The Patriot Magazine Volume 6 Issue 2 by Fisher House Foundation

2015 VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION, INC. TM

www.fisherhouse.org

COVER STORY

FISHER HOUSE WAS A REFUGE for Army Couple Struggling to Have a Family

S pecial A nniversary E dition

Contents Social Media Support

Fisher House Serves Our Allies

Guest FamilyProfile: The Carpenter Family

2015 Day In the Life Photo Contest

Star Spangled Support

Meet the Staff

Fisher House Salutes

Heart Behind the House

Fisher House History

Anniversary Acknowledgements

Heroes Programs

Team Fisher House

Journal Entries

Cover Story: The Wooten Family

25th Anniversary Tribute

Celebrating 25 Years

Anniversary Campaign Sponsors

New Fisher House Programs

Meet the Manager

25th Anniversary Golf Classic

Volunteer of the Year Awards

House Round-Up

House Dedication

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 Department 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.

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 may be taxdeductible as allowed by US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines.

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, Heroes’ Legacy Scholarships, the

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

Fisher House Foundation thanks 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, Each day as Fisher House Foundation goes about its business, we are guided by the premise that we are “continuing the legacy” begun 25 years ago by my Great Uncle Zachary Fisher and his wife Elizabeth. Uncle Zachary was a Patriot, hence the name of this publication. He also was a visionary and because of his concept of a foundation raising money and building homes, then donating them to the government, we have been able to continue his dream and so much more. In the past, the greatest unmet needs have been the needs of military and Veterans’ families. These families are making sacrifices and bearing burdens that the average American can never understand. That’s why the support Fisher House Foundation provides is so critical and will remain critical. It is not only the lodging at no cost, but also the Hero Miles program, the scholarships, the Newman’s Own grants, that help the troops and their families.

Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation

Fisher House Program by the

Numbers

$282 Million Savings for Families in Lodging and Transportation Cost

6 Million Days of Lodging Offered

I hope when you finish reading this special 25th Anniversary Patriot that you will come away with a better understanding of my family’s dedication to our military, Veterans and their families. Zach once said, “There is a dignity and majesty in the efforts of our Armed Forces and it is well to remember and honor the noble deeds of those who have worn our country’s uniform.” My deepest thanks to all of you who have defended our nation, and that includes your families. And thanks to all who have supported Fisher House Foundation these past 25 years, either through your hard earned dollars, frequent flyer miles or volunteer time. It’s important to celebrate our 25th year, but know that there isn’t a single year that goes by that my wife Tammy, Fisher House Foundation staff, our trustees, our managers, our volunteers, our community support groups and I are not giving our very best “to remember and honor the noble deeds of those who have worn our country’s uniform.” With heartfelt gratitude,

Kenneth Fisher Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation @KenFisherFHF

Over

250 Thousand Families Served

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

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 House Foundation has received an A+ from CharityWatch (formerly the American Institute of Philanthropy) in their “Veterans and Military” category. Out of 55 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 monitor. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT

FACEBOOK FEEDBACK www.facebook.com/FisherHouse “I love the Fisher House! I stayed at FH1 in Germany until the day after my son was born and then moved into FH2. I am still so thankful for this foundation and the loving people who work and volunteer at the homes. They helped a young pregnant woman (then a young mom) who was alone and scared! I will forever be grateful!” — Bonnie A. “Fisher House Hero Miles made it possible for my mother to be here in Germany with my daughter and I while I battle cancer and go through chemo. Thank you so much!!!” — Erika S. “I just finished reading the official magazine of Fisher House, The Patriot, from cover to cover. Thank you so much for the care, love and support that Fisher House provides to our military and their families. I have a son who is a Marine and he is the reason I became aware of your foundation. Thank you for enlightening me with the stories of these selfless men and women who gave everything for our country and for their families who continually day after day live the battle with them. You are amazing!!”

TWITTER LOVE www.twitter.com/FisherHouseFdtn Wendy B @everydaymundane @FisherHouseFdtn thank you for the #heromiles and for such an amazing living space for my family while at @NICoEPage Rachael @rlzizzle Raising funds and awareness for @FisherHouseFdtn at the ATM 2015 race #4YearsRunning Kevin S Potter @Kevin_S_Potter Great to see @FisherHouseFdtn volunteers supporting the families of the 2015 #WarriorGames

— Cindy B.

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 2 • 2015

FISHER HOUSE

SERVES OUR ALLIES AND THEIR FAMILIES Story by Kerri Childress

“You can’t go through it alone, you really can’t,” said British soldier Stuart Gemmell, who lost a leg in Afghanistan. “My family visited me every day for the eight weeks I was in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. They stayed at the Fisher House.” Fisher House UK is the only Fisher House not serving American service members and their families. Since it opened in June 2013, more than 1,200 people have stayed there, mostly Brits. The home has provided more than 7,200 nights of lodging. “Thankfully, the number of battlefield casualties returning to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham has reduced over the past 12 months,” said Fisher House Manager Patrick Hogan. “However, we still see a number of casualties from around the world, even though the media has not brought these casualties to the notice of the general public.” Hogan also talked about the number of trauma injuries from training exercises, like parachute operations, live fire exercises, mountaineering, traffic accidents, etc. “And we have seen an increase in the number of patients and families using the house for ongoing outpatient treatment for their trauma injuries, or cancer, organ transplants, injuries like that,” said Hogan. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham is a hospital in Britain that has specially dedicated treatment for military and Veterans. Consequently, families come from all over the British Isles to be near their loved ones. “And not just Britain, during the year we have housed families from the Falkland Islands, Germany, Gibraltar, South Africa, Canada, Nepal and Cyprus,” added Hogan.

Fisher House Foundation also has supported British troops through the Hero Miles program, too, like grievously injured British Marine Mark Ormrod, who flew to the United States through Hero Miles in order to be fitted with a prosthetic arm. Because he was the first British triple amputee from Afghanistan, it was difficult for him to find people he could talk to and draw knowledge from their experience. So Mark decided to travel to America where he hoped to meet with other amputees who had been living that way for much longer so he could learn from them. While in the United States, Mark was introduced to a whole new world of peer support, mentoring, disability education and levels of independence and compassion that he did not know existed. “Fisher House Foundation has really made a difference to our British warriors,” said Hogan. “A quick story. A very severely injured 21-year-old double amputee, who had also lost his sight, was being cared for at the hospital here. His family were staying at the Fisher House and on numerous occasions was told to come and say goodbye. Even though he was unconscious, they read to him and were there for him every day. He regained consciousness and on his 21st birthday he left the hospital for the first time to come to a party at the Fisher House. That bloke comes back to visit us now and he is an inspiration to everyone. His family just never gave up and could support him because of the Fisher House.” Perhaps Tammy Fisher, Fisher House Foundation trustee, who attended the Fisher House UK dedication, said it best: “We salute the service of military, Veterans and their families whether they salute the Stars and Stripes or the Union Jack. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

GUEST FAMILY PROFILE

The Carpenter Family

Story and photos by Ashley Estill

NAME: CORPORAL KYLE CARPENTER HOUSES: WALTER REED AND RICHMOND HOME: SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY BRANCH: MARINE CORPS

“I wanted to join something, a purpose, an idea bigger than myself,” explains Medal of Honor recipient, Corporal Kyle Carpenter, USMC. “I didn’t want to wake up and miss an opportunity to serve. I was trying to make a difference.” And make a difference he did. Kyle is only one of 12 Medal of Honor recipients from the war in Afghanistan. Kyle entered the Marine Corps in 2009 and on Nov. 21, 2010, he was injured in the Marjah district of Helmand, Afghanistan, when he covered a grenade to save the life of a fellow service member. After his injury, Kyle started his journey to Bethesda, MD where he would receive initial treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. After spending seven weeks at Walter Reed, Kyle was discharged and sent to the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, VA for further treatment. The VA in Richmond is one of five level-one Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers in the country. Kyle would spend another seven weeks recovering in Richmond, while his family called Fisher House their home. “We can’t say enough about the convenience and comfort the home away from home provided,” Kyle’s mother Robin said. “To be able to get a shower, wash clothes, have a meal and place to rest, was irreplaceable. And we could take good care of Kyle.” Robin and Jim, Kyle’s father, were unfamiliar with the processes that went 4

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“We can’t say enough about the convenience and comfort the home away from home provided” Corporal Kyle Carpenter and his parents, Robin and Jim at their South Carolina home. Lower Right Photo Opposite Page – U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cp. Michael C. Guinto

Once the Carpenter family left Richmond, they went back home to South Carolina, where Kyle and Robin would continue to make trips back to Walter Reed for outpatient treatments. Each time they returned to Walter Reed, they had Fisher House to call their home. In July 2013, Cpl. Kyle Carpenter medically retired from the Marine Corps. Later that year, he enrolled as a fulltime student at the University of South Carolina to pursue a degree in international studies. His goal is to enter the counter intelligence field. “I did two internships in Washington, DC and that started my drive and passion for the counter terrorism intelligence field,” Kyle explained. “It solidified where I want to go, and, in a broad sense, what I want to do. I can stay in the fight and keep things safe at home.” While a student, a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and a public speaker, Kyle also received a phone call from the Commander in Chief that he would receive the nation’s highest honor – the Medal of Honor. On June 19, 2014, Kyle became the youngest living recipient of the Medal of Honor, and was presented the award by President Obama in a White House ceremony.

with having an injured child. They were pleased with the treatment Kyle received along the way, and being steps away from his hospital room made the recovery process much easier. “You have so much going on and you need to be there to focus on upcoming surgeries and listen to Kyle’s multiple doctors. Being there was invaluable,” Robin continued. “If we had to go off base to a hotel, and then try to get on base for a 5 a.m. surgery or doctor’s appointment, it would have been so much harder.” Jim echoed his wife’s sentiment. “It might be 10 p.m. when we needed to speak to Kyle’s doctors. You were on their time since they were helping others. But that’s what Fisher House enabled us to do. We could be there when they came by to talk. It helped so much to understand and get answers to our questions.” For Kyle, he could focus on his rehabilitation and know his parents were there and taken care of. “I needed and wanted the support and love of my parents right there with me,” Kyle said. “I know I had, at least in a medical and physical aspect, a lot of people who cared about me. Going through recovery, I was comforted knowing that if my Mom was tired or if I had an 8-hour surgery, she could be comfortable and have somewhere to go and a support system.” Kyle’s parents knew that in a hotel setting they would have been isolated. Instead, they were surrounded by other families who were fighting similar battles.

