The Patriot Magazine Volume 8 Issue 2 by Fisher House Foundation

2017 VOLUME 8 â&#x20AC;¢ ISSUE 2

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FISHER HOUSE

Friends, Family & Fisher House Help Heather Get Her Life Back

WARRIOR GAMES

DAY IN THE LIFE

Navy Program Support at Warrior Games

Photo Contest Winners

(Story on page 21)

(Story featured on page 10)

www.fisherhouse.org Heather Carter

Air Force Veteran Athlete

ZACHARY FISHER IN THE HALL OF FAME Founder of Fisher House Honored

(Story featured on page 3)

Contents Social Media Support

Zach Fisher Named to Hall of Fame

Guest FamilyProfile: The Menchaca Family

The Huntsman Shootout

Journal Entries

Scholarships for Service

Day in the Life Photo Contest

Meet the Staff

Fisher House Salutes

Medal of Honor Recipients

Hero Miles

Team Fisher House

Cover Story: Heather Carter Gets Her Life Back

Keeping Memories

Cisco Sytems Engineers Help

Hearts in the Community

Warrior Games Family Program

Support from USAA

Meet the Manager

House Round Up

Invictus Games Flag Handover

Dedications & Groundbreakings

Communities in Action

Down Range

FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN AND CEO Kenneth Fisher PRESIDENT David A. Coker CHIEF OF STAFF Mary Considine

About Fisher House Foundation, Inc.

LETTER FROM KEN FISHER Dear Friends,

Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide and in Europe, close to the medical center or hospital it serves. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room and an inviting living room. Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since inception, the program has saved military and veterans’ families an estimated $360+ million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation. Fisher House Foundation also operates the Hero Miles Program, using donated frequent flyer miles to bring family members to the bedside of injured service members, as well as the Hotels for Heroes program using donated hotel points to allow family members to stay at hotels near medical centers without charge. The Foundation also manages a grant program that supports other military charities and scholarship funds for military children, spouses and children of fallen and disabled veterans. Fisher House Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. Donations to Fisher House Foundation or individual Fisher Houses are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law.

At Fisher House Foundation, our magazine, much like the work we do, is about teamwork. The Patriot is created in-house, by our communications staff. Our team of graphic designers at Don Schaaf & Friends in Washington, DC, donates services toward the design of each issue, and our printing partners help ensure we are getting the best rates possible. The Patriot magazine is one of our best resources to educate audiences about the Foundation’s work, and we are proud of the product we create. We are grateful to provide this resource at a very minimal cost thanks to the work of everyone involved. At Fisher House, we always strive to be good stewards of your donation to the Foundation.

Fisher House Program

by the

Numbers

Foundations are being laid and walls are going up all over the country, as we continue to build new Fisher Houses. This year alone, we will finish at least four more homes and break ground on another five. I must admit though, I’m most excited about our first Fisher Houses in New York City, as my family’s roots run deep in the city. It was here — three generations ago — that my great uncle and his two brothers left school so they could work and help support their immigrant parents. These three brothers, whose youth was spent playing in streets in the city, labored together in New York City building a successful construction company and later a real estate empire. Although very different from each other, they understood that it was the family compass that guided them. Family. It was always about family. Perhaps that’s why Zachary Fisher, the youngest of the brothers, understood that one of the best ways to repay our military and veterans was to ensure that their families were cared for and nearby during times of medical hardship.

Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation

Not long ago, we received an email from a gentleman who stayed at the San Diego Fisher House. After talking about how wonderful his stay was, he said, “Fisher Houses do something that doctors cannot — THEY REPAIR THE SPIRIT.” Zachary Fisher and his wife Elizabeth understood that. And my family and I understand that. It always starts and ends with family — because a family’s love is good medicine after all. Sincerely,

Kenneth Fisher Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation @KenFisherFHF

The Fisher family at the groundbreaking for the Fisher Houses in the Bronx, NY.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kerri Childress MANAGING EDITOR Ashley Estill LAYOUT AND ART DIRECTION ds+f www.dsfriends.com Address all correspondence to: The Patriot Fisher House Foundation 111 Rockville Pike Suite 420 Rockville, Maryland 20850 Phone: (301) 294-8560 Fax: (301) 294-8562 Email: info@fisherhouse.org

$360+ Million Savings for Families in Lodging and Transportation Cost

7 Million Days of Lodging Offered

305 Thousand Families Served 72 Fisher Houses in Operation

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 awarded by the top national charity watch dog organizations. Fisher House Foundation has received an A+ from CharityWatch (formerly the American Institute of Philanthropy) in their “Veterans and Military” category. Out of 65 charities rated, Fisher House Foundation is one of only two charities to receive their distinctive A+ rating Charity Navigator awarded the Foundation their coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management for the 13th consecutive year, a rating achieved by less than one percent of the charities in the country that they monitor.

www.fisherhouse.org Cover photo by Kerri Childress.

