The Patriot Magazine Volume 6 Issue 1 by Fisher House Foundation

2015 VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION, INC. TM

www.fisherhouse.org

”You Are Not Fighting this Fight Alone.”

THE MILITARY CAREGIVER (Story featured on page 16)

GUEST FAMILY PROFILE Two-time Korean War Purple Heart Recipient (Story featured on page 4)

FISHER HOUSE CELEBRATES

TEAM FISHER HOUSE "The Patriot Challenge" Virtual Race (Story featured on page 23)

Contents Social Media Support

Trustees Give The Order

Guest FamilyProfile: Col. Joseph Krebs, USA, Ret.

"American Sniper"

A Winning Recipe: Newman's Own

25 Ways to Help Us Serve

A Few Key Events In Fisher House History

Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk or Roll

Music For Fisher House

Fisher House Salutes

Heart Behind the House

Journal Entries

In Memoriam

Cover Story: The Military Caregiver

Designing A Fisher House

Meet the Manager

What I Learned From Fisher House Families

Hero Miles Update

Team Fisher House

House Round-Up

Construction Updates

Community Groups In Action

Down Range

Fisher House Directory

FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN AND CEO Kenneth Fisher PRESIDENT David A. Coker CHIEF OF STAFF Mary Considine EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kerri Childress MANAGING EDITOR Ashley Estill LAYOUT AND ART DIRECTION ds+f www.dsfriends.com

About Fisher House Foundation, Inc. The Fisher House program provides a "home away from home" for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes provide free temporary lodging so military and Veterans’ families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis. Recognizing the special sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform, and their families, Fisher House Foundation helps by meeting a humanitarian need outside the scope offered by the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. This is a unique program, a private-public partnership to support America’s military heroes, both Veterans and active duty service members, in their time of need. Each Fisher House is located on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers in the United States, as well as locations in Europe. Our houses provide a comforting, first-class “home away from home” while loved ones receive care in an unfamiliar environment — all at NO COST to the service member or their families. This special support is very important during the most stressful time — the hospitalization of a loved one. Each Fisher House provides all the comforts of home — a spacious dining, living, laundry and family room, kitchen, and private bedrooms for families to retreat and rejuvenate after a stressful day at the hospital. While the road to recovery is different for every family, one thing remains the same — Fisher House is there to provide comfort and compassion.

Heroes’ Legacy Scholarships, the Hero Miles program, the Hotels for Heroes program, Team Fisher House, and co-sponsor the Newman’s Own Awards program and the Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program. By contributing to Fisher House Foundation or any individual Fisher House facility, you can make a difference in the lives of America’s service members, retirees, Veterans and their families when they need help the most. Fisher House Foundation and individual Fisher Houses depend on public donations to continue our important work. If you designate your contribution for a specific purpose or Fisher House, 100 percent of your donation will be allocated for that purpose. Furthermore, Fisher House Foundation never discloses the names of its donors to any other individuals or organizations without expressed permission, and does not solicit contributions by direct mail or telephone. Once constructed, each Fisher House is given to the US government as a gift. Military service secretaries and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the homes. Fisher House Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, builds new houses, assists in coordinating private support and encourages public support for the homes. Fisher House Foundation has earned the highest rating (four stars) from Charity Navigator, an independent nonprofit evaluator. Fisher House Foundation has also received an A+ rating from the American Institute of Philanthropy. Donations to Fisher House Foundation and/or individual Fisher House facilities are taxdeductible to the maximum extent allowed by law.

The Patriot Fisher House Foundation 111 Rockville Pike Suite 420 Rockville, Maryland 20850

In addition to constructing new houses, Fisher House Foundation continues to support existing Fisher Houses and help individual military families in need. The Foundation is also proud to administer and sponsor Scholarships for Military Children,

Phone: (301) 294-8560 Fax: (301) 294-8562 Email: info@fisherhouse.org

Thank you so much to Don Schaaf & Friends, Inc. in Washington, D.C. for your donated services in designing The Patriot.

www.fisherhouse.org

Cover photo courtesy of Craig Orsini www.orsinistudio.com

Address all correspondence to:

LETTER FROM KEN FISHER Dear Friends, This year we celebrate 25 years of the Fisher House program serving military and Veterans’ families. It all started when my Uncle Zachary wanted to do something that would bless military families. He asked then Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Carl Trost for ideas. It was Admiral Trost’s wife, Pauline, who said that something like a Ronald McDonald house was needed. Zachary and Elizabeth loved the idea. The first two houses were started in 1990. They built the first 25 Fisher Houses using personal funds — which is why the program bears their name. Upon Zachary’s death, Fisher House Foundation assumed responsibility for the construction of the houses. I first became involved with the program in 1999, and I didn’t realize how it would change my life. I learned first-hand of the sacrifices our military families make and have had the privilege of meeting many of our Nation’s heroes. Every family I met inspired me to do more. What was once Zachary and Elizabeth’s passion is now mine and my family’s. Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation

Fisher House Program by the

Numbers

Today, there are 64 Fisher Houses that will help more than 25,000 families this year. I don’t think Zachary and Elizabeth could have imagined that Fisher Houses would become so integral in the delivery of healthcare in the military and VA health systems. Ours is a unique private-public partnership that provides critical resources to meet the needs of military and Veterans’ families. It is a program that began in peacetime, but has proven to be invaluable in war. It is your support that has made the difference and allowed us to meet the expanding needs of our military and Veterans’ families. As we move into the next 25 years, I assure you that I will continue my life’s dedication to serve those we consider to be “our greatest national treasure… our military service men and women, and their loved ones.” I hope you’ll join me. With heartfelt gratitude,

$282 Million Savings for Families in Lodging and Transportation Cost

5.8 Million Days of Lodging Offered

Kenneth Fisher Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation @KenFisherFHF

Over

250 Thousand Families Served

Charity Ratings: A+

Fisher House Foundation works hard to be a good steward of the resources entrusted to us. It is a privilege to do the work we do, and we are proud to hold the highest ratings that can be awarded with the top national charity watchdog organizations.

Fisher Houses in Operation The statistics in this graphic are calculated since Fisher House program inception.

Fisher House Foundation has received an A+ from the American Institute of Philanthropy in their “Veterans and Military” category. Out of 53 charities rated, Fisher House Foundation is one of only three charities to receive their distinctive A+ rating. Charity Navigator awarded the Foundation their coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management for the 11th consecutive year, a rating achieved by less than one percent of the charities in the country that they evaluate. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT FACEBOOK FEEDBACK www.facebook.com/FisherHouse “I just heard on the radio this morning about an organization that provides housing to Veterans and military families while the military member is receiving treatment at VA facilities or military hospitals. The organization is called Fisher House Foundation and you can help by donating frequent flyer miles that you are not using for flights or hotels. They actually have houses on site at some VA facilities where military and/or family members can stay at no charge. This is a great organization. Check it out.” — Pam V. “We have used the Fisher House at Joint Base Andrews. What a blessing it is and a fantastic manager who is totally dedicated to the people using her house.” — Nino M. “I can't wait for the Camp Pendleton Fisher House to open! I want to make dinner already for the families as they did for my family. Thank you for being there for my daughter Grace while my husband was deployed. Now she is big and strong! Merry Christmas.” — Franky V.

TWITTER LOVE www.twitter.com/FisherHouseFdtn Ed Gould @EdGouldMusic @FisherHouseFdtn Thank you for the follow. As a vet, my heartfelt thanks to you for all you do for wounded vets and their families. katie kimble @cupkates30 Sold old cocktail dresses on Ebay to raise $ for @Kappa_Sigma_KSU@2015GMAs for the Greater Cleve Fisher House @FisherHouseFdtn #give EcoMediaCBS @EcoMediaCBS Congratulations to our partner @FisherHouseFdtn on 25 years of serving our Nation's heroes! It's an honor to work with you. #FisherHouse25

“I loved staying at the Fisher House in Pittsburgh, PA while my husband had a knee replacement surgery, everyone was so kind and helpful and enjoyed the other women to fellowship with, Thank you very much for the hospitality, love you all.” — Nora G.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION! Don’t forget to connect with us on Instagram too! Instagram.com/FisherHouseFdtn and share your story with us using the hashtag #FisherHouse!

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

TRUSTEES GIVE THE ORDER: "Man our ship and bring her to life" Story by Kerri Childress

Lynne Pace speaking at Chairman’s Reception.

Mary Jo Myers commissions the USS Sommerset.

LYNNE PACE

The Navy commissioned its newest amphibious assault ship, during the September 11 terrorist attacks. The commissioning USS America (LHA 6), and there to sponsor the ship was Fisher was the culmination of a week-long celebration in Philadelphia House Foundation trustee, Lynne Pace. Wife of retired Marine honoring the ship. It is currently stationed in San Diego. Corps Gen. Peter Pace, 16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, “[Flight 93 passengers and crew members] exemplified such Lynne was honored to give the order, “man our ship and bring courage and bravery that day as they sacrificed themselves to her to to life.” protect others and to rally our nation. They were indeed the first warriors in this war on terrorism,” said Mary Jo. Homeported in San Diego, “Today we come together as families, but mostly as Americans the USS America is the to celebrate and witness this momentous occasion and wish the first ship of its class, USS Somerset and her crew Godspeed.” Following those brief replacing the Tarawa class remarks, Mary Jo gave the command to “man our ship and of amphibious assault ships. bring her to life!” As the next generation "bigdeck" amphibious ships, LHA 6 is optimized for aviation and will be capable of supporting current and future aircraft. Described by Lynne as a “sort of mini-aircraft carrier,” the ship was launched in San Francisco on Oct. 11, 2014. MARY JO MYERS

Another Fisher House Foundation trustee, Mary Jo Myers, is the sponsor of the USS Somerset (LPD 25) and spoke at the commissioning on March 1, 2014, in Philadelphia. The Associate Director of Public Affairs at Hayes and Associates, Mary Jo is the wife of Retired Air Force General Richard Myers, 15th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Each ship has a Coat of Arms. The USS America’s (LHA 6) crest features dark blue and gold colors, traditionally associated with the Navy, representing the sea and excellence, while the red conveys patriotism.