Kyle continues to attend school and figure life out like the rest of his peers. He is making good grades and enjoying everything that comes along with being a student. “There are a lot of moving pieces, and a lot of great lessons to learn about handling things. My support has been great and I couldn’t have done it without my family and friends,” Kyle said. “Even though we’re years beyond of our Fisher House days, I am comforted in knowing they’re always there and they will always be there for us.”

KAPPA SIGMA

SUPPORTS FISHER HOUSE Kyle is a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, which also has a history of supporting Fisher House Foundation. The Kappa Sigma Military Heroes Campaign has brothers all over the country coming together to support our service men and women and their families. The Washington DC VA Fisher House, which has a cornerstone dedicated in honor of their brother Robert J. Dole, was the original focus of their philanthropy, and now they’ve turned their attention to supporting a new Fisher House at Fort Bragg, NC. Thank you to all the Kappa Sigma members around the nation who support military families.

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Eglin Air Force Base Fisher House Photo by Kelly McDaniel

DAY IN THE

LIFE 2015

MANAGER’S CHOICE WASHINGTON, DC VA FISHER HOUSE Photo by Kerri Childress

PHOTO CONTEST

Eglin Air Force Base Fisher House Photo by Kindall Bryant

Sixty-five Fisher Houses around the world support thousands of military families each year. Our annual “Day in the Life” photo contest gives us a glimpse into their lives of supporting their loved ones. Here are the winners of this year’s contest and some other favorites.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: NICK MAVRICK

Three years ago at the 2012 Marine Corps Marathon, Nick Mavrick was introduced to Fisher House Foundation. His mom, Kathy Ziegler, spotted Team Fisher House at the Marine Corps Marathon Expo in their bright yellow gear, and signed Nick up to run the marathon with us.

Since the marathon, Nick and Kathy have continued to support Fisher House Foundation. In 2013, Nick helped the Foundation support the Warrior Games Family Program by creating the family program website, assisting during the week of Warrior Games and taking photos.

“At the conclusion of the race I met Fisher House staff and the more I learned about the Foundation, it’s just such a high functioning team,” Nick explained. “You just see this common thread of commitment to the cause.”

His support has continued to be an asset and his responsibilities increase every year. Nick is a constant presence at Warrior Games — and Invictus Games — while he continues to maintain the websites and even assist with sponsorship follow-up for the Family Program.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Nick and Kathy always have a smile on their faces and stop at nothing to support our military families, and we sincerely appreciate their tireless efforts on our behalf. “It feeds my heart to be here,” Nick said. “I feel like I am the one being given a gift.” Thank you to Nick, Kathy and all our volunteers who support the Fisher House program.

Meet the Staff

STAR

SPANGLED SUPPORT In an effort to support America’s military, Veterans and their families, Queen Latifah has gifted her rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, sung during the 2015 NBA All Star game, to Fisher House Foundation. “Our military and their families sacrifice for us every day, often in ways we can’t even imagine,” said Queen Latifah. “I’m honored to give back through an organization that I admire that has been supporting the military and Veterans for the past 25 years — Fisher House Foundation. The homes that they build at military and Veterans’ hospitals have served hundreds of thousands of families, allowing them to be near their loved ones while healing in nearby Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs medical centers.” Fisher House Foundation has made the song available to the public on iTunes, Google Play and other online outlets. Thanks to Queen Latifah, all the proceeds will benefit military families through the Foundation’s programs.

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.

Coreen Burnett Chief Accountant It took a long time, but I have finally found my forever job. The day I interviewed at Fisher House six-and-a-half years ago, I knew I wanted the job. Fisher House Foundation President Dave Coker, and Vice President Derek Donovan both interviewed me and made me feel so comfortable and at ease that all I could think about for two weeks was wanting to walk into the office and get to work before I finally got the call that I was hired! My role with the Foundation is Chief Accountant. I make sure that all receipts and disbursements are properly recorded, that everyone gets paid, prepare reports for management on a regular basis and oversee the work for our annual audit. And every once in a while I go to an event outside the office to help spread the word about Fisher House. I earned my Masters in Accounting in 2001 from the University of Southern New Hampshire and hold my CPA license from the state of Massachusetts. I have been married for 33 years to my husband Larry. We have a 26-year-old son who lives in South Carolina and a yellow lab named Whiskey who keeps us company now that we are empty nesters. My passion outside of work is quilting and I have put my hobby to work for Fisher House Foundation by donating quilts to the Golf Classic auction for the last four years. I am the current guild president for Four County Quilters Guild near my home. In between quilting I enjoy loom knitting baby hats for donations to local hospital nurseries and reading mystery books. I spent many years as an auditor in the not-for-profit sector. I can attest that Fisher House has a mission and fulfills that mission every single day. It is an honor to work at Fisher House. Dave thanks us frequently for all we do, and that is very special, to know you are appreciated! – Coreen Burnett THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

FISHER HOUSE

SALUTES

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

WE SALUTE: INTREPID MUSEUM It seems only appropriate to recognize the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in our 25th Anniversary year. Since 1982, the Intrepid Museum has become both a New York City and an American icon — a museum dedicated to building awareness and understanding of history, science and service through its collections, exhibitions, and public and educational programs. The USS Intrepid's history begins, as the Fisher House program did, with its founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, a couple passionate about the nation’s responsibility to honor the men and women who served

in the armed forces and their families. In 1978, Zachary founded the Intrepid Museum Foundation to save a historic and battle-scarred aircraft carrier, the Intrepid, from the scrap yard. Four years later, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum opened. Since then, the Foundation has sponsored thousands of school children and offered programs that focus on social studies, history, space science, water science and aviation science. So, next time you visit the Big Apple, don’t miss the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. To learn more about the museum’s many programs, events and contributions to our country, visit www.intrepidmuseum.org.

HOLDINGS AND JACK TAYLOR REACH OUT TO SUPPORT MILITARY Enterprise Holdings founder Jack C. Taylor and his family are giving back to the military and Veterans’ community in a very big way. Enterprise Holding Foundation and Mr. Taylor’s recent major contributions to Fisher House Foundation will help build five new Fisher Houses in communities across the country. “We’ve been privileged to form lasting partnerships with fabulous institutions that contribute so much to the quality of life in our community,” said Jo Ann Taylor 8

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Kindle, Jack Taylor’s daughter and president of the Enterprise Holdings Foundation. “This is a way for our family to reinforce those partnerships and strengthen those institutions for many years to come.” In 1957, Taylor founded Enterprise Holdings in Clayton, MO. He named the company after the USS Enterprise, an aircraft carrier he served on when he was in the Navy. In the following decades, he grew his tiny start up into the world’s largest car rental company.

“This is an honor for Fisher House,” said Ken Fisher, Chairman & CEO, Fisher House Foundation. “We will use this very generous donation to continue our work of serving military, Veterans and their families. We are truly blessed and see this gesture as a way of saying thank you to those who have given this country so much.”

Heart Behind the House INTERIOR DESIGNER BEVERLY ARCHER-MIEARS & FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION TRUSTEE, JOHN LOWE Stories by Kerri Childress

In honor of our 25th Anniversary, throughout the year we have been featuring stories of people who have helped build, support, or benefit from the Fisher House program. Two of these people have been with the Foundation for years, supporting military families in their own unique way. We feature their stories below, but please visit www.fisherhouse.org to read other inspiring stories. BEVERLY ARCHER-MIEARS

When it comes to building and opening a Fisher House, there are hundreds of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the dream come true. One of those people is interior designer Beverly Archer-Miears. A native Texan, Beverly started working with the Fisher family in 2000, when she did the interior design for the Borda Center for Children with Special Needs at Lackland Air Force Base, TX. Her first Fisher House was at Landsthul, Germany in 2001. Since then, Beverly has been the interior designer for over 30 Fisher Houses across the country.

She also is careful to take into account where the home is located. For example, when designing the interior for the Portland, Oregon, home, which Beverly is doing now, she is using warm colors — greens and blues — to offset the many rainy, gray days. On the other hand, when deciding about the San Diego Fisher House, she went with monochromatic colors, because the sun always shines there. “Most importantly, I never forget who will be staying in these homes. I am so privileged to be part of a team that is making a difference in people’s lives not just today, but for decades to come.” JOHN LOWE

John Lowe has been a member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees since its inception.

John has been to well over a dozen Fisher House openings, but the one he’s most proud of is the dedication of the Fisher House in Landsthul, Germany. Talk of a home at Landstuhl started before the war in Iraq. John endeavored to convince those who were tentative about building a home outside the United States that this would be necessary in the very near future. History has proved him right, and we have since built a second home there. Throughout the decades that John has been on the Board of Trustees, he has served on the Audit Committee and the Executive Committee. His sage advice has played an important role in bringing Fisher House to where it is today.