The statistics in this graphic reflect the Fisher House program’s impact since inception.

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SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT

Zachary Fisher Named to the Philanthropy Hall of Fame

FACEBOOK FEEDBACK www.facebook.com/FisherHouse “My family and I are so grateful we got to stay at the Fisher House on Fort Campbell in July 2013. My husband had just gotten back from deployment with the Georgia National Guard and had to go through rehab there instead of returning home to Georgia with the rest of his unit. Without the Fisher House, we wouldn’t have been able to stay while he was going through treatment, which meant more time away from our 18-month-old daughter and I after a year-long deployment. We are forever grateful for what this organization does for our men and women in uniform and their families!”

“Thank you for your service to vets and their families! My son was hospitalized for major surgery in Seattle, and my daughter-in-law was able to stay at Fisher House and be close to him. She said the place was lovely and the people were so kind. Blessings to you and your family!” — Joyce W. “Thank you for your generosity. Your foundation has been the net that has caught many families over the years.” — Erin L.

— Brianna S.

TWITTER LOVE Twitter.com/FisherHouseFdtn Carlie Carver @carlieacarver @FisherHouseFdtn you are amazing, thank you for what you did for us, the people before and the people to come. Christa Avampato @christanyc Very happy to support @FisherHouseFdtn w/ a donation in honor of my uncle’s birthday! #SupportOurVeterans #SundayMorning

Founder of Fisher House program is linked to philanthropists such as Andrew Carnegie, J.P Morgan, Benjamin Franklin, Henry Ford, Paul Getty, Andrew Mellon and George Washington.

Share your story with us using the hashtag #FisherHouse!

Zachary Fisher, founder of the Fisher House program, was recently named to the Philanthropy Hall of Fame in the Almanac of American Philanthropy. Zachary joins 56 other great American philanthropists whose names resonate throughout US history: Andrew Carnegie, George Washington, George Eastman, Henry Ford, John Rockefeller senior and junior, J.P Morgan, David Packard, Leland Stanford, and Benjamin Franklin, to name just a few.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION! Don’t forget to connect with us on Instagram, too! Instagram.com/FisherHouseFdtn

The 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, Martin and Larry, eventually became one of the most prominent developers of the New York City skyline.

Maria Foster @Mariaimd1 @ChesapeakUPSers #VeteransBRG volunteering @FisherHouseFdtn Giving back to our service members & their families feels great! #WeAreUPS

A construction knee injury prevented him from serving in WWII, but he always held the military in high regard. “There is a dignity and majesty in the efforts of all our Armed Forces, and it is well for us to remember the noble deeds of those who have worn the uniform,” said Zachary some years before he died in 1999. 2

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He lived by his words. Over the years, Zachary and his wife Elizabeth supported many and varied philanthropic causes, but the US military was never far from their thoughts. Spending millions of their own money, they spearheaded the effort to save the retired aircraft carrier Intrepid from the scrap heap and transform it into one of the world’s largest sea, air and space museums. They personally provided cash gifts to families of fallen service members and scholarships to veterans and their families. In 1990, Zachary began a remarkable partnership with Department of Defense, and later Department of Veterans Affairs, that blossomed from opening one Fisher House to 10 houses to 22 houses to 72 today. They were to be built like “a home away from home.” He wanted families staying there to feel like his honored guests. “Where there is military, there is a Fisher House. Where there is a Fisher House, there will always be caring, warmth, security, and compassion,” Zachary said.

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GUEST FAMILY PROFILE: The Menchaca Family Story by Kerri Childress

NAME: SSG Marcus Menchaca HOUSE: Brooke Army Medical Center IV HOME: Mission, Texas MILITARY BRANCH: Army Reserve

THE FISHER HOUSE KEPT OUR FAMILY TOGETHER If you are a parent, you probably remember fondly when your daughter went to her first prom — the dress, the corsage, the young man dressed to the hilt. But it doesn’t typically happen at a Fisher House, unless you are there for nearly a year as the Menchaca family was since 2016. Army SSG Marcus Menchaca, who served in combat in Afghanistan in 2011, was on his way to drill as an Army Reservist when a car accident left him severely injured with broken bones in his leg and back and a traumatic brain injury. His injuries would require nearly a year of surgeries and rehabilitation, and the entire time his wife and four children stayed at one of Brooke Army Medical Center’s four Fisher Houses. “The Fisher House has kept our family together,” said SSG Menchaca. “I simply cannot imagine how hard it would have been without my wife and family, especially in those first months. I not only needed her love and support. I literally needed her help to get to my appointments because I was in a wheelchair and had a brain injury.”

Yomara had to give up her job as a dessert caterer when Marcus was injured, but that didn’t stop her from cooking at the Fisher House. Both she and Marcus admit the kitchen was where so many of their friendships developed, and on Thanksgiving Marcus deep fried the turkey and Yomara made all the trimmings for everyone in the house. “It was my favorite Thanksgiving ever,” said Yomara. “No one was sad they weren’t home. We shared the holiday with our new Fisher House family. Even Christmas was made so special at Fisher House. We all got gifts, and dinner was a Fisher House family affair.”

