Machiko no Ishi
A California 501(c)(3) Public Benefit Corporation
Mission Statement
ABOUT US
Image is for illustration purpose only
Machiko no Ishi (Machiko’s Legacy) is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation that brings gentle emotional comfort to hospice and palliative care patients through donations of lifelike plush Maltese dog toys.
We give special priority to patients of Japanese and other Asian ancestry in honor of our founder’s heritage and our limited startup resources — while welcoming and serving all patients and families who may find solace in this small, soft companion.
A gentle warmth at the end of life for all.
ABOUT US
Founded in her memory
Machiko no Ishi was established in loving memory of Machiko Chiba who, during her final months in hospice care for pancreatic cancer, found profound comfort cuddling a lifelike plush Maltese stuffie resembling her beloved pet Maltese dog, Max.
Inspired by her experience, we carry forward her legacy of kindness by sharing these gentle companions with others. A small gift of heartfelt comfort.
A 24 hour companion
A gift of warmth and love
Just the right size to cuddle
Our Foundation’s Motto
Patient images are for illustration purposes only.
THE GIFT
Meet Our Plush Maltese “Stuffie”
Our 14” Maltese plush stuffie features soft, luxurious “fur,” sparkling eyes and gentle expression with meticulously airbrushed details resulting in a remarkably lifelike appearance. So soft. Just right for hugging.
What’s Included
🌸 14" Lifelike Maltese plush toy
🌸 14" Lifelike Maltese plush toy
🌸 Blue crafted paper gift bag
🌸 Handwritten gift card with message of hope
🌸 Metal comb for fluffing
🌸 Care instructions
PATIENT BENEFITS
The Gentle Power of Plush
Patient Benefits
🌸️ Comfort to Hold
Something soft to cuddle and keep close
🌸 Unconditional Presence
A universal symbol of love and non-judgmental companionship
🌸 Calms the Body
Helps reduce stress and cortisol
🌸 Eases Fear & Isolation
A steady companion in quiet moments
🌸 Lifts the Spirit
Improves mood and emotional well-being
🌸 Awakens memories
Evokes warmth, familiarity, and comfort
🌸 Supports Peaceful Transition
Helps patients move gently toward rest
Caregiver Benefits
🌸 Sense of Joy Shared
Seeing comfort and joy on their patient/loved one’s face
🌸 Personal Fulfillment
A sense of relief and accomplishment
🌸 Resonance of Empathy
An emotional connection when verbal communication becomes difficult
🌸 Patient Attunement
A way to connect emotionally without words
Inspired by love. Given with care. Because comfort still matters.
Every gift is beautifully packaged
Personal messages from volunteers
Bringing comfort when it matters most
Send Comfort Today
Every $45 donation covers one plush Maltese stuffie for one patient