“It has been a privilege for me to serve “It is truly a labor of love,” said Beverly. “But alongside such a great team as Fisher House that’s not to say it’s easy by any means. Every Foundation,” said John. “Zachary was a house is different, and even the rooms within prince of a man, but Ken’s passion and caring the homes are different — no two bedrooms for the families of our military and Veterans “I knew and worked are the same. I carefully research and select is contagious. I’m proud to be part of not with three generations of Fishers — Zachary, only the Foundation’s past, but of its next 25 color and texture, from the walls and artwork Arnold and his brother Tony, and now Ken,” to accents and draperies.” years, too.” said John who is also the President and CEO It takes Beverly up to six months to of the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the research, select and complete the mounds of Advancement of Military Medicine. “Zachary paperwork involved in designing for a home was the impetus behind Fisher Houses, no with up to 21 bedrooms and baths. It doesn’t doubt, but Ken has picked up the sword and just fall into place, Beverly laughingly warns. carried it well.” THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Albany, NY

FISHER HOUSE

History

STARTED IN ALBANY, NY, FOR VA

Photos and story by Kerri Childress

Twenty two years ago, a young nurse at the VA hospital in Albany, NY, wrote a letter to Zachary Fisher explaining that many of the Veterans who were treated at the hospital had to travel hundreds of miles for their care. Once here, their families had a choice: high hotel bills or sleep in their cars. Would Zachary build a Fisher House at a VA hospital, asked Joanne Saulsberry. Zachary wasted no time. Within the year, the house was built — the first Fisher House for VA — and Joanne was made the manager. Not to let a celebration opportunity pass, the Stratton VA Medical Center commemorated its 20th Anniversary on June 25, 2015. Guests from the house, Fisher House volunteers, VA staff and VIPs from the state and federal governments attended the event. “Albany VA is a center of excellence for cancer care,” said Michael Fitzpatrick, who recently took over as manager of the Fisher House. “Many of these Veterans are here for six to eight weeks and need their families with them. Without a Fisher House, I just can’t imagine where they would stay.” Betse Cullen, a retired VA radiation therapy nurse, agreed completely. “Our patients had a much easier treatment period if their families were nearby,” she said. “You just can’t imagine what it means to someone who has been in the hospital for weeks to be able to come over to the Fisher House and get a home cooked

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meal. It improved their morale more than you could know.” Betse now volunteers at the Fisher House with another retired VA nurse, Mary Ellen Rafferty. Since the home opened, more than 5,000 Veteran and military families have called the Fisher House home. One of them is Jonathan Warren, a young man from Tampa, FL, who flew to Albany to be with his mom and grandfather. “My dad is a Korean War Veteran and a hero to our family,” said Jonathan. “If I hadn’t had the Fisher House, I could not have been here for him or my mom.” Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation, summed it up nicely, “Throughout the history of Fisher House, there are many great examples of a good idea flourishing to new life,” he said. “This particular Fisher House is a prime example. Two decades ago, it was brought to Zach’s attention that the VA medical centers needed the support as much as military hospitals. Indeed, perhaps even more so, as care was focused primarily on the patient and not their family. Of course, once Zach was aware of a need, it was a foregone conclusion that he would help.”

Fisher House 25th Anniversary Acknowledgements CONGRATULATIONS FROM GEORGE W. BUSH

CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE PRESIDENT August 26, 2015 I am pleased to send my warmest congratulations to Fisher House Foundation on your 25th anniversary. Throughout our Nation's history, proud patriots have stepped forward to defend our country and the ideals for which we stand. When the courageous members of our Armed Forces answer the call to serve, their families-the force behind the force-accept a different kind of call: to stand with their loved ones in steadfast support while they fight and sacrifice for a freer, safer world. After our heroes return home, we have a sacred obligation to serve them as well as they have served us. For 25 years, Fisher House Foundation has helped uphold this promise by extending comfort and security to hundreds of thousands of families while our wounded warriors receive essential medical care. By offering the security of lodging, logistics, and muchneeded peace of mind, you make it possible for them to focus on what matters most-being fully present for their loved ones during their time of greatest need. Thank you for everything you do to lift up the lives of those who have given so much for us all. As you reflect on a quarter-century of generosity and commitment to America's service members, veterans, and military families, Michelle and I extend our deepest gratitude to Fisher House Foundation. You have our best wishes for the years to come. — Barack Obama

Zachary had the support of several presidents — certainly considered a friend to many of them, including George H. W. Bush. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Be A Hero to a Hero. Donate Your Miles Today. Through generous donations of frequent flyer miles, Fisher House Foundation’s Hero Miles program has provided thousands of flights to wounded, injured and ill service members and their families. Please donate your airline miles today — and make a difference in the lives of our military families when they need it most. For more information, visit www.fisherhouse.org.

Treatment for Trey Trey is a little boy who has been receiving cancer treatment in Seattle. His dad, who is active duty, and his mom have benefited from our Hero Programs, which have made it possible for them to be at the bedside of their son during his recovery. It is thanks to the generous American public, through their airline and hotel point donations, that we can unite families like Trey’s during the most difficult times.

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TEAM FISHER HOUSE Age is just a number 75-year-old military brat Ron Byrd registered to run the 2015 Marine Corps Marathon with Team Fisher House. He explains why he’s chosen our organization to support: "Your mission and your ratings as a very well run charity. Also, I will be 75 for this marathon and my Dad, a Navy Veteran of WWII will be 100. The MCM will be a celebration of our birthdays and those who have sacrificed to keep this country great."

Ringing More Cowbell Prize In 2014, Team Fisher House introduced a new award to honor runners who raise the most awareness for the Foundation by having the highest number of individual donors to their campaign. There are five Cowbell Prizes awarded at the Army Ten-Miler and Marine Corps Marathon to the top five awareness raisers. During the Army Ten-Miler last year, we honored Jaime Gallagher, pictured, as a prize winner. Not pictured, is Debra Kubincanek who won the #1 Cowbell for having over 90 donors support her. Congratulations to our prize winners for “ringing more cowbell” for Fisher House!

Dear Diary, Entries from Fisher House Guests

t suite are journals filled with Within each Fisher House gues s, or a loved one, encouraging word entries containing stories of family next the by read be can s word e just a simple thank you. Thes , we Here . them find peace and hope staying in that room,and help lies. fami ten by our share a few of these words, writ funds I the wonderful staff!! With low Thank you Fisher House and parents so they could my e hous to g goin was I re didn’t know whe e cancer. Thanks to the Fisher Hous be here for me while I fought ort me. The staff were supp and here stay to able my parents were Your g as comfortable as possible. kind and tried to make everythin . otten forg be kindness will not

God bless all of you! Semper Fi!

Dearest Holly and Staff,

life’s stormy n, for such a beautiful oasis in Thank you with all my heart, agai g runs so smoothly ythin ever as g agin man of sea. You do an excellent job t will become tired, teary and wondering wha and stays so well kept. When instant caring friends with e hous tiful beau this of your loved one, entering could not be equaled. a wonderful sanctuary! Thank you all for providing such Love,

D.D.

at the Travis ion for all you’ve done for us We wish to express our appreciat like to also We’d us. to ful help so kind and Fisher House. You have been brought the food for us. and ided prov ’ve who en thank all the men and wom entire Fisher ess how thankful we are to the We’d also, of course, like to expr derful won the all e they provided for us and family for this wonderful hom and beautiful furnishings.

here and a hale Again, we’d like to say thanks to all involved and hearty “Bravo” to each and all. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

COVER STORY

FISHER HOUSE WAS A REFUGE for Army Couple Struggling to Have a Family

Story by Kerri Childress Photos by Craig Orsini

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Canndice and Frank had first learned about Fisher House when Canndice was hospitalized after losing her daughter during her second pregnancy before the twins were born. Frank was on deployment to Cuba so her mother, Roxanne Brown, flew from “It’s hard to believe,” said Army SSgt. Frank Kansas to be with her. Wooten, the boys’ father, “but Brayden’s legs were smaller than my little finger. Their eyes “When I got the call, all I knew was I had to get to Ft. Hood, I didn’t know where I was were not even open yet.” going to stay,” said Brown. “I thought, oh To illustrate just how tiny they were, Army my goodness, just get me to my daughter. Capt. Canndice Wooten, the boys’ mother, Canndice had lost a son earlier that year and brought out a diaper like the ones they used now a daughter. Canndice was heartbroken, in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). and we almost lost her, too.” The hospital staff It wasn’t much bigger than a book of matches– recommended Roxanne stay at the nearby it wouldn’t have fit a doll. Even then it was too Fisher House. big for Brayden. “I soon learned the Fisher House was a place The twins were born January 26, 2011, of healing, a place where I could get a good and for the next 4½ months, Frank and night’s sleep and then just walk across the When Brayden and Deklin were born they weighed 2 ½ pounds — combined. In fact, the doctors weighed them in grams on day two: Brayden at just 400 grams and Deklin only a little bit heavier.

Canndice lived a daily, and sometimes hourly, emotional roller coaster, never knowing if their boys would survive and then — if they did — would they ever be able to play baseball, read a book or dance? “The doctors warned us from the beginning that we might have to say goodbye, at least to Brayden,” said Canndice. “What helped more than anything was being able to stay at the Fisher House. Having other people to talk to. We were all struggling. One person had cancer, one had hepatitis, and another had a baby in NICU like us. It didn’t matter, we were there for each other. I can’t tell you what that means – to know you are not alone.” The Army had given both Canndice and Frank compassionate reassignments to Ft. Hood, the closest Army base to Lackland Air Force Base, where the boys were hospitalized. The Fisher House was their home and their refuge, allowing them to be just steps from their babies.

Still, there was something missing. They wanted a child. Even though they had lost two earlier babies at the end of complicated pregnancies, Canndice wanted to give it one more try. This was the last chance and, lo and behold, it was twins. The doctors warned that this pregnancy would be even harder than the earlier ones, but Canndice and Frank were determined to do all they could. “I truly believe it was the miracle of modern medicine that kept my boys alive and the love we felt from our family at the NICU and our family at Fisher House that gave us strength to go on,” said Canndice through fresh tears. “You just can’t imagine how indebted I am to Fisher House, for first giving my mom a home and then giving Frank and me a home at one of the most difficult times in our lives.”

street and be there for my daughter. I didn’t even have to cook, food just showed up. Bless God it was one of the best things ever.”