SSG Menchaca has worked at Homeland Security for nine years. He’s been an Army Reservist for nearly 18 years, nine of which were spent on active duty. Although the family is eager to return home, Yomara says they will miss the Fisher House. “We have made memories at Fisher House that will stay with us our entire lives,” said SSG Menchaca. “Not only was my family able to be here during my tough recovery, but they had a home and many friends who helped us all through this tough time.”

Once his rehabilitation is over, SSG Menchaca will return home to Mission, where he is a Border Patrol Agent with Homeland Security. “People don’t realize that a lot of what we do on the border is rescue people who get hurt, dehydrated or lost,” he said. “It’s not all that different from my job as a soldier taking care of troops as a medical laboratory specialist.”

The kids, ranging from 2-16 years old, were also there; the older ones going to school on base at Ft. Sam Houston. Yomara, SSG Menchaca’s wife said, it was a community at the Fisher House, where everyone knew each other and helped look out for the kids. They were one big family. “As far as our youngest daughter, Angelina, is concerned, this is her home,” said Yomara. “Angelina wakes up and the first person she wants to get a hug from is Poncho [Alfonso Mendoza, one of the housekeepers, affectionately nicknamed Poncho]. When we went back to our home in Mission, Texas, recently, Angelina kept asking when we were going ‘home,’ meaning the Fisher House. She’s lived here half her life and it’s all she knows.”

Left Page Photo: During the Warrior Games SSG Menchaca had the opportunity to meet Ken and Tammy Fisher. Top Center Photo: SSG Menchaca (standing) and his two daughters, Stefanie and Caroline, join other families staying at the Fisher House for dinner. Right Page Photos Clockwise: Yomara, SSG Menchaca’s wife, takes a moment to hold SSG Menchaca. Angelina, SSG Menchaca’s youngest child, only knows Fisher House as home. Caroline is picked up at Fisher House for her first prom.

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SSG Menchaca is joined by his mother, Patricia, and Yomara.

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The Huntsman Shootout Dogs, Ducks, and Raptors for Fisher House

NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski (center standing) joins Mark (Ranger) Jones, Fisher House Trustee; Col. Greg Gadson, who lost his legs in Iraq; and Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation, at The Huntsman Shootout.

Story and photos by Kerri Childress

Kevin Trimble came rolling down the hill with arms outstretched as his sister Deborah ran behind him doing the same. Breathless, Deborah exclaimed they just came back from shooting skeet and her success was due to the patient guidance of Kevin. Kevin, a triple amputee from the Iraq war, is still an excellent marksman with a specially adapted gun, and he wasn’t the only crack shot at The Huntsman Hunt Club in Dryden, MI, that day. More than 125 guests took part in the event which benefited Fisher House. The Huntsman Shootout featured several events, including sporting clays, skeet shooting, archery, hunting and service dog demonstrations, and off-road driving in Ford SuperDuty and Ford Raptor trucks. It was all part of NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski’s Checkered Flag Foundation’s support to build a Fisher House in Ann Arbor, MI. Along with Keselowski, Team Penske NASCAR drivers Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney also competed in the various activities to provide a unique experience. Additionally, University of Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh attended to lend his support and round out a starstudded day. “When the Checkered Flag Foundation began looking for a new partner to benefit our nation’s veterans, we were lucky to have been led to the great people at Fisher House Foundation,” said Keselowski. “And I’m happy to announce this

is the most-successful fundraiser conducted by [Checkered Flag] Foundation since its inception in 2010, and knowing that most of the money raised is going directly to the building of the Ann Arbor house is very humbling.” The weather was perfect and the grounds were beautiful. Only the constant sounds of gun shots broke the serenity. “It’s a wonderful day,” said Col. Greg Gadson, whose vehicle was struck by an IED in Baghdad in 2007. He lost both legs above the knee and suffered a severe injury to his right arm. “Although the event was great fun, it’s important to remember why we are here,” he said to the crowd at dinner. “We are here to remember and honor those who sacrificed for our nation and their families. I can vouch for Fisher House. It is a place of healing, as well as a free place to sleep and eat. You need your family in these hours of darkness. Believe me, I know.” Coach Harbaugh agreed. “Healing is a family thing. That’s what the Fisher House is all about. Not only do our service members need good medical care, they need their families. We got to hear from our injured soldiers today and what the Fisher House meant to their families — it was the most powerful thing we experienced at the event.”