The USS Somerset is named in honor of the passengers of United Airlines Flight 93, which went down in Pennsylvania THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

GUEST FAMILY PROFILE Story and Photos by Kerri Childress

NAME: JOSEPH KREBS HOUSE: WASHINGTON, D.C. VA MEDICAL CENTER

Col. Joseph Krebs, USA, Ret.

“I don’t know what I would do without the Fisher House. I either wouldn’t be able to come, or we would have to stay in an expensive hotel for six months, I guess. Fact is, this old Korean Vet just doesn't have that kind of money.”

HOME: CHIANG MAI, THAILAND MILITARY BRANCH: MARINE CORPS AND ARMY RESERVE

Joseph Krebs, a two-time Korean War Purple Heart recipient, makes no secret of his appreciation for the service to Veterans and their families memorialized by the bronze bust of Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher in the Washington, D.C. Fisher House. “Every morning, when I pass their statue, I not only salute, I thank them for their amazing generosity. Just don’t know what I would do without the Fisher House,” said Joseph. Joseph, who lives in Chiang Mai, Thailand, travels to the District’s VA hospital for treatment for a blood disorder that lasts anywhere from 5-6 months. With him is his caretaker, Dr. Kriangsak Pukawan, who has been with Krebs for 20 years. “I come all the way to the VA here because I know all my doctors. It’s just superb care, that’s why I come. But I don’t know what I would do without a Fisher House. I either wouldn’t be able to come, or we would have to stay in an expensive hotel for six months, I guess. Fact is, this old Korean Vet just doesn’t have that kind of money,” said Joseph. Joseph, 82, was the youngest staff sergeant in the Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Joseph Krebs and his daughter Mary Devine, who is a Gulf War Veteran herself, celebrating “A Day of Service” in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Framed Photo on the right: Joseph Krebs, his daughter Mary Devine with VA Secretary, Robert McDonald.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

“Every morning, when I pass their statue, I not only salute, I thank them for their amazing generosity.”

He later joined the Army Reserve and retired as a colonel. His two daughters, Mary Devine and Julia Krebs are also military Veterans. His son William is an IT specialist. “I’m very proud of my military service, and getting VA care is one of the best benefits. I’m lucky, my blood disorder is not terminal,” said Joseph, who expects to check out of Fisher House at the end of January after a 6-month stay, but he knows others will leave without their loved ones. “I’ve known Veterans who have passed away, and their relatives were at the Fisher House,” he recalled. “I gave one of the relatives a hug. I assured her that her husband was at peace. I share my problems with some folks but not to any depth. I don’t want to invade others’ privacy and pry into their personal hardships. Don’t get me wrong though, I have made some lifelong friends at Fisher House.” There are lots of fun times, too, Joseph said. On January 19, 2015, he got to meet VA Secretary Robert McDonald, along with National Security Advisor Susan Rice, during “A Day of Service” in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The group prepared lunch for Krebs and other Veterans and their families. One of the highlights of the event was the prayer led by Joseph. He thanked the hospital for his care, he thanked his family and the others there that day, and he thanked Fisher House. The prayer ended with a rousing rendition of God Bless America — led by Joseph Krebs, of course.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

“AMERICAN SNIPER” HITS HOME

Photo Above: Marine Corps Veteran Jake Schick takes shooting instructions from Bradley Cooper, playing Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, in the hit movie “American Sniper.”

Story by Kerri Childress Photos Courtesy of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

The box office hit, “American Sniper,” might well be the country’s most poignant portrayal of the war in Iraq. Yet, what really hits home for Fisher House Foundation is what happens to these men and women when they return home. To understand that, we reached out to Marine Corps Corporal Jake Schick, who not only is in the movie, but recently shared that he probably would not even be here today were it not for his family and friends being by his side after coming home. That, he says, would never have happened without Fisher House Foundation. “I seriously don’t know what I would have done without Fisher House and its programs,” said Jake. Jake’s vehicle hit a triple-stacked tank mine in Dulab, Iraq, sending his body 30 feet in the air; he lost his right leg below the knee and sustained compound fractures in his left leg. Part of his left arm and hand were gone. He broke every one of his ribs. “Needless to say, I spent months and months in arduous rehab. Throughout it all, I was never alone. Fisher House put up my family, fiancée and friends,” said Jake. “I have a large family and for them to be able to come see me, and not have to pay for a hotel is huge.” Working on the set of “American Sniper,” directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Bradley Cooper as Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, was an experience that Jake will never forget. “I can relate to the entire movie — especially what it is like to return home after combat with both physical and mental wounds,” emphasized Jake. 6

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Chris Kyle was sent to Iraq with only one mission: to protect his brothers-in-arms. His biggest regret was that he couldn’t save them all. Jake agrees that much of war is about the camaraderie; the brotherhood and bonding that develops in these horrific conditions. And in the end, it was working with other war Veterans that helped both Chris and Jake heal after they returned home. Today, Jake works at the Brain Performance Institute at the Center for BrainHealth, in Dallas. “I can approach other Veterans and they will listen to me. I can say, ‘hey, I’ve been there and it’s okay to seek help,’ ” explained Jake. “One Navy Veteran we worked with said, ‘I walked through their doors broken, looking for a compass that would give me a sense of direction. I received more than a compass; they gave me a road map to success.’ This is what I am all about today.” “American Sniper” has certainly provided a glimpse of what men and women endure in combat — and when they return home. Hopefully, for the vast majority of viewers who have never served in the military, it will create “empathy — not sympathy — for these warriors and their families,” said Jake. “There were many people who contributed to my healing — both physical and mental,” stressed Jake. “But I can tell you this, without Fisher House, I wouldn’t be talking to you today.”

A Winning Recipe: F

Story by Ashley Estill

from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, whose program empowers Veterans facing transitional or addiction challenges to once again become productive members of society.

or 15 years, military volunteer groups and non-profit organizations around the country have been celebrated for their innovative programs to improve military quality of life, through the Newman’s Own Awards. The annual program recognizes a diverse group of organizations who find unique solutions to help service members, Veterans and their families, by awarding them a grant to support their program. In 2014, five military care initiatives were awarded a total of $200,000 in a ceremony at the Pentagon. The overall winning entry was “Operation Warm Embrace,”

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The Newman’s Own Awards would not be possible each year without our partners, Newman’s Own, Inc. and Military Times, who sponsor the competition with the Foundation. Newman's Own Foundation continues Paul Newman's commitment to donate all profits to charity. Over $400 million has been given to thousands of charities since 1982.

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As Hawaiian music plays in the background of the kitchen, Chef Wes explains that he cooks with a Pacific-Asian influence in many of his dishes, although he’s flexible when it comes time to preparing a menu. He often lets the guests or the event dictate the tone for the menu, but he finds enjoyment in preparing anything.

In support of the Newman’s Own Awards, Navy Senior Chief Wes Tavares has created a few recipes using Newman’s Own products. Here we share one of our favorite dishes, created by Chef Wes, and some insights into why he became a chef, where he finds inspiration, and some advice for families cooking in a Fisher House kitchen.

“I like to cook, serve and see the smiles of gratitude on my guests’ faces,” said Wes.

Hailing from Kea’au, Hawaii, Wes Tavares, took food service classes in high school which helped shape the path he would take in life. He joined the Navy after high school to travel the world and became a chef without any formal training. It was all “hands on” learning as Wes continued to master his trade.

Chef Wes advises Fisher House families to create something simple with flavors you enjoy. “Don’t over think it,” he says. “The best meals are simple and easy. Who has time to do a lot of work? Know what flavors you like and go with that. You can do the same thing over, but change one thing from the night before. Simple and fresh.” THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

25 Ways to Help Us Serve To help us serve, visit www.fisherhouse.org

Share Fisher House’s 25th Anniversary logo via social media and tag us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest.

Volunteer at a local Fisher House.

Donate hotel points for Hotels for Heroes.

Donate frequent flier miles for Hero Miles.

onate a used vehicle, proceeds to benefit D Fisher House.

Host a golf tournament, motorcycle ride, dinner or other event to benefit Fisher House Foundation.

ake the Fisher House logo your profile picture M for the day!

Have you stayed in a Fisher House? Send your story to info@fisherhouse.org or share online with the hashtag #fisherhouse or #fisherhouse25

S ign up for the The Patriot magazine or the e-Patriot newsletter to stay informed about Fisher House.

Celebrate the 25th Anniversary by sponsoring a dinner or lunch at a Fisher House (contract your local house to organize).

11 13

Participate in an athletic event for Team Fisher House.

Invite 25 friends to “follow” or “like” Fisher House @FisherHouseFdtn | facebook.com/fisherhouse

wn a business? Donate a percentage of proceeds to O Fisher House or offer a military & Veterans’ discount.

Share a Fisher House infographic on social media.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Post a photo to social media of yourself volunteering for Fisher House and tag us with the hashtag #fisherhouse25

S upport Fisher House through the Combined Federal Campaign: CFC #11453

Make a $25 gift in honor of a loved one or special event.

eave a bequest to Fisher House Foundation in L your will.

Write a letter to your local newspaper about the work of Fisher House and the needs of injured, ill, and wounded service members and Veterans.

Check with your local Fisher House for a wishlist or to see if the families need personal care items.

Participate in your employer’s matching gift or payroll deduction program for Fisher House Foundation.

Are you a volunteer for Fisher House? Share why volunteering with military families is important to you at info@fisherhouse.org or hashtag #fisherhouse25

Volunteer at a military or Veterans’ hospital.

articipate in community activities that honor P military members.

Request a Fisher House magnet for your car at info@fisherhouse.org.

Special thanks to those who have already made contributions to our anniversary campaign.