Now four years old, Deklin and Brayden are energetic and loving. They are obviously close and what one does, the other follows. Besides When Canndice woke up, she asked her mom being born tiny and fragile, they came into the how she got there because she knew her mom world with no hair at all, but their eyelashes didn’t drive. She was confused and concerned. now would be the envy of Cover Girl models. “My mom said, ‘Don’t worry. I can walk here. Deklin will tell you his favorite thing to do is I’m staying at Fisher House.’ It was the first to read a book. Turn on music and both of time I’d ever heard Fisher House, but I knew them begin dancing and laughing with glee. it was a good thing.” Deklin, who has a mild case of cerebral palsy, Currently stationed at Ft. Campbell, still wears leg braces half a day, but they don’t Canndice and Frank were married in 2003. keep him from a rousing game of soccer with Their outstanding military careers include his brother or jumping on the trampoline. In both being selected as Soldier of the Year at Ft. other words, Brayden and Deklin are thriving, Hood, as well as both holding the Sgt. Audie active, vibrant little boys. Determination, the Murphy award — a distinguished career miracle of modern medicine, and the love of award few soldiers ever receive. Frank served their NICU and Fisher House families, have in combat in Iraq in 2004, while Canndice all coalesced to help create a happy, delightful was stationed in Honduras, and there were American family. numerous other deployments.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

The Houses that Zach Built A son of immigrants, Zachary Fisher started with little but America’s promise of opportunity. At 16, he left school to enter the family trade as a bricklayer. Propelled by decades of hard work, Zachary, along with his brothers, eventually became one of the most prominent developers of the New York City skyline. Along the way, a job-site injury prevented him from serving in World War II. So Zachary instead leveraged his construction experience to build coastal fortifications with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 1945, he married his dear wife, Elizabeth, who had supported the war effort in her own way: performing for the troops in Italy with the USO. Over the years, the couple supported many and varied philanthropic causes, but the U.S. military was never far from their thoughts. “What all this represents is our compassion and caring for the military and for what they have done for the United States over its 217-year history,” Zachary said.

“The military men and women and their commitment to excellence is what keeps us, as Americans, free. We owe them a great deal.” By 1990, already approaching 80 years old, Zachary learned from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Carlisle Trost of a critical unmet need: temporary housing for military families while a loved one is in the hospital. The admiral’s wife, Pauline, had been horrified to find military families sleeping in their cars while their loved ones received treatment. Zachary didn’t hesitate. “I’m a builder; I have my own architect. We can do this!” he said. And so began a remarkable partnership that blossomed from opening two Fisher Houses at Walter Reed and Bethesda Naval hospitals to 22 houses across the country.

Elizabeth and Zachary Fisher

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The Houses that Ken Built Fisher House Foundation has grown by leaps and bounds since Zachary envisioned the first house. Since 2003, Ken Fisher, Zachary’s grandnephew, has been at the helm of a growing enterprise. It was under Ken’s leadership that the network grew to 65 homes. The Foundation also began filling other needs of service members, Veterans and their families. The Hero Miles program was established in 2004 and has provided more than 58,000 free airline tickets. Nearly $17 million in scholarships have been awarded. “Looking back in time and then looking forward, why we do this is just as important as how,” said Ken. “We understand that behind every wounded, injured or ill service member or Veteran is a family - a family that helps to bear a variety of burdens and continues to make vital sacrifices out of the public eye. It is a testament to my uncle that the Fisher House program was conceived during peacetime, and that its existence is never more valuable than during wartime.”

Of course Fisher House Foundation didn’t do it alone. Hundreds of thousands of Americans contributed to making these dreams possible. It demonstrates that Americans care enough to offer more than millions of dollars and frequent flyer miles. They have also donated hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours, providing love, care and appreciation. “For Tammy and me, our Fisher House journey began as a desire to continue Uncle Zach’s legacy – but quickly evolved into our passion – a passion to not just build our program, but to improve the quality of life for every Veteran. Zach’s inspiration and leadership continues to show us what is most right about Americans,” Ken continued. “We are proud to follow in his footsteps and continue to honor those who have given our country so much. Here’s to the next quarter century of Fisher House.”

Tammy and Ken Fisher

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Fisher House at 25 – Because a F Story by Leslie Happ

The Foundations Fisher House

Just as Fisher Brothers, the construction/ development company founded by Zachary and his brothers, became a family enterprise, so too, did the Fisher family embrace Fisher House Foundation.

By 1995, there were 23 Fisher Houses in operation. With the network of houses steadily growing, a structure was needed. House managers formed an association so they could help and learn from one another. Individual houses cultivated local support groups from within their communities. Fisher House Foundation was established in 1993 to ensure the program grew in the most optimum way possible. In 1994, the first VA Fisher House was built in Albany, NY. Even in the final months of his life, Zachary Fisher was instrumental in charting the future for Fisher House Foundation. For some time, the Foundation had debated the merits of building a Fisher House at Landstuhl

Regional Medical Center in Germany. Landstuhl is the largest military hospital outside of the United States, and the only major US military medical center in the European theater. “There was a lot of hesitancy to building on foreign soil,” recalls Fisher House Vice President Jim Weiskopf. “Secretary of the Army [Louis] Caldera wrote a very impassioned letter to Zach; it was read to him when he was in the hospital, and his guidance was just, ‘Let’s do it.’ And that was our signal that we could proceed.” It was a prescient decision: two years later, the 9/11 terrorist attacks precipitated Operation Enduring Freedom. Landstuhl would come to play an increasingly critical role in treating US troops severely injured

A Fisher House Timeline: Notable Dates and Accom 1991 First two Fisher Houses open at Bethesda Naval Medical Center and Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

1990 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher ask Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Carlisle Trost how they can support families of service members with lodging at medical centers. 18

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1993 Fisher House Foundation established in support of the Fisher House program.

1995 Five years, a total of 23 Fisher Houses are in operation. First VA Fisher House is dedicated in Albany, NY

1992 Fisher House Managers’ Association established and begins annual meetings. First Air Force Fisher House opens at Lackland Air Force Base.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Family’s Love Is Good Medicine C

in Afghanistan, and later, Iraq. In fact, in ontinuing the egacy 2001, Fisher House Foundation began construction of a second house at Landstuhl. The first casualties of the War on Terror arrived in 2001 and the number increased When Zachary died in 1999, the program felt dramatically with the invasion of Iraq two his loss deeply. “When Zachary passed away, years later. I’ll never forget where I was when I got the call,” said Janet Grampp, one of the earliest “War redefined everything — everything we Fisher House managers and currently the had known as Fisher House managers,” recalls manager at Andrews Air Force Base. “Our Vivian Wilson, manager at the Walter Reed hearts were broken and we immediately Fisher Houses from 1991 to 2006. “We had started wondering, worrying, ‘What’s going to redefine how we were going to use Fisher to happen now—this was Zachary’s dream.” Houses and did not want to exclude the The anxiety was for naught. “That family never faltered; never missed a step,” Grampp says. “They’ve taken the program to where I never could have imagined. We owe a great debt to the whole Fisher family for continuing it. It speaks volumes about the kind of family they are. They are patriots.”

families we had served for so long.”

By the mid-2000s, wounded soldiers were pouring into Walter Reed Army Medical Center at a rate of almost 1,000 a month. In 2004, a third Fisher House was dedicated at Walter Reed. Fortunately, the American public was becoming increasingly aware of the Fisher House program, and donations were surging.

Young spouses were often unfamiliar with the military system, and the service organizations In 2005, the largest Fisher House ever built, that eventually grew up to support wounded with 21 guest suites, opened at the Michael warriors did not exist. E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas . Four Polytrauma Centers were opened And so, over the years, Fisher Houses have at VA hospitals in Tampa, Palo Alto, Richmond adapted as the profile of their guests has and Milwaukee. Fisher House Foundation changed. Playgrounds were added. Hallways ensured each had a 21-guest home. Three were widened and bathrooms became roll- houses were slated to be built in Bethesda at in to accommodate wheelchairs. Nearly the newly expanded and rechristened Walter all two-story houses built since 2005 Reed National Military Medical Center to include an elevator. replace those at the old Walter Reed.

mplishments (1990 – 2015) 1997 Fisher Houses have now offered 500,000 days of lodging.

1999 Zachary Fisher passes away and nephew Arnold Fisher becomes chairman of Fisher House Foundation.

1998 Responsibility for building new Fisher Houses transfers from Zachary Fisher to Fisher House Foundation.

2001 Scholarships for Military Children program begins. First Fisher House built outside of US opens in Landstuhl, Germany.

2000 Newman’s Own Awards program begins to recognize military volunteer and nonprofit groups.

2003 Ken Fisher succeeds his father Arnold as chairman of the Foundation. Fisher House Ambassador Program debuts.

2002 There are 30 houses in operation: More than 40,000 families have been assisted.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

As the casualties of the ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan increased, the need for a different kind of Fisher House became sadly apparent. Alerted to the situation, Fisher House Foundation Chairman Ken Fisher made the Dover Families of the Fallen Fisher House a top priority. “We didn’t want another day to go by without these families having a place to grieve,” he said. In less than seven months, the home was completed and dedicated in 2011.

troops when it became apparent that they might be delayed. In a way, it brought the story of the Fisher House Foundation full circle: it was Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher who stepped up, beginning in 1983 with the bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, to provide thousands of dollars to each family of a fallen service member — a gesture they continued until the government assumed that responsibility.

Other programs, like Hero Miles and Hotels “It’s been 25 years of growth and change,” said for Heroes were established to augment Ken Fisher, chairman and CEO of Fisher services. Hero Miles accepts unused frequent House Foundation. “But throughout it all, flyer miles donated by Americans, which are we have never lost sight of who we serve converted into round-trip airline tickets for or why we serve.” wounded, injured and ill service members and/or their families, so that they can be together during the healing process and for special events. Flexibility is key to the Foundation’s work. During the US government shutdown in 2013, for example, the Foundation stepped up to offer to cover death benefits for fallen

2005 President George H.W. Bush dedicates first of the newly designed 21-suite Fisher Houses in Houston.

2004 Hero Miles Program begins. Annual Fisher House Golf Classic debuts.

2006 Team Fisher House, an online fundraising community, is established and fields a running team at the Marine Corps Marathon.