Kevin and Deborah Trimble Army PFC Kevin Trimble, was just four months into his deployment to Afghanistan when a fellow soldier, standing three feet away, stepped on an IED. The soldier was killed and Trimble lost both of his legs above the knees and his left arm above the elbow. Trimble approached his arduous recovery with the same toughness and intensity he brought to his military training. His upbeat attitude rubbed off on the rest of the family, including four siblings, three of whom served in the military. His sister, Deborah Trimble, enlisted in the military with her brother. Together, they wanted to be part of something greater than themselves. But Deborah never foresaw that a personal tragedy from the Afghan War, which almost claimed the life of her youngest brother, would ultimately push her to separate from the military and answer another call – to serve as a doctor. In the days after her brother’s injury, Deborah gathered with family and friends at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. It was here that Deborah and her family found solace in being able to stay at a Fisher House. They were by 19-yearold Kevin’s side throughout the long journey to recovery. It was also there where Deborah decided to become a doctor. “We could never thank Fisher House enough,” said Kevin. “I needed my family more at that time in my life than ever before, and they were just steps away. I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without a Fisher House.”

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Matt Drake and Lisa Schuster Specialist Matthew Drake was serving as an Army Psychological Operations soldier in Iraq, when a car carrying a 200-pound bomb ran directly into his Humvee, killing the other two men in the vehicle and forever changing his life. Only 24 years old, Matt barely survived. He had second and third degree burns over his body, many broken bones, and suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. He was in a coma for months. “My body woke up one body part at a time,” said Matt. “I was mentally like a small child. I needed my mom.” Lisa Schuster, his mother, was never far from his side as he went through his recovery at then-Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC, and at the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, where she stayed in a Fisher House. He eventually continued his care closer to home at the Ann Arbor VA. All this took place in 20042005. Today, Matt shares his story as a sought-after speaker and continues to serve others. His mother has been working with the local community group in Michigan to help raise money for a Fisher House at Ann Arbor. After all, through her experience she understands the significance and importance of having family by your side during a medical crisis.

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Entries from Fisher House Guests Within the walls of each Fisher filled House guest suite are journals of a s with entries containing storie or just loved one, encouraging words, will rds a simple thank you. These wo g in be read by the next family stayin and ce that room, for them to find pea se hope. Here, we share a few of the s. words, written by our familie

Coming Home Off the road, traveling alone Release the pressure, I’m coming home. The lights are on, quiet as a mouse Wouldn’t you know, it’s the Fisher House. The warmth and beauty shine through It’s a blessing to have one waiting for you. The bed is made, pic k up your key All of this just for me. Thanks Fisher House, my friend On you I can always depend. You’ve been here in my time of need Do I appreciate your kindness? Yes indeed!

job well done. You Thank you Fisher House for a ing together as com provide us with real people, ties that bind us family, leaving as friends. The hearts and feelings together allow us to blend our erosity have given into one. Your concern and gen be near our loved ones each of us the opportunity to You have made our when they need us the most. bear. There is no way burdens light, much easier to all that you have done that we can ever repay you for for others. My prayer is for us and will continue to do cial effort to show love that each of us will make a spe e we meet as we go and kindness to any and everyon le or the miracle of a through life. The power of a smi rence between pain or kind word can make the diffe n. pleasure, acceptance or rejectio

joy of You have taughtaccusepthe ce. The least pleasure and s itan we can do is pas t on to others. Thank you for those gif ts. those that contribute I just want to thank God for all House available to to and make the Travis Fisher ily members while military personnel and their fam is truly an overwhelming they are being hospitalized. It at the Travis Fisher House, experience to be able to stay outstanding way. It can an and be provided for in such ng embrace at a time lovi and be expressed as a warm of great need.

lovin g Onc e aga in than k you so muc h for the at the hos pita lity and incr edib le gen ero sity deb t. Tra vis Fish er Hou se. For eve r in you r

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SERVICE Your Free Scholarship Search Tool While hundreds of organizations provide scholarships specifically for military children and spouses, qualified applicants are often unaware of their existence. Last year, Fisher House Foundation commissioned Scholarships for Service, an online tool that military families can use for free to identify over 3,000 different military-related scholarships. Many military-specific scholarships are overlooked by other mainstream online scholarship search tools (such as Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and Collegeboard.org) because they tend to target the general public. Students can access the search engine, as well as Fisher House Foundation’s own scholarship programs, on our scholarship webpage at www.militaryscholar.org. Simply click on the “Scholarships for Service” link, answer a few brief profile questions, and then click the results button to get a list of military scholarships. Students can then click on listed individual scholarships to get specific information on eligibility requirements and application procedures. Users can also choose to download their search results for later use. One key benefit of the Scholarships for Service search engine is that Fisher House Foundation does not share or sell user information. Consequently, individuals concerned about their privacy can feel comfortable using this tool knowing that their personal information will never be shared with commercial agents for marketing purposes. The cost of a college education can be expensive. Over 25,000 potential applicants have already used Scholarships for Service to help with that cost. If you know a military family looking for resources to help fund their college education, please encourage them to visit www.militaryscholar.org.

