Machiko no Ishi
“Machiko’s Legacy”
We provide lifelike plush Maltese dogs as comfort companions, at no cost, to hospice and palliative care patients.
Families, clinicians and healthcare professionals are invited to request a companion for patients in their care.
A California 501(c)(3) Charitable Foundation
Our Mission
ABOUT US
Image is for illustration purpose only
Machiko no Ishi (“Machiko’s Legacy”) provides gentle emotional support to hospice and advanced palliative care patients through lifelike plush Maltese comfort companions, offered at no cost to patients and families.
Founded in memory of Machiko Chiba McLaughlin, whose own hospice experience inspired our mission, we seek to bring warmth, reassurance, and companionship to those facing serious illness and the end of life.
Rooted in Japanese traditions of compassion and nukumori (gentle warmth), we prioritize patients of Japanese and other Asian ancestry while welcoming all who may benefit.
Immediate family members and healthcare professionals may request companions directly for eligible patients.
Machiko no Ishi is a California 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, operated entirely by volunteers and supported through donations.
“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 companion that reminded her of her beloved dog, Max.
Born and raised in Japan, Machiko also inspired the gentle Japanese influence reflected throughout our organization. In her memory, that influence can be seen in our name, our imagery, and the quiet way we care for others.
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 quiet, gentle, 24 hour Companion
A gift of comfort and love across generations
Our Companions are just the right size to cuddle
Nukumori - Warmth of Human Connection
THE GIFT
The Comfort Companion
Our 14” plush Maltese comfort companion 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 plush Maltese comfort companion
🌸 Blue crafted paper gift bag
🌸 Handwritten gift card with message of hope
🌸 Metal comb for fluffing
🌸 Care instructions
PATIENT BENEFITS
The Gentle Power of A Comfort Companion
Research shows comfort companions provide meaningful benefits. (Click to see studies)
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.
An unconditional presence
Personal messages from volunteers
A shared connection
Please Help Us Provide Comfort Companions
Every $45 donation provides one comfort companion for one patient.
Donations of any size bring comfort - if you wish, enter a “custom amount!”