2007 Two 21-suite Fisher Houses and the Center for the Intrepid open at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio.

2008 Foundation fulfills goal of constructing a house at level-one VA Polytrauma Centers. Receives an A+ rating from the American Institute of Philanthropy.

2010 In the program’s 20th year, there are 48 houses, with more than 3.5 million days of lodging offered. President Obama donates $250,000 from his Nobel Prize honorarium to Fisher House Foundation. More than 20,000 Hero Miles airplane tickets provided to service members and their families.

2011 Dover Fisher House for Families of the Fallen is built and dedicated. First Marine Corps Fisher House dedicated at Camp Lejeune. Heroes’ Legacy Scholarships program begins.

Passion W T D

for The mission of Fisher House has inspired loyalty and dedication among those connected with it. David Coker, hired in 1994 as the first employee of the Fisher House Foundation, remains today as president. He first became acquainted with the program while still on active duty at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, CO. “As the house at Fitzsimons was being built, I watched it go up,” he recalled. “I couldn’t help but be impressed.” Coker remembered his own family situation, years earlier, when his mother was diagnosed with cancer. His father, after a long Army career, had a powerful friend at Walter Reed

hat

hey

Army Medical Center, where his wife would a 2011 interview with The Frederick Newsbe treated. Commanding General Lewis Post newspaper. Mologne insisted that he stay with his wife and him. “I think Fisher House offers the same opportunity,” Coker said, “but you don’t have to know the general.” Coker’s wife, Jami, volunteered to serve as the Fitzsimons Fisher House manager, and Coker himself started a local nonprofit to support the house. When the position at the Fisher House Foundation became available, Coker applied. “I figured I could either be a cog in the big green machine or working with Fisher House and really have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others," he said in

2012 Ken Fisher receives the Medal for Distinguished Public Service, the Department of Defense’s highest award for public service. Foundation sponsors the Warrior Games and begins the Family Program. Hotels for Heroes kicks off.

2014 The Foundation is the sole American sponsor of Britain’s Invictus Games and runs the US Family program. Hero Miles books its 50,000th ticket.

2013 The Foundation offers to cover the death benefits for fallen troops during the government shutdown. Savings to families in lodging and transportation costs exceeds $200 million and 60 Fisher Houses offer 5 million nights of lodging. Fisher House UK opens in Birmingham, UK.

2015 Fisher House celebrates 25 years of service and opens its 65th Fisher House. It is the 11th year in a row the Foundation receives a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. More than $282 million are saved by more than 250,000 families. More than 5.8 million nights of lodging have been offered. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Fisher House Program Commemorates 25 Years of Service Fisher House Foundation’s 25th Anniversary commemoration culminated with a celebration in Washington, DC, September 16. It was the perfect opportunity to say thank you to hundreds of families, staff, donors, and supporters — people who have helped to bring the Fisher House program to this tremendous milestone. “My message to all of you here tonight is simply this: Thank you,” said Ken Fisher in his remarks to the gathering. “You have Tammy’s and my heartfelt gratitude for the great and small things each of you do — day in and day out — to support our military, Veterans and their families in their greatest time of need.”

What touched the heart of most was the video testimonials from families and Veterans and the presentation by Dale Beatty and his wife Belinda, who stayed at a Fisher House following an IED Explosion in Iraq that resulted in Dale losing both of his legs. “To Dale and other families here today and around the world, know that we have your backs. That the nation is there for you. That your sacrifice will never be ignored. That your wounds — whether mental or physical will be our first priority. And that the obligation your nation owes you will be met efficiently, respectfully and fully. Today and into the future,” said Ken Fisher.

Other key speakers were The Honorable Ashton Carter, Secretary of Defense, and the Honorable Sloane Gibson, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Kyra Phillips, award-winning CNN correspondent, was the mistress of ceremonies.

Top Left Photo: The 25th Anniversary Gala stage Top Middle Photo: Fisher House Foundation trustee and wounded warrior Dale Beatty speaks to the audience about what it meant to have family by his side during his recovery. His wife Belinda also spoke to the crowd about being able to support Dale, steps away from the hospital. Top Right Photo: General John M. Paxton, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, meets Korean War Marine Joseph Krebs. Bottom Photo: Fisher House’s Celebratory Gala was made even more special by the Fisher House families who joined us for the occasion, pictured here with Ken and Tammy Fisher.

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Anniversary Campaign Sponsors PRESIDENTIAL SPONSOR

Fisher Brothers • United Health Foundation PLATINUM SPONSOR

Deloitte, LLP • Delta Air Lines • Fisher House of Boston, Inc. La Quinta Inns & Suites • Samsung • United Airlines • USAA & USAA Foundation Walmart • Wireless Advocates, LLC TITLE SPONSOR The Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. • Ken James SAP • United Technologies Corporation GOLD SPONSOR Finmeccanica • The Grainger Foundation Nancy Edelman • Tennessee Fisher House, Inc. • United Concordia Dental PATRIOT SPONSOR Axiom Resource Management, Inc. • DELTA Resources, Inc. • Don Schaaf + Friends, Inc. • Gainesville Fisher House, Inc. • GEICO Greater LA Fisher House Foundation • Joint Base Andrews Fisher House, Inc. • L-3 Communications Corporation • Metric Corporation • Oshkosh Corporation Systems Made Simple, A Lockheed Martin Company • Superfeet Worldwide, Inc. • Tee It Up For the Troops, Inc. • TriWest Healthcare Alliance INTREPID SPONSOR Abt Associates, Inc • CACI, Inc. • CNN • Carahsoft Technology Corporation • Cushman & Wakefield • Divot Charities Enterprise-Rent-A-Car • FLIR Systems, Inc. • Michael & Barbara Gentry • Greehey Family Foundation The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine • IBC, a DBS Company • The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation MetLife • Michael & Christine Natale • West Palm Beach Friends of Fisher House, Inc.

EAGLE SPONSOR 3M Defense / 3M, Community Giving • Advantaged Solutions • AECOM • BackOffice Associates, LLC • Mr. & Mrs. Stanley O. Benning • BITS, Inc. Charleston Fisher House • Chemring North America • Constellix • Elbit Systems of America Forensic Drug & Alcohol Testing, LLC • GE Aviation • Goodrich Family Fund • Rich & Denise Gustafson HMS Technologies, Inc • Harris IT Services • ITility • Kearney & Company • Knight Point Systems, LLC • John & Marilyn Lowe Memorial Bracelets • NetApp • PCI Strategic Management, Inc • Passport Auto Group • Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Popovich • Riverbank Associates, LLC Ruffalo and Associates, LLC • SAP NS2 • SES Government Solutions • Sightline Media Group • The Mathis Harple Group • Trijicon ULTRA Lifestyle • Washington Alliance Group, Inc. • Websense

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

New FISHER HOUSE PROGRAMS

Special Donor Recognition In honor of our 25th Anniversary, Fisher House Foundation has introduced two new programs to recognize and acknowledge our supporters who help expand programs to service members, Veterans, and their families and continue the Fisher family legacy.

Elizabeth's Circle Individuals and organizations who make an annual gift in the amount of $25,000 or more will be included in Elizabeth’s Circle and recognized on the donor list. Elizabeth and Zachary Fisher are the founders of the Fisher House program. Elizabeth and Zachary personally funded more than 20 of the first Fisher Houses. Like Zachary, Elizabeth was devoted to the U.S. Armed Forces and considered the men and women who served part of her extended family.

Zach's Club Individuals who make a monthly donation will be included in Zach’s Club, named after Fisher House founder Zachary Fisher. A son of immigrants, Zach started with little but America’s promise of opportunity. Through decades of hard work, he was able to personally fund the first 20 plus Fisher Houses. The Fisher House concept was developed in time of peace, but the program has been proven to be invaluable in time of war.

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25th Anniversary Commemoration Wreath Laying Ceremony A wreath was laid at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery to commemorate Fisher House’s 25th Anniversary. Laying the wreath were the two longest serving Fisher House Managers, Vivian Wilson and Inge Godfrey, the President of Fisher House Foundation, and first employee, Dave Coker. More than 50 Fisher House managers and support staff watched the ceremony which, for some, brought tears.

Meet the Manager

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

Vivian Wilson,

Landstuhl, Germany Fisher House

“I’m grateful for having the opportunity so long ago to join an incredible team and for the rich experience Fisher House has brought me.” Vivian Wilson began her career with the Fisher House program in 1991, when the first Fisher House opened at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. She managed the three houses that were eventually built there before moving to the Fort Campbell Fisher House in Kentucky in 2006, and eventually settling at her current location as manager of the Fisher Houses in Landstuhl, Germany, where she’s been since 2009. Although Vivian visited Landstuhl in 1999, it was nearly 10 years before she would go there permanently — something she knew happened for a reason. “Had I come to Landstuhl during my site visit, I would have never experienced the war population at Walter Reed,” Vivian explained. “Now coming to Germany after experiencing wartime efforts in 2001 and learning all the things I did, I could take the anxiety off these families who weren’t familiar with the military. I honed my skills at Walter Reed to prepare me for this.” “There was no precedent for this. There was no template we could follow. We all stood up together and learned how to take care of these families,” she continued. Having worked at several Fisher House locations and being with the Fisher House program since the beginning, Vivian does a wonderful job providing comfort and guidance to the families that come to Landstuhl under dire circumstances. She is able to give them information on how to take care of their loved one and themselves. Vivian learned a long time ago that out of something horrific, something emerges that is good. “You meet people at their worst of times and they rise above it. When people are faced at the worst of times, you see the best in people and that’s what we have the

pleasure of seeing every day. Really, the best in people; pulling themselves up and having to do what they have to do with the utmost integrity and pride. It’s amazing.” Vivian’s dedication to serve military families is very similar to Fisher House founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, of whom Vivian had the good fortune of knowing. Vivian fondly recalls how much pride they had in the program, and how incredibly considerate they were to all the Fisher House managers. “Zachary Fisher was a kind and thoughtful man,” Vivian started. “When we first opened the Fisher House, he called weekly to find out if there was anything that was needed and wanted to know what the families thought of the house. I had never met anyone like that who had so much influence and power and was so thoughtful, loving and generous.” As Vivian reflects on the Foundation’s 25th Anniversary, she knows that Zachary and Elizabeth would have been filled with pride to know the legacy they left behind has helped so many military families, and inspired us all. “Zachary taught me very early in my career that one person can make a difference.”