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South Texas Veterans Health Care System Fisher House Photo by Steve Goetsch

Lisa gi n DiGa ey Kell Media igital D f o ger ville, MD Mana ck Ro

DAYINTHELIFE 2017 PHOTO CONTEST

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

Each year the Foundation sponsors a “Day in the Life” photo contest to help depict what happens within a Fisher House. It’s often hard to describe the camaraderie and bonds formed, so we’ve reached out to our houses to help show that through photos. Here we highlight the winners.

Lisa DiGangi Kelley Manager of Digital Media

Managers’ Choice

VA St. Louis Medical Center Fisher House, MO Photo by David Ketcherside

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Fisher House Photo by Tracy Martiny

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As a daughter, sister, and wife, the military has always been a part of my life. When I got my first job out of college, it was no surprise that I found it at a nonprofit that supports military families at Fisher House Foundation. Ten years later I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I have had and the people I have met. As Digital Media Manager, I am the voice behind several of our social media accounts and am always updating our website. I enjoy putting my love of technology together with my love for our mission and interacting with supporters. Covering events for social media has allowed me to participate in my favorite Fisher House events, supporting families at both Warrior Games and Invictus Games. Not only have I been astounded by all the amazing feats our wounded warriors can accomplish at these games, but I have also been blessed to witness many of their kids grow over the years. In fact, it was at a 2015 Warrior Games meeting between Fisher House and the service family coordinators that I met my husband, who was then an active duty Marine stationed at Walter Reed.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Fisher House Photo by Tracy Martiny

If you have a special memory or high quality photo you’d like to share with the Foundation, please send it to us at info@fisherhouse.org!

MEET the Staff

Marrying a Marine who still feels the after-effects of war has given me a new appreciation for not just our military and for the caregivers who love them, but for the work that Fisher House does with those affected by invisible wounds. I am proud that over the last 10 years Fisher House has become a true passion and family affair. My parents host fundraisers, my siblings run for Team Fisher House and my husband and step-daughters volunteer. And I can’t wait to involve our new baby girl in the organization that has changed so many lives, including mine.

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FISHER HOUSE

SALUTES

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

WE SALUTE: THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is comprised of members and volunteers whose mission is to serve and improve the quality of life for veterans, military and their families. Volunteer efforts include ALA’s 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance project in late 2017 that awarded grants to ALA entities and organizations helping veterans with everything from veteran job fairs to sprucing up veterans’ facilities, as well as community reintegration (ensuring military families feel supported in their communities). Through the ALA Foundation, they also award grants to local and state entities for projects to benefit veterans. The Fisher House program continues to receive support from the American Legion Auxiliary across the nation. Last year, the Florida American Legion Auxiliary adopted Fisher House as their project and presented a check for over $55K to Fisher Houses in Florida.

National Veterans Creative Arts Festival along with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. One of the key components to the Festival’s success is getting all 200 of the gold medalwinning artists to the national Festival. We have worked with Fisher House through its Hero Miles program to provide air transportation,” explained Mary “Dubbie” Buckler, ALA National Secretary/Executive Director. “We actively promote and encourage ALA members and friends to donate their unused airline miles to Fisher House Hero Miles,” Dubbie said. Rita Navarreteé, an ALA past National President, is now leading the efforts in New Mexico for a Fisher House at the VA in Albuquerque. The American Legion Auxiliary continues their legacy of service and advocacy. To learn more about their programs and services, visit www.alaforveterans.org.

The 14th annual Fisher House Golf Classic was held on May 8, 2017, at Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, VA. Wounded warriors, Fisher House families and Medal of Honor recipients joined corporate VIPs on the golf course. The evening program included special remarks by Rear Admiral Andrew Lewis, USN and was emceed by Fisher House Board of Trustee and CNN Correspondent Kyra Phillips and chief White House correspondent for Fox News Channel, John Roberts. More than $760K was raised through the Golf Classic efforts.

Save the Date! Next year’s Fisher House Golf Classic will be on Monday, May 7, 2018.

Medal of Honor Recipients Recognize Citizen Heroes The Citizen Honors Award is the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s highest award. Fisher House Foundation was selected as one of the honorees during the March ceremony. Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation, his wife Tammy Fisher, trustee of the Foundation, and Harvey “Barney” Barnum, Medal of Honor recipient, accepted the award on our behalf.

“For nearly 20 years, the American Legion Auxiliary has been the co-presenter of the

Legendary KISS frontmen Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley recently held a luncheon to honor military, veterans and Fisher House, at the Rock & Brew in Oviedo, Fla. The legendary hall-offame rockers were in central Florida for an opening of another one of their restaurants. Not only did they donate money to help build the new Fisher House at the Orlando VA, they also benefitted a VA Vet Center by donating 25 guitars for veterans being treated there. KISS has been supporting Fisher House and the military for many years. 12

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TEAM FISHER HOUSE From a runner:

Be A Hero to a Hero. Donate Your Miles Today.

In 2009, I found myself overweight and in need of getting in shape. I was amazed watching people run the Marine Corps Marathon [MCM] and never could imagine myself doing anything like that.