Visit www.fisherhouse.org and see how you can play a part in celebrating

A Few Key Events in Fisher House History 1990

C onstruction begins on Fisher Houses at National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda & Walter Reed Army Medical Center

1991

First Fisher House is dedicated at National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda on June 24

1994

First VA Fisher House opens at Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY

1997

There are 25 Fisher Houses, and the program offers its 500,000th night of lodging

1999

Zachary Fisher passes, and his legacy is continued by the Fisher family

2000

2001

isher House and Newman’s Own create a grant program recognizing volunteer organizations supporting F military families, and the Fisher House program offers its 1 millionth night of lodging

Fisher House Foundation begins the Scholarships for Military Children program

2003

2004

The Hero Miles program begins to provide transportation for families of wounded, injured,

2006 2010

Ken Fisher becomes the Chairman & CEO of Fisher House Foundation

and ill service members

Team Fisher House, the online fundraising community of Fisher House, participates in its first

military race

e Heroes’ Legacy Scholarship program is founded to serve the children of fallen/disabled service Th members since 9/11, and the 50th Fisher House opens

2012

The Hotels for Heroes program begins using donated hotel reward points to provide lodging for

2013

Fisher Houses offers the 5 millionth night of lodging

2014

The Hero Miles program books the 50,000th ticket

families when a Fisher House is full

Then & Now 2015

Fisher House celebrates 25 years of serving military and Veterans’ families

Then & Now

Then: Zachary Fisher, a bricklayer by trade, always liked to put the last bricks into each home he dedicated.

Now: Ken Fisher, Zachary’s grandnephew, is now the Foundation’s Chairman and CEO, and continues his Uncle Zach’s mission.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Fisher House Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk or Roll

Story by Ashley Estill

Theresa Johnson started the Fisher House Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk or Roll in 2012, in honor of a family friend who was killed in action. But instead of honoring just one, she knew that she had to honor every service member who lost their life after September 11th. The Remembrance Run originated in Honolulu, Hawaii, where Theresa was the Fisher House manager at Tripler Army Medical Center. Instead of doing a typical run, Theresa knew this one had to be different and special. “I wanted to do something to raise awareness for Fisher House and to honor the service and remember the sacrifice,” Theresa said. For this inaugural run, Theresa collected a service boot for each person who lost their life. That year she had over 6,400 boots line the race route, each with a photo and name of someone who made the ultimate sacrifice. Theresa, who is a military wife and mom, spearheaded the race that now takes place at Fort Campbell, Fort Hood and Fort Bragg in addition to Tripler. The all-volunteer event raises awareness only, no funds. It’s meant to serve as a way to honor those we have lost. After the race is over, the boots

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

remain out for thousands to come by and search for their friend or family member and take photos. “It ended up becoming a healing display,” Theresa said. “People or families came and would spend day after day coming back and looking for everybody they knew.” Over 7,000 boots now line the race route. Each base’s race varies in length, but remains a short distance so everyone who wishes to participate can see all the boots, which are displayed from the start to finish line. “I wanted to do something unique and not just a run, but bring back the names, because we continue to lose so many more.” Theresa Johnson is now the Fisher House manager at Fort Hood and continues to help establish the Remembrance Run for those wishing to participate. Tripler’s Remembrance Run will take place on September 5th, and the Fort Hood run will take place on October 31.th

Meet the Staff

MUSIC FOR FISHER HOUSE Throughout the year, Fisher House Foundation receives tremendous support. Be it volunteers, donors, or fundraisers, there is no shortage of creativity when it comes time to supporting military families. Brian Tarquin, a Veteran and multi-Emmy Award winning producer and composer, released a CD, titled, “Guitars for Wounded Warriors.” This album features some iconic guitarists like Steve Morse, Billy Sheehan, Reb Beach from Whitesnake, Bumblefoot from Guns N’ Roses, Chris Poland from Megadeth, Gary Hoey, Hal Lindes from Dire Straits, Alex De Rosso from Dokken and Chuck Loeb. While the album serves as a tribute to our military men and women, Brian also wants to give back. About half of the royalties from the album will be donated to the Foundation. Additionally, the Murfreesboro Fisher House, just outside of Nashville, recently was presented a special guitar signed by Garth Brooks, Florida Georgia Line, Trisha Yearwood, Ricky Skaggs, Eli Young Band, Sara Evans and many more of country music's finest. Joined by Fisher House president Dave Coker, Sharla McCoy presented the guitar to Fisher House manager Becky Wood. “It was an honor to spend time with you at the Fisher House,” said Sharla McCoy, who works with Fisher House Foundation on two country radio specials each year. “My dream is to place a guitar like this into every Fisher House across the U.S. of A. Music is therapy and can be a super aid in the healing process. Hats off to our soldiers and their families for all they do for us and for all of their personal sacrifice.”

Photos Courtesy of Stokes Nielson

Fisher House Foundation is comprised of many passionate and talented people. Each issue you’ll meet someone new who helps contribute to our mission of supporting our military and their families.

Vicki Reeping Deputy for Community relations “In college, if you told me that at 29 I would be working for Fisher House Foundation full-time, I would not have believed you. I was on the path to be a speech pathologist, working with kids to help them pursue their speech and language goals — that was the plan. Fast forward about nine years and I cannot imagine working anywhere other than Fisher House. My journey here began in 2006 when I was offered a parttime position; I had never even heard of Fisher House. After graduating from college, I accepted a full-time position. My role within the Foundation has been ever-changing. Currently, I am the Newman’s Own Awards grant coordinator, a member of our special events team, and transitioning as the new Fisher House managers’ liaison. However, one of my most treasured duties is becoming Champ the Cow for the Army Ten-Miler and Marine Corps Marathon Kids Fun Run! Nothing beats the feeling of cheering on those who have worked so hard to train and raise funds and awareness for Fisher House. They are our champions! It has been such a privilege to grow with this amazing organization. From our mission to the amazing people I get to work with every day, I consider myself extremely blessed.” – Vicki Reeping THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

FISHER HOUSE SALUTES

Military service members and their families are supported by countless organizations who acknowledge their sacrifices. Here we’ll feature a top-tier organization each issue.

WE SALUTE: SEMPER FI FUND Semper Fi Fund, and its program America’s Fund, provide financial assistance and lifetime support to post-9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. Created by a group of Marine Corps spouses over a decade ago, Semper Fi Fund has issued more than $102 million in assistance to over 13,300 families. They provide support through their programs: family support, caregiver support, adaptive housing, adaptive transportation, specialized equipment, education and career transitioning, rehabilitative sports programs, and others. Providing financial assistance alleviates the burden for service members and their families in their time of need, and for a lifetime. Karen Guenther (pictured below), a recent recipient of the Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Humanitarian Award, is the founder, CEO and President of Semper Fi Fund. For more information about Semper Fi Fund and who they help, visit www.semperfifund.org.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Heart Behind the House This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Fisher House program. To help celebrate such a milestone, throughout the year we will feature 25 stories of people who have helped build, support or benefited from the Fisher House program. Called Heart Behind the House, we hope to give you a better understanding of the diverse group of people who surround Fisher House. You’ll read about Dr. Dennis Hollins (pictured left), the Chief of Rehabilitation Medicine at the Charlie Norwood VA in Augusta, Georgia, who sees the benefits each day that Fisher House provides to his recovering patients. You will hear from Carl Zarrello, the architect behind the Fisher House design and the late Tony Garczynski, one of the builders who brought these blueprints to life. We will also feature those who have benefited from our homes and from our hero programs. Visit www.fisherhouse.org throughout the year to read these stories.

FH MUSIC EVENT

Fisher House Sculpture Trivia Photo courtesy of Khim Higgins Photography

The grand opening of the Rock and Brews restaurant in Oviedo, Florida, included a special lunch for over 140 Veterans, a donation for the future Fisher House Orlando, and a congratulations presentation to KISS band members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley for their support of Veterans and Fisher House Foundation.

At every Fisher House, families are welcomed by a bust of our founders, Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, in the foyer. What you may not know is that Felix de Weldon, who also created the iconic Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima), sculpted the statue of Zachary and Elizabeth.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Dear Diary, Entries from Fisher House Guests suite are Within each Fisher House guest ing stories of tain con ies entr journals filled with or just a simple a loved one, encouraging words, by the next read thank you. These words will be to find them for , room family staying in that of these few a re sha we e, Her e. peace and hop . words, written by our families was to step into our You cannot know what a joy it away from home... beautiful Fisher House…home had been rather on Thursday evening. Our day . When I got my hug, intense and we were pooped comfy bed, I knew saw that lovely room and the have been more we'd be fine. Our stay could not enjoyed hugs from comfortable. Before we left we everyone at the the housekeepers (It's amazing art of the Healing Fisher House has learned the our thanks. Hug quite well!) Please accept

Filled with gratitude from our hearts to you all.

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appreciation to the A few words of gratitude and els that run this Travis Fisher House and the ang families of our warm and inviting home for the been fighting a fierce Armed Services. My father has his life. The constant battle for the last six years of e and the hospital back and forth from their hom and father than was put more stress on my mother se opened the door needed. The Travis Fisher Hou ity to assist more with lots of love and generos f have all become than they needed to do. The staf hope that I can help members of our family, and I in the same way that our soldiers and their families ed my family. the Travis Fisher House has help

God Bless this house and its angels.

s and have enjoyed every We have been here for 14 day e really enjoyed the minute of our time here. We hav Our lives have been so hospitality of the whole staff. are going through, but the stressed from everything we e that has made us feel Fisher House is a wonderful plac secure and welcome.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

In Memoriam Remembering Pauline Trost By Jim Weiskopf The Fisher House program lost a dear friend in December when Pauline Trost, wife of former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Carlisle A. H. Trost, passed away following an illness. She was 84. While the late Zachary Fisher, with his wife Elizabeth, are recognized as the founders of the Fisher House program, the idea for the program was presented to Zachary by Pauline in early 1990.

recently, they attended the 20th anniversary dinner for Fisher House managers in 2010.

In her memoir, Pauline recalls Zachary saying, “I am a builder. I have my own architect, we can do this.” Construction on two houses — at the then Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, and Walter Reed Army Medical Center — began in 1990, and the two houses were dedicated and opened in 1991.