Fisher House Foundation thanks Vivian and all of our Fisher House managers who take exceptional care of our military families.

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25 ANNIVERSARY th

GOLF CLASSIC

Story and Photos by Kerri Childress

The 25th Anniversary Fisher House Golf Classic was by all accounts a perfect day — flawless weather, great food and drink, wonderful presentations and the golf just couldn't be beat. Our generous sponsors make it all possible. Special thanks to the tournament Founding Sponsor, SAP; Title Sponsor, United Technologies; and the Official Airline Sponsor, United Airlines. Twelve wounded warriors and four Medal of Honor recipients joined more than 200 corporate VIPs for 18 holes of golf at the Lansdowne Golf Resort in Virginia last spring. CNN's Kyra Phillips and Jim Acosta emceed the evening events, including a live auction. Admiral James Winnefeld, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was the principal speaker. “Our military families are the backbone of our fighting forces,” said Admiral Winnefeld. “No one understands that better than Fisher House Foundation. Ken Fisher, like his great uncle Zachary Fisher, has done more for military and Veterans’ families than many of us realize, and they couldn’t have done that without the support of many of you here today.”

RAISING FUNDS IN NEW JERSEY Families of our staff members even get involved in fundraising for the Foundation! Our military race fundraising coordinator for Team Fisher House, Stacy Toner, attended a golf fundraiser her Aunt Darlene Kudla held in honor of Fisher House Foundation. The New Jersey tournament raised funds and awareness for our Fisher House programs.

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Food was plentiful — sponsors like PF Chang, Rocklands BBQ, District Taco and Vienna Inn set up stands on the course. Each player was given a gourmet bag lunch, and all this was followed by a full course dinner. No one left hungry. It was a day full of eagles, birdies, pars, and bogeys (as well as holes we won't talk about) that was enjoyed by all.

2015

FISHER HOUSE VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Fisher Houses around the world are able to go above and beyond to support military and Veteran families. Of course, they can’t do this alone — they are fortunate to have the assistance of some amazing volunteers and volunteer groups who are as passionate about our families as we are.

AIR FORCE VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

OVERALL WINNER ARMY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

SENIOR MASTER SERGEANT EVELYN BELL

BARBARA BAGUHN FISHER HOUSE: JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD (JBLM)

FISHER HOUSE: LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE

Barbara Baguhn is an essential leader for the ongoing outreach of JBLM Fisher House. In her seven years since becoming an integral member of the Fisher House volunteer program, she has embraced this role with pride and selfless diligence, working hours outside of her job and often coming in to work events on the weekend. To date, she has contributed a total of 310 volunteer hours to the JBLM Fisher House. As an excellent communicator, she connects the mission and goals of JBLM Fisher House to the military community who may have never heard of the program. Barbara’s passion is undeniable and the staff and fellow volunteers respect and appreciate the work that she does. She is an invaluable volunteer to the organization and she truly loves helping people. Always going above and beyond, she takes time off from her job to help with various duties and tasks. JBLM Fisher House is like a big family, and she is one of those people who make you proud to be part of a mission that aims to support our military families

Senior Master Sergeant Evelyn Bell’s contributions to the community show that she truly lives the Air Force value of “Service Before Self.” She sets the bar high by cooking, cleaning, and gathering sponsors to provide lunches for family members utilizing the Fisher House throughout the year. SMSgt Bell has a major impact on the military and community. She has contributed over 1,763 volunteer hours to the Lackland Fisher House in the past four years. She continues to be an advocate by providing support not only by volunteering herself, but by rallying the troops to help out as well. Her love for the Fisher House is evident in the time and dedication she provides, while still serving full time active duty Air Force as the Deputy Director of IG Complaints Resolution and Investigation.

NAVY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

THE BREAKFAST GROUP

VA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

JAYNE RICKARD

FISHER HOUSE: WALTER REED NATIONAL MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER

FISHER HOUSE: ST. LOUIS

The “Breakfast Group” consists of committed individuals from all walks of life, bonded together towards the cause of serving our wounded service members and their families in their time of need. Most of them are former military officers/enlisted soldiers, some are active or reserve duty military officers/enlisted soldiers, some are civil servants working in the Department of Defense, and some are from the private sector. This group was established by Angela Lee. Angela’s husband is a former Army officer. The Group is led by Eun Lee. They have been preparing and serving breakfast to the Fisher House families for over six years. Their first volunteer visit was in August 2008 at the Fisher Houses of Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Forrest Glen Annex, and they have been consistently serving the Fisher Houses in Bethesda since then. Their generosity of time, talent, and treasure proved vital in helping the Fisher House families feel welcomed and loved, and their impact is measured by the Fisher House families’ warm hugs and smiles.

Jayne Rickard began volunteering at the St. Louis VA Fisher House in February 2014. A typical volunteer week for Jayne consists of about 6 to 10 hours with an estimated 520 total volunteer hours for the year! Her passion for the work done at Fisher House complements what she offers as a volunteer. Jayne came at a crucial and difficult time, using her skills to work with the staff and guests. She comes into the house with a smile, a warm heart, and the zeal to get work done. Jayne is a blessing to the St. Louis VA Fisher House.

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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 Elmendorf AFB, AK Every year, the Alaska Fisher House is blessed with an abundance of wild strawberries in their gardens. They watch as guests and visitors, including the bears, enjoy nature's sweet bounty. Samantha, the manager's daughter, enjoyed the strawberries after a full day of volunteering for mom.

CALIFORNIA

A GREATER LOS ANGELES V HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Los Angeles, CA L&W Supply Corp honored the West LA Fisher House during its first ever golf tournament fundraising event held in the Los Angeles area. The building materials company invited their vendors and sales teams to compete in the event to raise awareness of Fisher House. This was a tremendous effort and an awesome affair. Jeff Sievers, So. California Sales Manager, and Thomas Martin, SoCal outside sales rep, presented a very generous donation to the Fisher House Manager, Sharon Hudson. Thank you L&W Supply for helping us meet the needs.

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER, SAN DIEGO San Diego, CA In June, the University of St. Augustine Students of Occupational Therapy hosted a waffle breakfast for the families. Complete with strawberries, whipped cream and juice, the event was a huge and delicious success.

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DAVID GRANT USAF MEDICAL CENTER Travis AFB, CA The Nutritional Medicine Section at David Grant USAF Medical Center participates in the Travis Fisher House “Gift of a Meal From the Heart Program,” providing a meal one night a month for the 16 guest families at Travis Fisher House II. For their April meal, they prepared a special Easter themed dinner, taking time to add some creative touches. The guests were delighted when they saw the trays of special treats that had been prepared for their enjoyment. Twinkies were hollowed out to look like the body of a car, marshmallows were used for wheels, pretzels were used as steering wheels, and pink and green Peeps were seated inside to drive the vehicles. The extra effort this group put into preparing the meal was much appreciated and brought many smiles to the Travis Fisher House guest families.

CAMP PENDLETON Camp Pendleton, CA Local supporting organizations were welcomed to an open house at the Fisher House, Camp Pendleton on June 23, 2015. These guests included representatives from American Gold Star Mothers, San Diego County Blue Star Mothers, Knights of Columbus, VMW Post Escondido, American Legion Auxiliary, and other local charitable groups. In addition, Kelly Donner, Navy Gold Star Coordinator from Naval Base Coronado was here to support the mission of Navy Fisher House and these organizations. “We know families will prepare meals and a well-stocked kitchen and pantry are a must. Many are given short notice to come and leave home without toiletries. We will donate some of these essential items at this time and volunteer as needs arise. What a blessing this house is to our military families,” said Loretta Cook, President of Blue Star Mothers, San Diego North County Chapter CA9.

F LO R I DA

EGLIN HOSPITAL Eglin AFB, FL In April, the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast began receiving the services of a local landscaping company to spruce up the grounds. The gardens were extended in the front and sides with the addition of liriope plants, pine straw, and several new oak trees were added in the back of the property for additional shade. Evergreens were also planted behind the gazebo to provide shade and privacy for the guests. Studies have shown that nature is therapeutic, as nature increases mental, psychological and even physical development. Improving the landscaping is a step in the right direction to help Fisher House guests on the road to healing.

JAMES A. HALEY VETERANS’ HOSPITAL

was highlighted by a delicious dinner featuring the limited-time-only burgers and side dishes galore. Fisher House families shared their stories with the media, and the occasion was even more special for one family, John and Mimi Treadway and their daughter, Air Force Veteran Renee Whisner. Renee had been involved in a severe automobile accident while studying overseas, resulting in becoming a quadriplegic. This evening was the first time in seven months of rehabilitation that she’d been out of the hospital. The glow on her face and that of her family defined the evening for everyone present, while the entire event brought Fisher House families, patients and corporate sponsors together for a very worthy cause in a most enjoyable way.

MIAMI VA HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Miami, FL Miami Marlins Ayudan (Spanish for “help”) is their front-office volunteer program. The Marlins Ayudan supports the Miami VA Fisher House by regularly preparing meals for Fisher House guests. Marlins Ayudan volunteers prepare the meals from scratch in the Fisher House kitchen while interacting with the guests. The Ayudan volunteers enjoy getting creative with the menus and these “chefs” recently treated the Fisher House guests to authentic Cuban cuisine.