Through generous donations of frequent flyer

However, I started running and had my mother and sister as inspirations as they both completed multiple marathons. Before I knew it, I was logging 10 miles or more and I felt great!

miles, Fisher House Foundation’s Hero Miles program has provided over 63,000 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.donate.fisherhouse.org/heromiles

Soon enough, I wanted to run the MCM and Team Fisher House had an available spot. Training for the MCM became an obsession and my wife, Cindy, was fully supportive. She would help me overcome some of the mental hurdles and would ride her bike next to me as I ran. Together, we learned what Fisher House was and met people whose lives were changed by Fisher House. We saw a small glimpse of the struggles that people went through and knew we could help a little by raising funds through my running.

USA HOCKEY WARRIORS SUPPORT FISHER HOUSE The USA Hockey Warriors held a fundraiser to benefit Fisher House Foundation during the 5th Annual American Heroes Hockey Challenge at The Gardens Ice House in Laurel, Maryland. DeMatha and St. Albans high schools wore camouflage to pay tribute to those who serve our nation. Their uniforms featured a Fisher House logo on the sleeve and on the goalies’ pads. Over the past four years, DeMatha has raised over $75,000 for military charities, including Fisher House. We are so thankful for their continued support with such a fun event.

Every step I took helped me get healthier and raised awareness for Fisher House. Soon, the training miles grew from 10, 13 to 16 and 20 and 23 miles. The pain grew with each passing mile. But my thoughts

kept going back to the pain and suffering that the wounded veterans and their families went through.

endurance events one can conquer. The race consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112mile bike and a full marathon.

MCM race day came and I had the pleasure to run with thousands of our veterans. Emotions run high as people are running in memory of loved ones lost in battle. There were cheers from the crowds when they saw me with Team Fisher House gear. It made me proud to be able to help such a fantastic organization.

The day was fantastic, filled with family and friends. Just over 14 hours after the start, I crossed the

Through the years, Cindy and I have had the pleasure of raising $20,444 for Fisher House. I have now run over 12 marathons, including seven MCMs, and the Berlin Marathon. Raising funds for Fisher House is a way people can make a difference in the lives of people who have served our country. It is a way that I can feel I am doing my portion of serving. The drive I get from Fisher House continues to motivate me to higher endurance levels. Last year, I raised funds, not just while preparing for MCM but while stepping up to the challenge of a full Ironman. This is one of the hardest single day

MOO-TIVATING TEAM FISHER HOUSE! Team Fisher House moo-tivated their Army TenMiler and Marine Corps Marathon fundraisers with a summertime competition, awarding gifts to the top fundraiser and top awareness raiser each month. Corporate Champions and local businesses generously donated gifts for the runners. First-time donor to Team Fisher House, Sword and Plough, donated two beautiful signature totes to the competition. These wonderful bags will look amazing in the arms of our fantastic fundraisers!

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finish line knowing that additional awareness was raised for Fisher House. These endurance challenges require a strong commitment to training but it makes it easier to do when you know the work is for such a great cause.

- Jim Kaufman

CORPORATE SUPPORTER: Team Fisher House is thrilled to welcome long-time Fisher House Foundation supporter United Concordia as a Corporate Champion this year. United Concordia is equally dedicated to the health and wellness of their employees as they are to supporting Fisher House. They not only support Team Fisher House at the corporate level, but also have teams of fundraisers running both the MCM and the MCM10k!

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COVER STORY: Friends, Family and Fisher House

Help Heather Carter Get Her Life Back Story by Kerri Childress Photos by Kerri Childress and Ashley Estill

Air Force veteran Heather Carter lost her left is on the National Wounded Warrior Softball leg in 2014 but today competes nationally Team, playing the very sport in which she in softball, swimming, cycling, and much was injured years before. “I remember it more. “And I actually win,” she says with a well, I was playing on the Air Force softball bright smile. team. I was running full-out to first base, my leg was fully extended when my heel That smile would have been less likely after caught in the dirt and my toes caught on the her accident in 2010 which resulted in 14 bag— all my weight was on my left leg and surgeries and relentless, stark pain during I felt every bone break and ligaments and efforts to salvage her leg for nearly four tendons snap. I shattered everything from years. Heather admits sacrificing her limb the middle of my thigh through the middle probably saved her life. of my shin,” she said. “I had been such an extrovert; I loved sports and loved life,” said 29-year-old Heather. “Then the accident, and my life changed overnight—and so did I. The chronic pain forced me to isolate. I became a hermit. I was hooked on meds. Depression became rampant. And yes, I thought heavily about suicide.”

Doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center tried to save the limb but finally agreed amputation was the best thing. Although the rehab was arduous, her mother, who quit her job and stayed in the nearby Fisher House, advocated for her and helped her get through it one day at a time. For 18 months, they lived at the Fisher House.

