Gloria Patient Stories

In late September 2024, Emma [not her real name] traveled from Texas to Albuquerque for an abortion but couldn’t afford a hotel stay. Through Gloria, she was connected to an Airbnb offered by a generous host participating in Gloria’s pilot program. From the moment she arrived, it was clear this was more than just a place to sleep. Thoughtful touches, like Pedialyte freezer pops in the freezer and extra toothpaste stocked in the bathroom, made a big difference—especially for Emma, who had been feeling nauseous for days.

The below excerpt from our encrypted Signal thread illustrates how, beyond merely offering a place to sleep, Gloria’s hosts can offer an invaluable depth of human compassion for patients who are in desperate need:

Emma: They took my toothpaste and mouthwash away at the airport today which was pretty unfortunate. Do you know if there is a nearby corner store within walking distance so I can repurchase those items?? Also, thank you so much for the comfort, the peace and quiet, and for the Pedialyte freezer pops. They are perfect for me because I have been extremely nauseous for the past several days. Haven’t been able to keep any food down. Thank you all so very much.

Sidekick: There may be some extra toothbrushes and toothpaste above the bathroom sink in the cupboard! 😊

Emma: I found a travel size tube up top. This will most definitely do. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Sidekick: So glad I can help in the very smallest way.

Emma: I can’t thank you all enough. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time for any reason. Thank you is an understatement!

Emma: Hello and good morning to you, amazing people. I just wanted to reach out once again to say thank you again for the very safe and comfortable 5-star stay. Today is my checkout day. Thank you again for everything. I will never ever forget what you all have done to help me in such a time of need. I will do what I can from this point going forward to continue paying it forward. I have already started paying it forward by replacing all the Pedialyte Freezer Pops that I ate. Lol. There are now 2 brand new boxes in the freezer:)) Thank you all so, so, very much. May good karma continuously find you.

Sidekick: How sweet of you to stock up on Pedialyte for future patients!!!! Thank you kindly! Travel safe today, Emma.

Emma: No problem at all!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! 🤍

In September 2024, Zola (not her real name) traveled from Houston to Albuquerque for an abortion and sought assistance from Gloria for her stay. After her initial inquiry, she learned that an Airbnb wasn’t available, but there were other options, including a private apartment hosted by Alexandra, who was participating in Gloria’s pilot program. Nervous about being alone, Zola chose the apartment but was reassured by Gloria that all hosts undergo thorough background checks and are supporters of a woman’s right to choose.

Upon her arrival, Alexandra greeted Zola at the door to show her how to access the apartment. During their brief interaction, Alexandra offered dinner. Zola inquired about dinner. “I’m making cauliflower shawarma for us, there’s plenty… Does any of that sound good?” Zola responded, “I don’t want to be a bother 😣 but the cauliflower shawarma sounds good.” Later, she took Alexandra up on the offer, going upstairs to make herself a plate.

After enjoying the meal, Zola expressed her gratitude: “It was good… and thank you for your hospitality. Your kids are so sweet and cute.” Alexandra replied warmly, “Aw, thanks, we’re very happy to help. I’m sorry you weren’t able to get the care you needed at home, but it was lovely to meet you.”

The evening was filled with warmth and kindness, transforming what could have been a stressful stay into a memorable experience. This heartfelt exchange exemplifies the power of personal touch that Gloria provides—turning logistical support into genuine care and community during challenging times.