Tampa, FL The Tampa Fisher House was honored to be included in the launch of a national fundraiser sponsored by Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, with the goal of donating $50,000 to Fisher House Foundation. The kick-off event featured tastings of a limited-time-only All-American Burger menu created by their Executive Chef and Army Veteran, Jason Gronlund. Under Jason’s skilled eye, three teams of patients and families competed for the honor of being crowned the fastest “burger wrappers,” a much more challenging task than any of the teams imagined — especially since one team forgot to put the top of the bun on their burger! The fun-filled evening

NORTH FLORIDA/SOUTH GEORGIA VETERANS HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Gainesville, FL The Gainesville VA Fisher House celebrated their one year anniversary in July. Both VA employees and the community were invited to the open house celebration. The Gainesville Fisher House Foundation grilled hot dogs in the home’s outdoor kitchen, with all the food being provided by the Veterans Canteen Service. Three Harley motorcycles were raffled off to benefit the Gainesville VA Fisher House. Thanks to all who came to join in the wonderful celebrations.

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HOUSE ROUND-UP KENTUCKY

BLANCHFIELD ARMY COMMUNITY Fort Campbell, KY

GEORGIA

CHARLIE NORWOOD VA MEDICAL CENTER Augusta, GA In honor of Mother’s Day, the Pin-Up Dolls of Pin-Ups for Heroes, performed WWII era musical tunes for our Fisher House guests inside the Fisher House. This trio consists of a mother, Dixie Scarlett, and her two daughters, Bombshell Bonnie and Rebel Rosie. They helped everyone feel not only patriotic but nostalgic by transporting us back to yesteryear through their rousing, patriotic songs.

ILLINOIS

EDWARD HINES, JR. VA HOSPITAL Hines, IL Hines Fisher House celebrated its 5th Anniversary with an open house on Wednesday, June 3rd. Members of the community, hospital staff, volunteers and supporters were all invited to celebrate this wonderful occasion. The American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Illinois, sponsored the event and provided refreshments for guests who attended. Fisher House volunteers were on hand to provide tours of the house and answer questions. It turned out to be a beautiful day and was attended by approximately 200 people throughout the afternoon. 30

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Fort Campbell recently celebrated their volunteers with a BBQ. Awards were presented and their 2015 Volunteer of the Year was announced — congratulations to Mr. Bruce Hidgon (pictured at right), cartoonist and volunteer extraordinaire. Bruce has been a big hit with guests and visitors at various events by drawing caricatures. He also travels the globe with the USO visiting our deployed troops. We are thankful to have him and all our wonderful volunteers. Photo by Scott Hollingsworth MARYLAND

MALCOLM GROW CLINICS & SURGERY CENTER Andrews AFB, MD Alyssa Marler, an eighth grader from the Langston Charter Middle School in Greenville, SC, organized a drive for her school to collect items to donate to Fisher House at Joint Base Andrews. She was inspired by her aunt and uncle, who both serve on the Board of Directors for JB Andrews Fisher House. Alyssa’s uncle is MSgt Curtis Christian of the 89th Airlift Wing, and her aunt, Nancy Christian, is President of the Board. A special thanks to all the students who participated.

WALTER REED NATIONAL MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER Bethesda, MD Please allow me to express my deep appreciation for the support we received from Fisher House management and staff during our time of crisis at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, at Bethesda, Maryland. Finally, on Good Friday, April 3, 2015, and after a high risk pregnancy, my wife gave birth to a miracle little boy named Jorge Arturo Acosta. We had just lost one of the unborn children but managed to protect the remaining. Baby Jorge Arturo Acosta will be baptized on Sunday, June 14, at 9am, at the Walter Reed Medical Hospital chapel, and we will be honored with your company. Respectfully, Jorge Acosta

Fisher House guests with such an amazing place to play. In August, the Wright-Patt Fisher House had a luncheon and ice cream social for the ribbon cutting and to celebrate 25 years of Fisher Houses, as well as their nonprofit’s 25th Anniversary. Emanuel (pictured) thinks the playground is awesome — and they look forward to many years of children enjoying the grounds!

MISSOURI

VA ST. LOUIS MEDICAL CENTER St. Louis, MO Mr. and Mrs. Hall recently got married at the VA Medical Center Jefferson Barracks hospice unit. Mr. Hall was in the hospice unit at Jefferson Barracks and the one thing he wanted was to marry Sharon Hall. Mr. Hall had not been feeling well the week before their wedding, but he made it through his wedding ceremony and stood throughout the wedding, reciting every vow. They lived their vows together… through sickness and through health.

Pictured are the Main Stage and the Ft. Bragg Fisher House Manager Lori Southerland and the Camp Lejeune Fisher House Manager Josie Callahan.

NORTH CAROLINA

NAVAL HOSPITAL CAMP LEJEUNE Camp Lejeune, NC

N E W YO R K

ALBANY STRATTON VA MEDICAL CENTER Albany, NY The Albany Fisher House has recently celebrated significant milestones. This first ever VA Fisher House welcomed its 5,000th family in April as Thomas and Janet Dunn checked in. In addition, the Albany House located at the Stratton VA, celebrated its 20th year of service with a community event and open house. Milestones and anniversaries such as these allow the Stratton VA Fisher House the opportunity to reflect and give thanks. Thank you to all of those over all the years who have made the Fisher House the special place it is. The strong and enduring partnership between Fisher House Foundation, Stratton VAMC, community volunteers and supporters has created an atmosphere where military families are truly cared for with compassion and excellence.

On May 2nd , the Duplin Winery hosted their 4th Annual Our Main Squeeze Wine and Music Festival at the Duplin Events Center. Proceeds from the event and the sale of the Our Main Squeeze wine went to benefit the Camp Lejeune Fisher House as well as the Ft. Bragg Fisher House. The event raised $10K for each house. This is the second year the proceeds have gone to both Fisher Houses.

OHIO

WRIGHT-PATTERSON MEDICAL CENTER Wright-Patterson AFB, OH

TEXAS

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Fisher House announced the completion of their new 1,500-square-foot playground for the children. Thanks to the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association OH 12-1, the Dayton Foundation, the Fluor Foundation, the Physician’s Charitable Foundation of the Miami Valley, Wright-Patt Credit Union, and all other Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. donors who made this possible. It is because of the generosity of so many people that they were able to provide the children of

CARL R. DARNALL ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Fort Hood, TX Earlier this year, the Fort Hood Fisher House worked with a community group, Red River IT, to work on their home remodel. Red River IT was hosting their annual conference in Austin and wanted to give back to the community. They worked with the Fisher House to coordinate the remodel, which included a group of 115 volunteers. The interior THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

HOUSEROUND-UP of the house was painted, they built a grill area, did yard work and, put furniture together, in addition to many other smaller projects. The Fisher House manager also worked with the Army Fisher House team to coordinate all new flooring and furniture, while also getting the community to submit their favorite black and white photos from the area. On June 17, a grand reopening was held to showcase the beautiful new additions. They welcomed back their partners with Red River, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and had a guest speaker, Brigadier Tim Lai, their British DCS for III Corps, who is familiar with the Fisher House program. Before reopening, the Fort Hood Fisher House also celebrated the Fisher House program’s 25th Anniversary by raising an anniversary flag in honor of the milestone.

WILFORD HALL AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER Lackland AFB, TX On June 10th, the Lackland Fisher Houses were honored to host Texas First Lady, Cecilia Abbott. During her visit she toured the houses, visited with house guests, and made a generous donation. San Antonio is hometown to the First Lady and she holds a special love for our military men and women.

U TA H

SALT LAKE CITY VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Salt Lake City, UT This is one of the most poignant and inspirational memories I have ever

MICHAEL E. DEBAKEY VA MEDICAL CENTER

encountered since we have opened our doors nearly four years ago. We had a

Houston, TX

Medical Center. Unfortunately the Veteran unexpectedly passed away. I received

A milestone was reached on May 25th as the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 521 from Pasadena, TX, served their 100th meal to Fisher House guests. Starting over eight years ago, they have served each and every fourth Tuesday night, missing only twice for weather and torrential rain (Hurricane Ike). Otherwise, the meals continued to come, ranging from BBQ to Italian to Tex-Mex and everything in between. The guests love seeing them each month. Thank you for continuing to care for our families.

Veteran’s wife staying with us since her husband was undergoing surgery at the VA a call from the hospital social worker informing me of what had happened and to tell me his wife, of course, was really struggling. Apparently the wife had contacted another one of our guests that she had met here at Fisher House to let her know what had happened. Well, that other guest went around, knocking on all the bedroom doors and asking each family staying with us to come wait for this woman at the front door. This lady, who left the home that morning with the Veteran by her side, and now returning alone was embraced as she walked in the front door by 19 other families. Standing on the outside watching 19 families swallow her in love and support in a time of such loneliness was one of the most powerful things I have ever witnessed. Even though they did not all know her, they stood and waited for her. They showed her instant compassion as though she was their own family member. Outside these doors she felt alone, but as soon as she walked in to the Fisher House she was no longer alone. I truly believe this is what Fisher House is all about. Witnessing these events is the best part of my job. — Quinn Kiger-Good, Fisher House Manager

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VIRGINIA

UNITED KINGDOM

FORT BELVOIR COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL BIRMINGHAM

Ft. Belvoir, VA

Birmingham, UK

The staff at the Army Hotel at Fort Belvoir has supported the Fisher House in their community since its dedication. From fundraisers, to washing our comforters, adding to our welcome books, providing shuttle service to our guests as well as decorating the exterior of our home for the holidays the staff consistently finds ways to give to our home. To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Fisher House the staff came up with the idea of Fisher House trivia to add to their weekly social. Since the dedication, the staff at the Army Hotel Fort Belvoir has gifted over 700 volunteer hours.