So, she told her doctors to amputate the leg “In your darkest hours, when you think you in 2014. have nowhere to turn,” said Vicki Carter, Heather’s mother, “Fisher House offers a This summer, Heather competed in the 2017 glimmer of hope. It was like a hand reaching Department of Defense Warrior Games and

down and pulling you up. You knew it was going to be okay.” Vickie Carter was also quick to say they would have been in “financial ruin” without Fisher House, but beyond that it was the friends they made at Fisher House, people they still keep in contact with and consider their family, that she recalls most. “I remember the first time I walked into the Fisher House on my prosthetic,” said Heather. “Everyone was cheering. I felt so loved and so inspired. We spent Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter at Fisher House, and I never felt lonely. They even gave us thoughtful presents at Christmas. It was as close to being home away from home as it could possibly be, and there was always a smile and hug waiting for you.” Although her dream of making the Air Force a career was not possible, Heather has continued her work in the intelligence field working as a counterterrorism intelligence analyst with BAE at the

Pentagon. She recently finished her degree in criminal justice and aspires to compete in the Florida Xtreme Triathlon this November. This past summer, her mom and dad, John, were able to see her compete for the first time since she was injured, attending as part of the Family Program at the Warrior Games. John talked about what it meant to the two of them to see Heather happy and competing again. “When you have seen her at her very lowest, and I mean low, you can’t imagine how wonderful it is to see her now—smiling, laughing, competing and living life to the fullest,” he said. Upbeat, full of smiles and laughter, Heather is passionate about giving back and mentors young children who have also suffered amputations. Additionally, she visits the Walter Reed amputee ward to encourage new amputees and let them know they can accomplish whatever they set out to accomplish. “When you hear them say you will never walk, run, swim, ride a bike, or whatever, just don’t listen to them. You can do it. It’s up to you. I’m living proof,” Heather says proudly.

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eaving Fisher House Foundation a bequest in your will or as part of your estate planning is a way to leave a meaningful and lasting legacy that will benefit military families for generations to come. In the last 10 years, Fisher House Foundation has received gifts that have helped build over 25 new houses.

The fact is, Fisher House couldn’t serve families as well without donors like Kenneth (Ken) Dreyfuss, who has already made plans to leave a bequest to Fisher House Foundation. Since 2008, Ken has been working with the Foundation to create a legacy that will honor his mother and father’s sacrifices during World War II, by ensuring that our military, veterans and their families are honored in a lasting way.

KEEPING MEMORIES Alive While Serving Our Military, Veterans and Their Families Story by Andrew Kayton

As a coxswain on the U.S. rowing team at the 1976 Olympic Games and a coach for the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, Ken’s allegiance to our country and our military run deep. Ken’s father Edmund Dreyfuss walked onto the beaches of Normandy, along with other members of the Army Corp of Engineers, shortly after D-Day. His mother Lorraine was working in Washington supporting the war effort. Upon his father’s return to Washington, D.C., Edmund began working as a successful architect, and after meeting Lorraine they started a family. Ken’s bequest to the Foundation will not only memorialize the spirit and service of his parents, who like Fisher House founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher were part of the United States’ “Greatest Generation,” but also provide “a home away from home” for our military and veterans’ families. From Edmund’s fellow WWII veterans receiving treatment at VA hospitals to young active duty military who have returned home to the United States to start their own families, including Fisher House in your estate planning means leaving a legacy of care and support for those who serve in uniform and their families. For information on leaving a bequest to Fisher House Foundation call (888) 294-8560 or see bequests at http://fisherhouse.org/ways-to-give/

Cisco System

Engineers Help Veterans’ Families Stay Connected

m s Progra Veteran o c is C tor, y, Direc el Veyse a h ic M : By

Pete Sawyer is a systems engineer at Cisco. He’s an Army veteran, and he’s a global problem solver using decades of military and IT experience to make a difference in his local community. Through his volunteer work with Fisher House Foundation, Sawyer ensures veterans’ families stay connected while their loved ones receive medical treatment. “I’ve always been involved with the military and appreciate what veterans do for us and the sacrifices they make,” said Sawyer. “It’s good to have the ability to give back. I saw this opportunity and knew I wanted to get involved.”

Brian Gawne, Fisher House Foundation’s VP for Community Relations, knows how valuable a reliable Wi-Fi network can be. “The people who run the homes are experienced in things like social care and lodging,” he said. “They’re not IT experts, and we soon realized we needed a network to support our families.” By chance, a representative from Cisco’s Veteran’s Program emailed Gawne with a simple question: “How can we help?” Shortly after receiving the email, local employee volunteers in San Antonio were soon on-site at Fisher House installing a network with the capability to meet every resident’s needs. Since then, employee volunteers like Sawyer

have donated and installed equipment at several Fisher Houses. “We provide a solution to Fisher Houses and offer installation services for free,” Sawyer said. “I volunteer to do that, and once I’ve finished the installation, I give the house manager some overthe-shoulder training and knowledge transfer before leaving.” Sawyer’s most recent installations include homes in Las Vegas, Tuscon, Portland, and Joint Base LewisMcChord, where networks connect hundreds of distinct users. Having reliable internet connections is a powerful tool to keep families connected during a crisis. Thanks to Cisco, families can have peace of mind as they communicate.

very day, service members, veterans, and their families rise to the challenge of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while facing the unique trials that come with having dedicated their lives in service to our nation. These families often face long deployments and separation, and many must cope with the long-term effects associated with service.