It all began because a Navy wife worried how a young sailor, with a wife and two children could afford to stay together while receiving care at a Navy hospital far from their duty station.

Pauline and Carlisle Trost continued to be active supporters of the program after Admiral Trost’s retirement from the Navy, and most

We thank you, Pauline, and we offer our gratitude to you and your family. We are grateful for the continued involvement of the Trost family. Pauline’s granddaughter Haley Trost, continues to support the Fisher House mission.

Fisher House Loses Friend and Builder Tony Garczynski By Kerri Childress Tony Garczynski was a Fisher House building contractor for more than 23 years. Tony passed away in his sleep, leaving the Foundation shocked, saddened, and with one less friend. Tony’s first house he worked on was at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego. “Little did I know, that would be the beginning of a very special relationship that has lasted more than two decades,” said Tony in a recent story for the Hearts Behind the House series. “The Balboa house led to building these beautiful homes on the East Coast, the West Coast, in the Midwest, Utah and

Texas. Currently, we are working on our 18th Fisher House at Camp Pendleton, our second project at that facility.” No one understands Tony’s passion for Fisher House better than his wife Patty, who also worked with him at Tony Garczynski Development, Inc. Patty said, “He so loved building the Fisher Houses — it gave him great joy to be part of such a wonderful program. If not for the Fisher Houses, he probably would have retired years ago.” We are so glad that Tony was part of our Fisher House family. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

COVER STORY

THE MILITARY CAREGIVER

“You are Not Fighting this Only 2.5 million Americans, less than a single percent of our population, served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Nine out of 10 Americans do not have a direct connection to more than a decade of war. However, those that have, often through multiple tours of duty and long deployments, carry burdens many of us couldn’t imagine. One of those people, Army Sergeant Anson Curry, served 15 months in Iraq and a second combat tour in Afghanistan as an infantry soldier. On August 5, 2011, a grenade exploded in his bunker. The 25-year-old sergeant was severely and permanently brain injured. But Anson did not have to deal with his injury alone. His wife Minie was by his side throughout the following years of grueling rehabilitation. Anson and Minie were in a new war, fighting one small battle at a time. “It's for better or for worse and I told him you are not fighting this fight alone. This is our fight,” said Minie. “I keep telling him it’s not your battle, it’s our battle.” What follows is Minie’s story — a story of one woman’s undying devotion to 16

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her husband and her three children, two Afghanistan won’t end for them as the combat of whom have special needs. It’s a story mission comes to an end. The war, for them, everyone needs to read to better understand has a direct impact for the rest of their lives… what families like the Curry’s have gone and so should our care for them.” through and will continue to go through for decades to come, a little recognized war Scott was referring to programs like Fisher fought right here on our own soil every day. House, where Minie and other members of the Curry family lived for more than nine REHABILITATION AT PALO ALTO’S months while Anson was receiving acute and VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND rehabilitative care for his brain injury. FISHER HOUSE “I told God that if he let Anson live, that I Following time at the Kandahar field would be there to take care of him. So I owe hospital, a brief stay at Landstuhl, Germany, God. And I thank God every day,” said Minie. and numerous surgeries at Walter Reed “But as determined as I was to be there for National Military Medical Center at Bethesda, Anson, I just don’t know how I would have Maryland, where he was on life support done that without the Fisher House. I would for the first 5 ½ weeks; Anson and Minie have let both Anson and God down. I am so were sent to the VA Polytrauma Center in thankful for my beautiful home at Palo Alto. Palo Alto, California, for the “Emerging So thankful for Fisher House.” Consciousness” program where he underwent Minie was not the only family member to medical stabilization. stay at Fisher House. To give her brief respite, “That grenade in Afghanistan not only forever Fisher House flew family members, through changed the course of Anson’s life…but also its Hero Miles program, to Palo Alto to be Minie’s,” said Scott Skiles, chief of social work with Anson. One of them was Anson’s brother, services on the VA Polytrauma Unit at Palo Christian Curry. Alto. “Our nation’s commitment to Anson also has to extend to Minie, who has and “Even when Anson was at his very worst, will care for him over the years. The war in Minie never gave up,” said Christian, who

Photo by Curt Campbell, VA Palo Alto, CA

Fight Alone”

Story by Kerri Childress Photos by Craig Orsini

To Minie, it’s Anson who gives her strength and inspires her. To demonstrate how committed she is to Anson and her family, Minie asked a special friend, a pastor from California, to come and perform a renewal ceremony of their vows. All three children — and the dog — were there, along with men from Anson’s unit and many other friends and family.

also stayed at Fisher House with his partner. “I believe that every step Anson has taken was because Minie was there to encourage and love him. Without a Fisher House, that never would have happened. I really don’t know where Anson would be today, quite frankly, if Minie had not been staying right across the street.”

By early evening it’s time for more meds and getting ready for bed. But it doesn’t end there. Every two hours throughout the night Minie has to rotate Anson to avoid skin breakdown and bed sores.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CAREGIVER

Then it starts all over the next morning.

Fast forward to four years later — the Curry family now lives in San Antonio, and Minie cares for 90 percent of Anson’s needs along with taking care of her children.

“There have been many struggles and challenges. I won’t lie. But there have also been the small pleasures of life that make it worth the fight. While it may seem And the ceremony began. repetitious to others, it is not to me because all Anson has to do is smile when I enter “So Anson, do you take Minie to be the room and all the work, all the effort, all your bride?” A quick left hand reaches into the sacrifice is worth it,” said Minie, her eyes the air. suddenly watering. Watching them together “And Minie, do you take Anson to be your says it all. husband, in good times and bad and in “Anson, you really look hot in that sweater sickness and in health?” today,” Minie says, reaching over to give him a kiss and whisper something in his ear that “I do.” not only brings a huge smile but moves him to raise his left hand — his way of saying No one ever meant it more. “Yes, you bet!”

She starts the day — every day — at 6 am, when she gives Anson his medicines — 19 in all. At 7 am she sets up his feeding pump that will feed him continuously until 1 pm. At 8 am, more meds. By 9 am she is taking care of Anson’s oral care and bathes him. He’s in his wheelchair around 11 am, when she will take him to doctor appointments, community outings, or walks around the neighborhood. On Sunday, there is church. More meds at noon, 2pm, 6pm and 8pm. A couple of days a week a physical

therapist comes in to work with Anson in the afternoon.

“Minie is one of the strongest women I know,” said Brad Greiner, Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Church, Escondido, California, who eagerly accepted the invitation to renew Minie and Anson’s vows. “She has defined what love is. Love is not a feeling, it’s an action. Minie epitomizes the very essence of love.”

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Designing a Fis Interview with Carl Zarrello Story by Ashley Estill

“It became so popular that almost all the next houses were built with that plan,” he continued. “In addition, we developed a 12-bedroom house, so the 12-suite and 21-suite designs became the standards.” The evolution of the Fisher House not only includes various design sizes, but also differentiates based on the region the home is located. “The Charleston Fisher House, because of the setting, which is in the historic district, has been altered,” Carl said. “It’s a 16-bedroom house, but the plan has been altered and the elevations modified to better reflect the setting. It’s unusual from that point of view, but the functional arrangement is the same.” For over 10 years, Carl Zarrello has been the architect behind Fisher House’s ever evolving design. His passion for design has only been amplified during his tenure with the Foundation and he brings something incredibly special to these homes. Photo Above: Carl standing in front of construction at Camp Pendleton.

“That was the beginning.” In 2002, Arnold and Ken Fisher, who already had a relationship with Carl, asked him to get involved with the Foundation. The original architect, David Haines, had passed away, and they were looking for someone to continue his work. The first two homes Carl designed were Tripler II and Walter Reed Army Medical Center III. According to Carl, “The homes evolved from there. That was the beginning.”

Perfecting the Fisher House model When Carl began working for the Foundation, he was handed the 11-bedroom design, which was the basic model Fisher House used at the time. He made some changes for Tripler and Walter Reed, the first homes Carl worked on, but fundamentally the design was it…for the moment. “The design needed to evolve and the next evolution of the house was the 21-bedroom design,” said Carl. “It gave us the equivalent of two 11-bedroom houses in terms of occupancy, and that was completely new.”

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Another example of the Fisher House design progression is the future Fisher House in Las Vegas. “Because that house literally sits by itself in the desert, the porches are in a different location and the home has a stone and stucco façade,” he said. “Basically we try to make the houses respond to the setting by not developing a 100 percent new design, but by simply modifying the house,” Carl continued. “Also, at the beginning of this process, we tried to keep the houses in a recognizable form so that no matter where people saw a Fisher House, they would recognize it. We created a brand. We’re less conscious of doing that these days because Fisher House has such a broad appeal.”

Unique Features The Alaska Fisher House was a first for Carl — he had never done a house located in an extreme climate. Fortunately for him, he was introduced to Neeser Construction Company, who helped Carl navigate and develop the right technology for the Anchorage home. This included a special ventilation system for the attic space. “Here’s a little known fact about Anchorage,” Carl began. “Even though it’s below zero, they get condensation in the attic. Because of the humidity in the air, the condensation freezes on the structural members so we developed a special exhaust system to remedy that.”

her House The other issue that needed resolving was the snow removal process. “When I realized what the snow fall was up there, I developed a snow melting system,” he said. “Originally the heated sidewalks would only be from the parking lot to the home, but then we realized the house would be buried. We extended that system from a design point of view to include all the paving around the house, porches — everything.”

A Special Home In addition to interesting features some of the homes boast, there was one special home in particular Carl worked on — the Fisher House at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. This home’s purpose was to provide refuge for those families meeting their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. “The development is very different than the rest of the Fisher Houses,” he began. “Right down to the color scheme inside the house — it’s much quieter.”

The functionality is the same, but it was a whole different approach. Carl added a meditation pavilion and cloistered, protected gardens. Also integrated was an unusual fence made up of stone pile-ons to maintain the privacy of the home.