On Saturday, June 20th, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB) Charity held a glamorous ball to mark the second anniversary of Fisher House UK, which opened in June 2013 and has since provided free accommodation to over 600 families of wounded and ill troops and Veterans. The event took place at Warwickshire County Cricket Club in Edgbaston and included a champagne reception, lavish four course meal and the chance to win a new car, kindly donated by Mercedes. Veterans, military personnel and their families packed the room and were joined by 15 local businesses, all of whom helped raise over £30,000, which is enough to provide free accommodations to three families of ill or injured troops for one year. Mike Hammond, QEHB Charity Chief Executive, said, “We are very grateful for the generous support from Fisher House Foundation and Help for Heroes who played a vital role in establishing Fisher House. We are thrilled with the success of the ball and are extremely thankful to everyone who kindly made a donation.”

WA S H I N G T O N

MADIGAN ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA Each year, the wonderful employees of Neiman Marcus help raise money for their local charities. This year, the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Fisher House was fortunate to receive their generosity. When asked why Fisher House was chosen, Neiman Marcus public relations manager Jessica Branning replied, “We chose to support the Fisher House on behalf of William (Tom) Chroniger, who served in the Navy Seabees for 21 years. He learned about the Fisher House from The Patriot Magazine and the Elysian Men's Room Original Red where a portion of the net proceeds goes to helping support the families of our military Vets through the VA Puget Sound Fisher House and [JBLM] Fisher House. We have many employees whose loved ones have served in the military, so this cause is dear to our hearts.”

VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Seattle, WA The Seattle Fisher House has been moving through upgrades and refurbishments. Five new custom made dining chairs that surround our beautiful river rock table were delivered in April and have been a wonderful addition to the space. Also, we have had the carpet replaced in all 20 rooms and will have new mattresses for our guests in August. We’ve had some staff turnover over the last few months, and will be welcoming our new assistant manager and hiring two new housekeepers very soon. The Pacific Northwest has had a warm and beautiful spring and summer, and even Zachary Bear has had time to enjoy it.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

Camp P endleton , CA

Camp Pendleton, CA

DEDICATING THE FISHER HOUSE AT

CAMP PENDLETON Photos by Ashley Estill

On Friday, May 15, Fisher House Foundation, United Health Foundation, and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton dedicated the newest Fisher House. This opening marks the 65th Fisher House to serve military families and their loved ones. The new Fisher House can serve up to eight families per night at the 8,000-plus square foot home, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Thanks to United Health Foundation, and to everyone who helped us cut the ribbon on another beautiful home.

Camp P endleton , CA

, CA Camp Pendleton

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

on, CA t e l d n e amp P

Camp

Pendlet on,

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Thanks to the incredibly kind donation of a two passenger golf cart from the Elks Lodge #2663 Casas Adobes, the Arizona Fisher House will have the ability to transport supplies between the house and the outside storage facility. Joe Miller, Commander, Sons of the American Legion, helped coordinate the donation from Elk member Marv Thompson (featured in the picture with Fisher House Manager Kelly Laurich). This is only one example of the outpouring of community support for the future Arizona Fisher house which is scheduled to open later this year.

West Roxbury, MA

Tucson, AZ

Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System

IN ACTION VA Boston Healthcare System Jen DeLuca, Executive Director of the Fisher House of Boston, met the O'Brien family 16 months ago when Kevin was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. Pictured is Kevin O'Brien, Jen DeLuca and Betty O'Brien (Kevin's mom) who planned to surprise Kevin by having Jen DeLuca attend the Warrior Games, and with the help of the United States Air Force Kevin was surprised. Jen said, "This was the most amazing experience, I feel completely blessed to have been able to surprise Kevin and spend time with some of our amazing heroes!"

Portland, OR Portland VA Medical Center

Long Beach, CA

VA Long Beach Medical Center

West Haven, CT VA Connecticut Healthcare System The Annual “Play for Purpose” 72-hour continuous hockey tournament was held at the Wintergarden Ice Arena in Ridgefield, CT, May 7,th through May 10th. Both men and women hockey players from 16 to 75 years old hit the ice and raised over $30K for Fisher House CT in 2014 and 2015. NY Ranger Alumni came out to show their support for Veterans and military families, and to watch a great sled hockey game between the “NY Rangers and NJ Freeze.” It was fun for the whole family while supporting Connecticut Veterans.

Murfreesboro, TN

California is home to the highest number of Veterans in the entire nation and Fisher House Southern California’s team has been passionately raising funds to build a Fisher House on the grounds of the VA Long Beach Medical Center. Groundbreaking is set to happen this fall. Many community organizations, groups and individuals have worked hard to make this happen. American Gold Star Mothers, Association of the United States Army (AUSA) and the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 291 are among the many groups who have supported the effort with fundraisers — having fun and raising funds at the same time.

The Portland VA Fisher House, which broke ground last September, is scheduled for completion this year. While construction continues, the local community is excited at the progress being made. Community partners have been very supportive and look forward to having a Fisher House in the Portland/Vancouver area. During the month of June, the Military Officers Association of America and Columbia River Chapter, donated interior door plaques, which incorporate the Fisher House logo. This generous gift will contribute to the beautiful "home away from home" environment for families of Veterans and active duty service members.

Tennessee Valley Healthcare System SPC Jason Edens was trained as a mortar specialist and given the nickname “MoneyShot” for his accuracy. In October 2011 he deployed to Afghanistan and in April 2012 Jason was shot when his unit was ambushed by insurgents. James and Jan Edens, Jason’s parents flew to Landsthul Germany and then on to Walter Reed Medical Center to be with their son and in both places stayed at the Fisher House. On April 26, 2012 Jason passed away from his injuries. Last year, as a fitting tribute to their son, James and Jan, along with their many friends, held the first annual Jason Edens Memorial Golf Tournament “MONEYSHOT I.” The proceeds from that tournament were given to the Tennessee Fisher House Foundation to help Veterans and their family members staying at the Tennessee Fisher House. As a thank you to the Edens, the Tennessee Fisher House Foundation presented them with a framed “Hole Flag” from the tournament. Jan is a volunteer with the Tennessee Fisher House Foundation Board and knows first-hand the significance of the Fisher House. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • 2015

FISHER HOUSE DIRECTORY

DOWN

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

Southern Arizona VA Health Care System

VA Long Beach Healthcare System

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 Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center Milwaukee, WI

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VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, CT

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

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

Long Beach, CA

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

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 Naval Hospital Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Building 2014 San Jacinto Rd. Camp Pendleton, CA 92055 (760) 763-5308 Manager: Kiana Bright Kiana.bright@usmc.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

FLORIDA 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 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 North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System 1601 SW Archer Rd. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 548-6492 Manager: Tanya Fookes Tanya.fookes@va.gov

GEORGIA Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center One Freedom Way Augusta, GA 30904 (706) 729-5773 Manager: Anne Arnold anne.arnold@va.gov

* 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.

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

ILLINOIS 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

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

MARYLAND 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 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: Michael Ybarra mybarra@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

PENNSYLVANIA

UTAH

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

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

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

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

MISSOURI

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

TEXAS

Brooke Army Medical Center I,II,III,IV St. Louis VA Medical Center1 Jefferson San Antonio Military Medical Center Barracks Rd. 3623 George C. Beach Dr. St. Louis, MO 63125 Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234 (314) 652-4100 x. 66945 (210) 916-6000 fax: (210) 916-6488 fax: (314) 894-6147 Manager: Inge Godfrey Manager: Vanniecia Brownvanniecia. fhbamc@aol.com brown@va.gov Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Bldg. 36015 Fisher Ln. NEW YORK Fort Hood, TX 78254 Stratton VA Medical Center (254) 286-7927 fax: (254) 286-7929 113 Holland Ave. Manager: Theresa Johnson Albany, NY 12208 theresa.m.johnson2.naf@mail.mil (518) 626-6919 fax: (518) 626-5452 Manager: Michael Fitzpatrick Michael E. DeBakey VA michael.fitzpatrick3@va.gov Medical Center I, II 2002 Holcombe Blvd. NORTH CAROLINA Houston, TX 77030 (713) 794-8095 fax: (713) 794-7194 Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital Manager: Frank Kelley 4 Recovery Way frank.kelley@va.gov Camp Lejeune, NC 28547 (910) 450-3885 fax: (910) 450-3887 VA North Texas Health Care System Manager: Josie Callahan 4500 S. Lancaster Rd. Bldg 79 josephine.f.callahan@usmc.mil Dallas, TX 75216 (214) 857-2574 fax: (214) 462-4923 Womack Army Medical Center Manager: Lydia Henderson 12 Bassett St. lydia.henderson1@va.gov Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000 (910) 432-1486 fax: (910) 432-3825 South Texas Veterans Health Manager: Lorie Southerland Care System fbfisherhouse@aol.com 7485 Wurzbach Road San Antonio, Texas 78229 OHIO (210) 617-5300 x. 16626 Manager: Erik Zielinski Cincinnati VA Medical Center erik.zielinski@va.gov 3200 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45220 Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical (513) 475-6571 fax: (513) 487-6661 Center I, II, III Manager: Karrie Hagan San Antonio Military Medical Center karrie.hagan@va.gov 1445 Foster Ave. Bldg 3865 Lackland AFB, TX 78236 Wright-Patterson Medical Center I, II (210) 671-6037 fax: (210) 671-6020 417 Schlatter Dr. Manager: Sara Richardson-Paniagua Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433 sr-fisherhouse@sbcglobal.net (937) 257-0855 fax: (937) 656-2150 Manager: Karen Healea William Beaumont Army karen.healea@wpafb.af.mil 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

VIRGINIA Fort Belvoir Community Hospital 9201 Woodbury Rd. Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060 (703) 805-5203 Manager: Roxannamaria Calderon belvoirfisherhouse@gmail.com 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 I & II 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 2 • 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.

Fisher House Foundation

CFC Code: 11453