Those fears were put to rest when they arrived at Ronald McDonald House South Island, in Christchurch, she said.
It was for this reason her family were happy to speak about their experience on the eve of the house's annual appeal today.
The house provides accommodation and meals for families from anywhere in the South Island outside Christchurch who have sick or injured children under the age of 21 and need hospital treatment.
"It's a home away from home, a block from hospital," Ronald McDonald House South Island corporate sponsorship manager Lizzie Dyer said.
For the Kings, it was a refuge away from the hospital where 11-year-old daughter Madie was receiving treatment and continues to be so as she undergoes treatment every second week.
"You'd come home after a long day at hospital ... and sit down and not have to think about preparing a meal."
It had play areas, art rooms and a teacher who visited for the children.
Without the accommodation provided by the house, there would be no way the family could have afforded the initial seven-week stay in Christchurch, she said. She and husband Steve also have a 9-year-old, Sophie.
"It kept us together and helped us enjoy the time away from the hospital in a comforting and safe environment without wondering where the money was coming from."
She was amazed at the generosity of the Christchurch community and businesses, who provided supplies and meals.
"It's just amazing, an eye-opener."
Ms Dyer said a street collection would be held at all major South Island centres and all the funds raised stayed in the South Island.
The house relied solely on community grants, corporate sponsorship and the appeal to keep running, she said.