A Dynamic Process From blueprints to ribbon cutting, it takes a little over a year to see a Fisher House open. It takes Carl nearly three months to develop the design and drawings. From there it could be anywhere from nine to 11 months before the doors open. From start to finish, an incredible number of people make Fisher House a reality. Carl also credits the Foundation’s interior designer, Beverly Archer-Miears, with making the house a home. “Beverly takes the basic architectural envelope, which I do, and creates the final environment. It’s a very important component of the design process because beyond the exterior of the house, which is formidable, when you step in, the feeling is just like home.”

The Fisher House Mission Carl relates his work with Fisher House to a special opportunity that most people never get a chance to contribute to. ALASKA SOUTH CAROLINA Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Photo courtesy of Ken Graham Photography

NEVADA VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System

“This is something special you see on the news, but you never get a chance to directly participate in something like this. From the first day they called me in, that was the first thing that occurred to me. That’s the most compelling part of this for me. I’m so lucky I can’t even tell you. To have a work environment I have doing the work we do — it’s tremendous.”

FLORIDA Miami VA Healthcare System

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Meet the Manager Fisher House Foundation is privileged to have amazing leadership at each Fisher House location. Our managers do a wonderful job of taking care of the families that call Fisher House a home away from home. This issue, meet Sharon Hudson.

Sharon Hudson joins residents at the LA Fisher House to make books created from paper bags. From left to right: Ruth Hanson, resident; Joyce Gordon, resident; David Gordon, resident; Joyce Davis, volunteer Activities Director; Deborah Gore, resident; Sharon Hudson, Fisher House Manager; Sarah Worthen, resident; Joshua Wothen, resident; Gayle Kusatsu, volunteer Arts & Crafts teacher.

Sharon Hudson, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System When Sharon Hudson became familiar with the Fisher House mission, she was so inspired that she jumped at the opportunity to become Fisher House manager in West Los Angeles, nearly seven years ago. Serving Veterans at the Fisher House has taught her some very important lessons. “Truly, this job has given me a new vision of the important things in life,” Sharon said. “You’ve heard the saying, ‘don’t sweat the small stuff,’ well, I’ve come to realize that if it doesn’t concern health issues or family or close friends; then it can probably fit in the category of small stuff. There isn’t a day that goes by that one or more families staying here doesn’t make me realize how blessed we all are.” Sharon comes from a family of Veterans — her dad, her husband, her brother — it was this personal connection to the military that helped her better understand the sacrifices our service members make on behalf of the American people. “That’s the magic of Fisher Houses. People stay here and bond with other families as they experience similar challenges. Many may develop life-long friends, whom they stay in contact with for decades,” Sharon said. “It’s such a relief for them to know they are not alone.” The West Los Angeles Fisher House served 952 families during 2014. “Since we opened our doors, six years ago, we have served more than 4,300 families, saving them an estimated $3.8 million in hotel expenses alone,” Sharon said. “Additionally, through the generosity of our donors, families have also saved in food, laundry, fuel costs, and miscellaneous expenses. That makes me very proud.” Sharon is quick to say this is the most rewarding job she has ever had, and credits this to Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher. “Their vision, their generosity, will never be forgotten. Our 25th Anniversary year gives us the chance to remember and say thank you, and I hope people always appreciate the great gift our Veterans have given this nation.” We thank Sharon for being just one of our thoughtful and dedicated managers! 20

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What I learned From Fisher House Families Fisher House managers at our 64 homes help families every day. We could not enjoy the reputation we have without the contribution of our managers. As they care for their special families, there are lessons that they learn themselves: It’s a give and take that enriches all lives. The Patriot would like to share some of the lessons our Fisher House managers have learned. Gratitude changes everything. One of the guests enclosed this in a thank you note and family members often recount moments of gratitude, such as, “he sat up today,” or “she was able to take sips of water,” or “he could move his foot today” and “the doctor said we can go home!” I learned to notice things to be grateful for in my own life, every day. — Elizabeth St.Pierre, VA Boston Fisher House Family includes more people than who you share a bloodline with. — Jenny Hall, Alaska Fisher House I have learned how you can say goodbye to a loved one with courage and dignity. — Rebecca Wood, Tennessee Fisher House I have learned the true meaning of putting others before yourself. — Janet Grampp, Joint Base Andrews Fisher House I have learned that “family” is a powerful force that can accomplish great feats even during the darkest of times. — Michael Fitzpatrick, Stratton VA Fisher House, NY Hugs can express feelings when words fail. — Anne Arnold, Augusta VA Fisher House, GA People are extremely caring. We had a guest staying at our house by herself in support of her father. He unexpectedly passed, and none of her family was able to come for the services. All of the Travis Fisher House guest families attended the services for her father, and then they held a reception afterward and spent time with her letting her share precious memories of her father with them. — Charlene Hall, Travis AFB Fisher House, CA A child’s laughter carries throughout our house and can lighten even the roughest of days for our guests. — Heather Frantz, VA Pittsburgh Fisher House Love your family. They’re for always. No matter how bad things are for you, there is ALWAYS someone dealing with something far worse. — Christine Openshaw, Joint Base Lewis-McChord Fisher House, WA

I often leave the Fisher House with the thought that I am a part of someone’s legacy — all because two people, Mr. and Mrs. Fisher, cared for others. I say to myself when I hear guests talking over dinner, “this has to be much like the conversation that Mr. and Mrs. Fisher had at their own kitchen table.” I can almost hear them now, “honey, once we build the house, families can sit together over dinner and share experiences and encourage each other.” When I see that very thing come to pass I am beyond honored to be a part of such a legacy as the Fisher’s. — Vanniecia Brown, Fisher House Manager, St. Louis

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UPDATE Through generous donations from frequent fliers and our airline partners, our Hero Miles program has now provided over 55,000 airline tickets to wounded, injured and ill service members and their families, providing a savings of $86 million. To find out how you can help support this program, visit www.fisherhouse.org.

Olivia's

Stand

Support from Aberdeen, Maryland Olivia Melvern had a lemonade stand to raise funds for Fisher House. She broke her arm on the day of the Chesapeake Support our Heroes Gala, but still attended so she could present her check to Fisher House Foundation. This past September marked the 10th year that the Chesapeake Support our Heroes Gala has honored Fisher House, raising over $1.7 million in donations. 22

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TEAM FISHER HOUSE announces the Patriot Challenge!

The Patriot Challenge is a fundraising campaign designed to make raising funds and awareness for Fisher House easy, fun and meaningful. Just sign up for any walk, run, cycle or swim event, anywhere in the world — then register for the Patriot Challenge. After registering, you’ll receive fun race gear and commemorative items for your support. As soon as you hit “submit” on your registration form, a customizable Patriot Challenge donation page will be created just for you including everything you’ll need to raise funds and awareness for Fisher House. Feel free to share your photos with us too and use the hashtag #PatriotChallenge All the details can be found at www.TeamFisherHouse.org/PatriotChallenge Need some additional assistance? We have a dedicated staff member to help you become a Champion for Military Families. Call the Foundation at (301) 294-8560 and ask for Gillian.

2015 MILITARY RACE FUNDRAISING TEAM SCHEDULE May 17: Marine Corps Historic Half Fredericksburg, VA September 19: Air Force Marathon Dayton, OH (Race Slots Available) September 20: Navy-Air Force Half-Marathon & Navy 5-Miler Washington, D.C. October 11: Army Ten-Miler Washington, D.C. (Race Slots Available) October 25: Marine Corps Marathon & 10K Arlington, VA (Race Slots Available) Become a Champion for Military Families — Register today! www.teamfisherhouse.org

The Youngest TFH Runner Fourteen-year-old Alexander Van Valkenburgh was the youngest runner on Team Fisher House at the Marine Corps Marathon last fall. When asked why he runs for Team Fisher House, Alexander explained that he was born several weeks prematurely at Bethesda Naval Hospital. Not only did his grandparents stay at the Fisher House, his mother also did while he was in NICU. His first stop on leaving the hospital — a Fisher House. He said it was his honor to run for Fisher House and he plans to do it next year, too. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

HOUSE ROUND-UP The Patriot always loves to check in and see what our Fisher Houses have been up to. Here we share highlights from houses around the world. ALASKA

JBER HOSPITAL

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER, SAN DIEGO

Elmendorf AFB, AK

San Diego, CA

Almost two years ago, two guests were talking in the Alaska Fisher House kitchen about being tired of illness and how it was consuming everyday life. One said to the other, “I would give anything to fly fish today!” Someone overheard their conversation and made a call. Project Healing Waters is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and Veterans through fly fishing. Three hours a week, David Rooker teaches families about tying flies, casting and swapping fish stories from around the state. Some people think they are just talking about fishing; but they witness comfort, bonding and healing. Thank you Project Healing Waters, Alaska Chapter, for loving our families.

This year the San Diego Convention Center Centerplate, Inc. (SDCCC), hosted a dinner for all of their employees. In return, they asked the employees to give back to San Diego Fisher House by donating money for needed household items. Executive Chef Daryl O’Donnell, Molly Demers and crew not only provided a truck full of several different types of pantry and paper items along with two pallets of bottled water, but unloaded it as well. Thank you SDCCC for your generous donation.

CALIFORNIA

A GREATER LOS ANGELES V HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Los Angeles, CA One day while residents attended a Fisher House collage class activity, everyone began to notice that one person’s work began to take on an extraordinary design. Folks began to comment on the interesting methods he used in cutting various shapes for his collage, the bright colors, the depth, the textures, and finally the signature. At this point, all were convinced that this man obviously knew something about art. Turned out, the Los Angeles Fisher House resident was actually a world-renowned potter, Erik Fender, Than Tsidih (Sun Bird), from San Ildefonso, California. At the age of 10, Erik began potting with his mother and grandmother. He is an accomplished painter as well; in fact, he won an award in 1987 in a Congressional art competition. The West Los Angeles Fisher House is thrilled to have been presented an original work of art from such a renowned artist.

