share experiences and find mutual support during their difficult medical journeys.
1994
PURCHASING THE JUDD HOUSE
To meet growing demand, the organization purchased the historic home of Dr. E. Starr Judd, a founding partner of Mayo Clinic. This property, known today as the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home, expanded capacity and rooted the mission deeper into Rochester’s medical history.
2009
OPENING ZARROW HOME
The “Expansion for Life” campaign culminated in the opening of the Anne and Henry Zarrow Home. This modern facility significantly increased the number of guests we could serve, featuring modern amenities and the beautiful Sister Margeen Hoffmann peace garden.
2025
OPENING THE PEDIATRIC TRANSPLANT HOUSE
The original Gift of Life Transplant House, which opened its doors in 1984, began a new chapter with a complete remodel to become the Pediatric Transplant House. Designed specifically for pediatric transplant patients and their families, the home provides a welcoming space where families can stay together, find comfort and support, and focus on healing.
Our Campus Homes
Providing comfort, community, and care across three specialized houses.
Established 1994
The Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home
Originally the home of Dr. E. Starr Judd, an early partner of the Mayo brothers, this classic Georgian colonial home offers historic charm and modern comfort. It features warm woodwork, spacious communal areas, and a legacy of healing that echoes through its halls.
Established 2009
The Anne and Henry Zarrow Home
Born from the “Expansion for Life” initiative, this facility offers contemporary amenities while maintaining a warm, home-like feel. It overlooks the serene Sister Margeen Hoffmann peace garden, providing guests with a tranquil space for reflection and healing outdoors.
Established 2025
Pediatric Transplant House
The Pediatric Transplant House offers warm, family-style living that allows parents and siblings to stay together with the transplant patient, rather than limiting lodging to a single caregiver. Originally the very first Gift of Life Transplant House, which opened in 1984, this home was thoughtfully remodeled to meet the unique needs of pediatric transplant families and officially reopened in August 2025.