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Photo by Charlene Hall

DAVID GRANT USAF MEDICAL CENTER Travis AFB, CA The Valero Refining Crew in Benicia, California, has a soft spot in their hearts for Travis Fisher House. Each year they request a day to come to the house and volunteer. This year they came with their smiling faces and can-do attitudes and quickly went to work shampooing the carpets, weeding the Travis Fisher Park and removing and replacing an uneven brick pathway. They are always glad to give of their time, complete the hard tasks that others may not want to do, and assist in anything that is asked of them. Their enthusiasm and dedication to Travis Fisher House is much appreciated.

THE NORTH FLORIDA/ SOUTH GEORGIA VHS FISHER HOUSE Gainesville, FL

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

WASHINGTON D.C. VA MEDICAL CENTER

Ms. Ann Panteleakos, the National President for the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW, visited the Gainesville Fisher House in January. The Fisher House provided Ms. Panteleakos with a tour of the house, shared information on the house and their medical facility. It was a wonderful visit and some of our guests were present to meet Ms. Panteleakos.

F LO R I DA

EGLIN AIR FORCE HOSPITAL Eglin AFB, FL Since the Eglin Fisher House opening in 2010, they have had a generous donor who prefers complete anonymity. This person is a retired Air Force member with a passion for the Fisher House program. Each pay period, he makes a trip to the Eglin Commissary and purchases three or four bags of nonperishable foods for the Fisher House guests. Almost like clockwork, the manager can expect him to show up to deliver coffee, bottled water, cereal, laundry detergent and more. He wants no recognition or anything in return. He does it because the Fisher House is near and dear to him.

GEORGIA

CHARLIE NORWOOD VA MEDICAL CENTER Augusta, GA

Washington, D.C. VA Secretary Robert McDonald, joined the National Security Advisor, Susan Rice, to volunteer at the VA Fisher House in Washington, D.C., to commemorate MLK Day of Service. The Secretary and Dr. Rice not only helped prepare lunch for the Veterans and their families, but also spent time getting to know them and hear their stories. For Dr. Rice, it was “a real eye opener to the services that Fisher House provides."

acknowledge their kindness. During the check presentation, the club’s president noted that while those who participated were convicted felons, before they made the poor decisions that got them into prison, they were all Veterans who served proudly. This unusual fundraising event was but a small way to support fellow Veterans despite being incarcerated!

JAMES A. HALEY VETERANS’ HOSPITAL

The Charlie Norwood VA Fisher House dedicated a playground and basketball court in honor of John H. Kelley, a WWII Army Veteran and a Silver Star recipient who received care at the Augusta VA in the 1950s. His family donated funds for the recreational facility in gratitude for the exceptional care they said their father received there for post-traumatic stress disorder after the invasion of North Africa in 1942. The play area provides an outlet where children can run off some energy and adults can ease their stress.

Tampa, FL The Tampa Fisher House recently received a monetary donation from a group of donors they never expected to hear from — prisoners in a local correctional facility. Under the sponsorship of an area Vietnam Veterans chapter, the inmates had formed their own Veterans’ group open to fellow prisoners who served in the military, irrespective of the branch or era of their service. The group then decided to conduct a fundraiser to support a Veteran-focused organization. Through coordination with their community sponsors, they spread the word of their intent to conduct a “Walk-a-thon” around the prison’s recreation yard, solicited sponsors from inside and outside the “fence” and on the day of the event, walked around and around the small yard for a total of over 100 miles! Since none of the prisoners could come to the Fisher House to present their check, the Fisher House manager, Paula Welenc, went to the prison to THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

HOUSE ROUND-UP DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

KENTUCKY

BLANCHFIELD ARMY COMMUNITY

Fort Gordon, GA The Fisher House and several Fisher House families greeted the local American Legion Riders of Augusta, Georgia, upon their arrival to the Fort Gordon Fisher House. During their visit, the American Legion Riders and Blue Knights Riders presented a check to the Fort Gordon Fisher House along with some non-monetary donations. The riders were presented with an Army Fisher House patch as a thank you for their efforts.

Fort Campbell, KY The Fort Campbell Fisher House would like to thank Serta for their donation. Thanks to them, families will be sleeping comfortably on all new mattresses at other Fisher Houses as well! And thanks to the Ashley Furniture Home Store of Clarksville, Tennessee for the new look in a few of their bedrooms. MARYLAND

MALCOLM GROW CLINICS & SURGERY CENTER Andrews AFB, MD

ILLINOIS

EDWARD HINES, JR. VA HOSPITAL Hines, IL Hines Fisher House will celebrate their 5th Anniversary this year. The house opened its doors to guests on March 1, 2010, and has proudly served almost 4,000 Veterans, active duty service members and their families since inception. The house is located on the grounds of Hines VA Hospital near Chicago and primarily provides accommodations to family members of Veterans in the spinal cord injury units, blind rehabilitation center, ICU and hospice care. The Hines Fisher House team is excited to celebrate this spring with an open house and special activities to recognize the wonderful services that are provided to our Veterans and their families.

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The Fisher House at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, just celebrated their 20th anniversary. The house has been home to more than 5,000 military families since opening in September 1994. The staff at the Andrews Fisher House wishes to extend their deepest appreciation to all of the countless volunteers and supporters who have been a part of its history. It wouldn't have been possible without you. House Manager, Janet Grampp, was there when the house was dedicated and received the key from Zachary Fisher himself. “If these walls could talk they would tell the most amazing tales of love, loss, disappointment, strength, perseverance, compassion, courage, dignity and joy. It has indeed been a most amazing journey.”

WALTER REED NATIONAL MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER Bethesda, MD The Johanniter Order, the German Protestant branch of the Order of St. John, has been serving meals at the Walter Reed Fisher Houses for the past eight years. Their group takes much enjoyment in assisting the helpful staff serve the service men and women and their families at the Fisher Houses at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This past Veterans Day they had a large group of dedicated volunteers preparing breakfast for the Fisher House families.

WALTER REED — FOREST GLEN

N E W YO R K

ALBANY STRATTON VA MEDICAL CENTER

Silver Spring, MD The Forest Glen Fisher House recently held their annual clean-up day, where several local churches came to the house and did small maintenance jobs and landscaped the property. Thanks to all who help make the Fisher House even more beautiful.

Albany, NY

MISSISSIPPI MASSACHUSETTS

VA BOSTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM West Roxbury, MA As part of the “National Day of Service” VA Boston Fisher House had eight volunteers come and work cleaning, preparing lunch and dinner for our guests. Here is a photo of Charles (Chuck) Ritter, the Assistant Director of VA Boston Jamaica Plain Campus, rolling out homemade pasta for a fun family dinner. Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers.

KEESLER MEDICAL CENTER Keesler AFB, MS Members of the Cajun Chapter of the Special Military Active Retired Travel Club (S.M.A.R.T.) visited the Fisher House at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. They were there to present Executive Director Mr. Larry Vetter, a check. This was the result of the Cajuns chapter adopting Fisher House as their charity to support. Funds were raised at chapter musters through 50/50 raffles and white elephant sales. S.M.A.R.T. is a national organization of Veterans who like to travel in recreational vehicles of all types and sizes.

The Albany Fisher House located at the Stratton VA Medical Center was recently visited by an exceptional group of young ladies. Members of Girl Scout Troop #1033 from Chappaqua, New York arrived with two carloads of supplies for their house and fixings for a gourmet dinner. The girls had conducted a drive at their local supermarket, which was a tremendous success. In addition to collecting and delivering items and then preparing and serving a delicious meal, these talented young ladies performed several patriotic and uplifting songs for our guests. The troop members as well as their leaders truly embody the spirit of giving and they have left a lasting impression on the Albany home.

MISSOURI

VA ST. LOUIS MEDICAL CENTER St. Louis, MO Jaylan and her family expressed their appreciation to the St. Louis Fisher House by giving back to the Fisher House. Jaylan comes from a small but giving community, and they chose to support their local Fisher House. In addition to Jaylan’s support, she got her entire community — churches, banks, schools, companies and individuals — to help contribute to the Fisher House. Thank you, Jaylan!

St. Louis, MO The Seiler family stayed at the St. Louis Fisher House last January. Undergoing premature labor, Mrs. Seiler was flown to a local hospital, in downtown St. Louis, to deliver their child. A beautiful baby girl, Sadie Lynn Seiler, arrived eight weeks early, weighing a petite four pounds and eager to see the world. Her older brother Cameron, her parents, and all those who rooted for her successful delivery greeted her. The Seilers were able to return to their home in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, after a three-week stay. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

HOUSEROUND-UP NORTH CAROLINA

OHIO

P E N N S Y LVA N I A

NAVAL HOSPITAL CAMP LEJEUNE

CINCINNATI VA MEDICAL CENTER

VA PITTSBURGH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Camp Lejeune, NC

Cincinnati, OH

Pittsburgh, PA

The Camp Lejeune Fisher House recently accepted a check from Handy Mart/ Which Wich. This donation was the result of a fundraiser held at the local Which Wich sandwich shops, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the “Wicked” sandwich going to the Fisher House. This special fundraiser was in addition to the monthly food platters that are delivered to the house by the local staff.

Cincinnati Fisher House held their 1st Annual Adopt a Room Event, which allowed organizations, groups and companies to decorate a room of their choice within the Fisher House. This was a fun day for all, as everyone enjoyed the music, food, laughter and fellowship with the families and Veterans.

VA Pittsburgh Fisher House celebrated their 2nd year with an open house on December 4. More than 100 visitors stopped by to tour the beautiful house, talk with guests and enjoy a piece of cake. Since opening its doors two years ago, the Pittsburgh Fisher House has provided a home away from home to more than 1,000 families. TEXAS

BROOKE ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Ft. Sam Houston, TX

WRIGHT-PATTERSON MEDICAL CENTER WOMACK ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Fort Bragg, NC Command Sgt. Maj. Mohammad Ali Hussaini, Afghan National Army Ground Forces Command, and Command Sgt. Maj. of the Afghan National Army Safi Roshan visited the Fisher House in December. They toured Fort Bragg to gather information for the Afghan National Army on the methods the XVIII Airborne Corps utilizes for the care of wounded soldiers. Roshan penned a heartfelt note to the families staying at the Fort Bragg Fisher House. 28

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Wright-Patterson AFB, OH Tom Hamilton, store owner of Beavercreek Florist and Teleflora, decided to make the Wright-Patterson Fisher House a recipient of their “Make Someone Smile” week. Lisa Thornton and Jim Walters delivered “Be Happy Bouquets,” which had a yellow happy face mug filled with fresh white and yellow daisies for each of the Fisher House guests. Peg Dunlop, Beavercreek Florist Store Manager said, “We look forward to putting smiles on some faces!” The guests really enjoyed the arrangements, and as you can see from Fisher House guests, Mr. and Mrs. Fuller, it really did put smiles on their faces.

Six-and-a-half year old Elira won the raffle for a beautiful bike during the BAMC Fisher House’s Super Bowl Party. Elira has been staying at the BAMC Fisher Houses with her parents as her father receives treatment at San Antonio Military Medical Center. Despite her team not winning the Super Bowl, she was excited to win the bike.

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER, PORTSMOUTH Portsmouth, VA

MICHAEL E. DEBAKEY ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Houston, TX A wonderful gift was given to the Houston Fisher House in the form of an eight passenger golf cart from Tee It Up for the Troops. Although the hospital is not far from the Fisher House, the cart is very helpful to guests during bad weather. The golf cart drivers brave all the elements and care for our guests in a manner they deserve. They travel the campus Monday through Friday and are hoping to add weekend drivers soon.

WILFORD HALL AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER Lackland AFB, TX The Air Force 344th Training Squadron assigned to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, sponsored a 1-mile walk/5K/Fitness Event to support the Lackland Fisher House. The 344th Squadron trains Boom Operators, Loadmasters, Flight Engineers and Aviators. Nearly 50 athletes participated with a donated household item for free entry. VIRGINIA

FORT BELVOIR COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Chantal Cooper, a junior at the University of Maryland College Park, contacted the Fisher House with a goal. Interestingly, she had already planned, organized, and was heading a fundraiser to benefit the families at the Fisher House Portsmouth. According to Chantal, she decided to donate to a non-profit organization that benefited the military family more than the organization itself. She was looking for an organization that solely helped individuals during rough, fragile times and were not collecting any type of money from the individuals themselves. After much research, she concluded that the Fisher House was her choice. Chantal hosted a food drive with the families in mind. Flyers were made and distributed around campus and with help from the university staff, students, family and friends she pulled this off in 2 weeks. The week of her finals, Chantal came to the house with over $800 worth of non-perishable food items. WA S H I N G T O N

VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Seattle, WA December was a very festive month, as the VA Puget Sound Fisher House launched its first ever “12 Days of December,” (a witty spinoff of the classic holiday song) on December 8th. The kick-off began with a morning visit by Santa Al (a long time holiday visitor to Fisher House), who distributed gifts for kids (big and small) and a breakfast prepared by the Fisher House staff. Events over the next 12 days included a presentation of “Partridge in a Pear Tree” ornaments to all guests, a Guests Night-Out at a local chicken restaurant, and daily themed events in their kitchen including chocolate turtle candies, origami swans, chocolate and peppermint milkshakes and other fun tokens and activities for the guests. GERMANY

LANDSTUHL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Landstuhl When Fisher House and the Semper Fi Fund jointly hosted a trip for seven wounded warriors to return to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, one of the participants was retired Navy Hospitalman Joe Dan Worley, who was severely injured in 2004. Joe Dan and his family spent more than a year in Fisher House III at Walter Reed Army Medical Center when Vivian Wilson was the manager. Vivian, now the manager of the Landstuhl Fisher Houses was reunited with Joe Dan.

Ft. Belvoir, VA The Fisher House at Fort Belvoir accepted a check for over $3,000 from a local Virginia Team Fisher House fundraising group called Cruisin for Heroes. The groups’ primary mission is to raise awareness and funds for Fisher House Foundation. This donation was the result of a recent car show fundraiser hosted by Cruisin for Heroes Valley Mustang Unlimited Car Club at the Harrisonburg Ford Dealership.

UNITED KINGDOM

QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL BIRMINGHAM Birmingham, UK In January 2015, HRH Prince Harry had a private visit to Fisher House UK at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. He met with patients, families and staff at the hospital and heard how Fisher House is helping the UK’s military patients and their families whilst their loved ones receive treatment. He became the second member of the British Royal Family to sign the Fisher House UK visitor book, after his father HRH Prince Charles signed the book when opening the house in April 2013. Since opening its doors, Fisher House UK has been home to over 1,100 military and their families. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES FROM

FISHER HOUSE: Since our last issue of The Patriot, Fisher House Foundation has been working on a heavy construction schedule to open several additional Fisher Houses in 2015. We are under construction for Fisher Houses in Portland, Oregon; a second home at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; N. Las Vegas, Nevada, and Camp Pendleton in California. Thanks to all our supporters in communities throughout the country, these new homes will have the capacity to help 67 additional families each night.

Joint

N. Las Vegas, N V

, CA n o t e l Pend p m a C

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Base L

In N. Las Vegas, ground was broken for a 16-suite Fisher House at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System. This will be the first Fisher House in the state of Nevada.

ewis-

McC ho

rd, W A

CA Camp Pendleton,

Delta Air Lines Brand Ambassadors stand ready to present the ceremonial shovels to dignitaries at the groundbreaking of the second Joint Base Lewis-McChord Fisher House in Tacoma, Washington. Delta Air Lines contributed significantly to the construction.

The U.S. Marine Corps, together with Fisher House Foundation and United Health Foundation, celebrated the groundbreaking of a new Fisher House at Camp Pendleton last November.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

IN ACTION

Tucson, AZ

School Kids on a Patriotic Mission Raise $12,000 for Fisher House

In between multiplication tables, Jane Eyre and Russian history, students from the Vail, AZ, Unified School District took on a huge project to support Veterans by partnering with Friends of the Arizona Fisher House to raise money for the Arizona Fisher House.

All 18 schools in the District competed in the fundraising event. As for the winners, there were three schools who won flags and were visited by a helicopter from Customs and Border Protection. Two of the awarded flags were flown over the U.S. Capitol in D.C., and the other was generously donated by Capt. Natalie Beede, who flew Marine Corp Hueys in Iraq in 2003.

The students, staff and community members sold $1 paper American flags. The flags, along with other creative fundraisers, brought in more than $12,000 towards the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System Fisher House in Tucson.

The school that was most creative and raised $1,018 was Esmond Station. The school that won for most funds raised per student was Vail Blended Learning at $7.44 per student. The third flag was awarded to Andrada Polytechnic High School for collecting $3,437.

“This was all about the Vail School District saying thank you to the men and women who currently serve in the military and to those who have served in the past,” said Mark Tate, who headed up the effort. “Many of our students have family members who were in the military and many want to go into the military themselves. This was just a perfect fit.” To kick off the fundraising efforts, Air Force Veteran and triple amputee Brian Kolfage, who was seriously injured in Iraq, spoke to nearly 700 students at Andrada High School about his arduous recovery and how important the Fisher House was in that effort.

“It was inspiring to see how the children stepped up to help our American heroes,” said Dr. Dana Staggs, president of the Friends of Arizona Fisher House. “They will forever have a part of their hearts and souls invested in the Arizona Fisher House.” — Kerri Childress

Now in its third year, the Bristol Half Marathon and Relay is one of Fisher House Connecticut’s most exciting events. It is quickly becoming a destination race on the East Coast for serious runners preparing for the New York, Hartford, and Boston Marathons. Runners from 15 states registered in 2014. Everyone loves the Fire v. Police Relay Challenge that attracts departments from across the state to face off in a relay, with the Annual Trophy passed to the winning department each year. Boasting a scenic and challenging course, runners are lining up to “Kill the Hill” in 2015! The 3rd Annual Bristol Half Marathon and Relay to benefit Fisher House CT. Race date is August 16, 2015. Follow our progress or register online at www.fisherhousect.org and www.bristolhalfmarathonandrelay.org

Boston, MA

Bristol, CT

This past fall, Ashley Hansen, Community Relations Coordinator for the Boston Bruins, delivered 10 Thanksgiving pies from player Gregory Campbell for the guests staying at the Fisher House Boston. The Boston Bruins work closely with Fisher House Boston, to support those who serve and have served by providing tickets, merchandise for fundraising events, and pies for special occasions, like these from Gregory Campbell on Thanksgiving. We are so thankful to be one of the Boston Bruins Charities.

Photo credit: Ron Tessman www.BristolCt.net L.L.C.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

DOWN

FISHER HOUSE DIRECTORY

RANGE Fisher House Foundation is building on its commitment to help military and Veterans' families

Southern Arizona VA Health Care System

Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Tampa, FL (second house) Keesler Medical Center Keesler AFB, MS (second house) Womack Army Medical Center Fort Bragg, NC VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System N. Las Vegas, NV Portland VA Medical Center Portland, OR *This home is part of the Portland VA Medical Center, but its exact location is in Vancouver, Washington. Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Charleston, SC

VA Long Beach Healthcare System Long Beach, CA

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System 10000 Bay Pines Blvd. Bay Pines, FL 33744 (727) 319-1350 fax: (727) 319-1106 Manager: Lana Toenjes lana.toenjes2@va.gov

David Grant USAF Medical Center I, II 100 Bodin Circle Travis AFB, CA 94535-1804 (707) 423-7550 fax: (707) 423-7552 Manager: Charlene Hall charlene.hall.1@us.af.mil

under construction:

Camp Pendleton, CA

FLORIDA

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital 4943 Zeamer Ave. 673 MDSS/SGS/FH Elmendorf AFB, AK 99506 (907) 222-1673 Manager: Jenny Hall jhall@akfisherhouse.org

CALIFORNIA

The following projects are currently in design or

Tucson, AZ

ALASKA

VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System 11301 Wilshire Blvd. (10AF) Bldg 512 Los Angeles, CA 90073 (310) 268-4457 fax: (310) 268-3499 Manager: Sharon Hudson sharon.hudson4@va.gov VA Palo Alto Health Care System 3801 Miranda Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94304 (650) 493-5000 x. 60384 fax: (650) 849-1269 Manager: Betsey Striebel betsey.striebel@va.gov Naval Medical Center San Diego I, II 34800 Bob Wilson Dr. Bldg 46 San Diego, CA 92134-5000 (619) 532-9055 fax: (619) 532-5216 Manager: Kristin Palmer kristin.m.palmer.naf@mail.mil

COLORADO VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System 1954 Quentin St. Aurora, CO 80010 (303) 399-8020 x. 2049 fax: (303) 364-4882 Manager: Tessa Levy tessa.levy@va.gov

DELAWARE Fisher House for Families of the Fallen 220 Lajes St. Dover AFB, DE 19902 (302) 677-5317 Manager: TSgt. Cheryl Uylaki cheryl.uylaki@us.af.mil

Madigan Army Medical Center Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA (second house) Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center Milwaukee, WI

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Washington D.C. VA Medical Center 50 Irving St. NW Washington, D.C. 20422 (202) 745-2482 Manager: Stacey Childs stacey.childs@va.gov

Eglin Air Force Hospital 350 Boatner Rd. Eglin AFB, FL 32542 (850) 883-2865 Manager: Ron Gribble ronald.gribble@eglin.af.mil James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital 13000 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Tampa, FL 33612 (813) 910-3000 fax: (813) 910-3088 Manager: Paula Welenc paula.welenc@va.gov Malcom Randall VA Hospital 1601 SW Archer Rd (11i) Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 376-1611 x. 4469 Manager: Tanya E. Fookes tanya.fookes@va.gov Miami VA Healthcare System 1201 NW 16th St. Miami, FL 33125 (305) 575-7260 fax: (305) 575-7261 Manager: Carolyn Soucy carolyn.soucy@va.gov West Palm Beach VA Medical Center 7305 N. Military Trail-Route 136 W. Palm Beach, FL 33410 (561) 422-5554 fax: (561) 442-8793 Manager: Shelley Prickett shelley.prickett@va.gov

GEORGIA Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center One Freedom Way Augusta, GA 30904 (706) 729-5773 Manager: Anne Arnold anne.arnold@va.gov Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center Fisher House Rd. - Bldg 280 Fort Gordon, GA 30905-5650 (706) 787-7100 fax: (706) 787-5106 Manager: Francisco Cruz fheamc@aol.com

HAWAII Tripler Army Medical Center I, II 315 Krukowski Rd. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 433-1291 x. 28 fax: (808) 433-3619 Manager: Anita Clingerman anita.f.clingerman.naf@mail.mil

* Please direct all correspondence to the Zachary and Elizabeth M. Fisher House, along with the specific house address. For any correspondence questions, please contact the Fisher House manager directly at the desired location.

ILLINOIS

MISSOURI

TEXAS

VIRGINIA

Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital 5000 S 5th Ave. Hines, IL 60141 (708) 202-7154 fax: (708) 202-7155 Manager: Holly Wright holly.wright@va.gov

St. Louis VA Medical Center 1 Jefferson Barracks Rd. St. Louis, MO 63125 (314) 652-4100 x. 66945 fax: (314) 894-6147 Manager: Vanniecia Brown vanniecia.brown@va.gov

Brooke Army Medical Center I,II,III,IV San Antonio Military Medical Center 3623 George C. Beach Dr. Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234 (210) 916-6000 fax: (210) 916-6488 Manager: Inge Godfrey fhbamc@aol.com

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital 9201 Woodbury Rd. Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060 (703) 805-5203 Manager: Roxannamaria Calderon belvoirfisherhouse@gmail.com

NEW YORK

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Bldg. 36015 Fisher Ln. Fort Hood, TX 78254 (254) 286-7927 fax: (254) 286-7929 Manager: Theresa Johnson theresa.m.johnson2.naf@mail.mil

KENTUCKY Blanchfield Army Community Hospital 652 Joel Dr. Fort Campbell, KY 42223 (270) 798-8330 fax: (270) 798-8804 Manager: Wendy J. Carlston wendy.j.carlston.naf@mail.mil

Stratton VA Medical Center 113 Holland Ave. Albany, NY 12208 (518) 626-6919 fax: (518) 626-5452 Manager: Michael Fitzpatrick michael.fitzpatrick3@va.gov

MARYLAND

NORTH CAROLINA

Malcolm Grow Clinics & Surgery Center 1076 West Perimeter Rd. Andrews AFB, MD 20762 (301) 981-1243 fax: (301) 981-7629 Manager: Janet Grampp janet_grampp@msn.com

Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital 4 Recovery Way Camp Lejeune, NC 28547 (910) 450-3885 fax: (910) 450-3887 Manager: Josie Callahan josephine.f.callahan@usmc.mil

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center I, II, III, IV, V 24 Stokes Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814-5002 (301) 295-5334 fax: (301) 295-5632 Manager: Kenneth E. Merritt kemerritt@fisherhousebethesda.org Walter Reed – Forest Glen Annex 2460 Linden Ln. Bldg 173 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 295-7374 x. 10 fax: (301) 295-8012 Manager: Maurice Borde wrfisher2a@aol.com

MASSACHUSETTS VA Boston Healthcare System 1400 VFW Pkwy. West Roxbury, MA 02132 (857) 203-4000 Manager: Elizabeth St. Pierre elizabeth.stpierre@va.gov

MINNESOTA Minneapolis VA Health Care System I, II 1 Veterans Dr. Minneapolis, MN 55417 (612) 467-5602 fax: (612) 970-5864 Manager: Marge Oslund mary.oslund@va.gov

MISSISSIPPI Keesler Medical Center 509 Fisher St. Keesler AFB, MS 39534-2599 (228) 377-8264 fax: (228) 377-7691 Manager: Larry Vetter larry.vetter.1@us.af.mil

Womack Army Medical Center 12 Bassett St. Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000 (910) 432-1486 fax: (910) 432-3825 Manager: Lorie Southerland fbfisherhouse@aol.com

OHIO Cincinnati VA Medical Center 3200 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45220 (513) 475-6571 fax: (513) 487-6661 Manager: Karrie Hagan karrie.hagan@va.gov Wright-Patterson Medical Center I, II 417 Schlatter Dr. Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433 (937) 257-0855 fax: (937) 656-2150 Manager: Karen Healea karen.healea@wpafb.af.mil

PENNSYLVANIA VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System University Drive C, Bldg 33 Pittsburgh, PA 15240 (412) 360-2030 fax: (937) 656-2150 Manager: Heather Frantz heather.frantz@va.gov

TENNESSEE Tennessee Valley Healthcare System 3400 Lebanon Pike Murfreesboro, TN 37129 (615) 225-5758 Manager: Becky Wood rebecca.wood4@va.gov

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center I, II 2002 Holcombe Blvd. Houston, TX 77030 (713) 794-8095 fax: (713) 794-7194 Manager: Frank Kelley frank.kelley@va.gov VA North Texas Health Care System 4500 S. Lancaster Rd. Bldg 79 Dallas, TX 75216 (214) 857-2574 fax: (214) 462-4923 Manager: Lydia Henderson lydia.henderson1@va.gov South Texas Veterans Health Care System 7485 Wurzbach Road San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 617-5300 x. 16626 Manager: Erik Zielinski erik.zielinski@va.gov Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center I, II, III San Antonio Military Medical Center 1445 Foster Ave. Bldg 3865 Lackland AFB, TX 78236 (210) 671-6037 fax: (210) 671-6020 Manager: Sara Richardson-Paniagua sr-fisherhouse@sbcglobal.net William Beaumont Army Medical Center Bldg 7360 Rodriguez St. El Paso, TX 79930 (915) 569-1860 fax: (915) 569-1862 Manager: Jennifer Daugherty jennifer.e.daugherty.naf@mail.mil

UTAH VA Salt Lake City Health Care System 690 S. Valdez Dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84148 (801) 588-5900 Manager: Quinn Kiger-Good quinn.kiger@va.gov

Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center 1201 Broad Rock Blvd. Richmond, VA 23249 (804) 675-6639 fax: (804) 675-5979 Manager: Wayne Walker wayne.walker@va.gov Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth 853 Fisher Dr. Bldg 287 Portsmouth, VA 23708 (757) 953-6889 fax: (757) 953-7174 Manager: Jill Thompson jill.thompson@portsmouthfisherhouse.org

WASHINGTON Madigan Army Medical Center 9999 Wilson Ave. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433 (253) 964-9283 fax: (253) 968-3619 Manager: Jodi Land info@fisherhouse-jblm.org VA Puget Sound Healthcare System 1660 South Columbian Way Seattle, WA 98108 (206) 768-5353 fax: (206) 277-1415 Manager: Stephanie Toepp stephanie.toepp@va.gov

GERMANY Landstuhl Regional Medical Center I & II CMR 402 Box 669 APO, AE 09180 011-49-6371-9464-7430 fax: 011-49-6371-866679 Manager: Vivian Wilson vivian.l.wilson.naf@mail.mil

UNITED KINGDOM Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Mindelsohn Way Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham B15 2TH 0121-472-6217 fax: 0121-4130-6897 Manager: Patrick Hogan fisherhouse@uhb.nhs.uk

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • 2015

Fisher House Foundation, Inc. 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420 Rockville, MD 20850-5000

Because we

our heroes.

For 25 years, the Fisher House program has provided a “home away from home” for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. These homes provide free temporary lodging to military and Veterans’ families so they can be close to their loved one during a medical crisis, allowing them to focus on what’s important — the healing process. Due to the generosity of people like you, Fisher House Foundation is able to build and help support the operation of more than 60 existing homes, the core of our mission. Additionally, our Hero Miles program assists with travel needs, and our scholarship program offers educational opportunities to military children and spouses. With your help, we will continue to meet the needs of our military community today, and long into the future. Show your love by making a donation to Fisher House. To learn more, please visit www.fisherhouse.org or call (888) 294-8560.