Newman’s Own, Fisher House Foundation, and Military Times join together in presenting $200,000 in grants to the most creative ideas to improve quality of life for military families. Interested in applying for 2018? The application process will open in February 1, 2018. Visit www.fisherhouse.org and click on “programs” to apply. 18

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Hearts in the Community Corporate and Foundation Giving Fisher House Foundation is the beneficiary of many generous gifts. Here we highlight two companies that continue to support the Fisher House program.

Navy & Marine Corps Fisher House Team Supports the 2017 DOD Warrior Games

Warner Bros. Employees Select Fisher House Fisher House Foundation was selected to participate in the Warner Bros. 2016 and 2017 Employee Impact Giving Program. This is an employee-driven initiative that supports employee outreach and giving. Fisher House Foundation staff and house managers from the Long Beach and West LA Fisher Houses attended the February Impact Kick-Off Event, held on the Warner Bros. studio lot. It was a unique opportunity to tell hundreds of Warner Bros. employees about Fisher House’s mission and impact.

Navy & Marine Corps Fisher House staff proudly joined Fisher House Foundation and the Warrior Games Family Program to assist family members of all athletes in Chicago from June 29 – July 9. Their mission was to assist the athlete’s friends and family members at their arrival in Chicago. All were partnered with a service point of contact to assist with family hotel check-in and registration, and to be available with helping hands for any individual needs during the Games. A true partnership and bond developed among everyone as part of the family program team.

The Raab Collection Auctions Civil War Document to Benefit Fisher House On Memorial Day, historical collectors had the opportunity to bid on a Civil War lot — an 1861 document believed to be the only one with the signatures of President Abraham Lincoln and his fellow Union political and military leaders. Raab donated a portion of the proceeds to Fisher House Foundation. Thank you, Raab Collection for the support!

Dancing for a Cause

Twitch

The Western Swing Dance Network hosted a western swing/ country dance festival for the patriotic folks (all of whom are over 60) who regularly dance on the circuit to traditional country music throughout the southwest states of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Kansas. Their fundraising efforts far exceeded their original expectations! Thank you to Rhonda Craig for all her amazing hard work raising funds and awareness for the Foundation.

Online gaming and fundraising now go hand in hand: Twitch is a social video platform and community for gamers, it is also a great format for gamers to use to fundraise. Fisher House Foundation has been the beneficiary of several gamers raising funds and awareness on this platform combining their love of gaming and their passion for supporting our military and veteran’s families.

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It was pretty amazing to see folks that we have been able to assist in their hardest times, and see the progress that they have made, participating in Warrior Games. We don’t always get to see the progress of these folks and it really hit home for me and made me more proud (if that’s possible) to do the job that we do. Attending, we were able to assist families as we do in our houses. Whether it was from the services we were ‘assigned to’ or other services, (I’m sure we all helped whoever needed it), what a grateful and gratifying experience for me! — Mike Ybarra Fisher House manager at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Proud Supporters

Managers had the opportunity to see family members and athletes who had previously stayed at their house. This experience added a new level of understanding seeing “our families” full circle — what recovery, family and a caring home truly means.

Being with the families of the athletes certainly was a privilege and an honor. This experience working with all who were there was nothing short of amazing. The coordination of an event this size was stupendous to say the least. The environment was fully charged and so positive – there were so many outside of this event that were in awe. Even after returning and letting staff and other peers know how fortunate and honored that we were selected to attend this event, it has made for very humbling story telling. This was a once in a lifetime experience! — Lori Erickson Fisher House manager at Naval Medical Center San Diego THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

Support from Fisher House Foundation is privileged to have amazing managers at our Fisher Houses. These professionals do a wonderful job taking care of the families that call Fisher House “a home away from home.”

Holly Wright

Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital Fisher House, Chicago Story and Photos by Kerri Childress

Fisher House Foundation has been blessed with wonderful corporate relationships. One of the most longstanding and impactful is with USAA. Over the last 15 years, USAA, USAA Bank and The USAA Foundation, Inc. have given the Foundation a combined total of nearly $4 million in charitable grants to help build new Fisher Houses, including those at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and the South Texas VA, both in San Antonio; Dover Air Force Base, Dover, DE; and at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa, FL. Most recently, The USAA Foundation, a nonprofit organization sponsored by USAA, contributed $750,000 to support the “Sponsor A Family” program, helping to ensure that families staying at Fisher Houses on military installations do not have to pay anything out of their own pockets to stay there. “Fisher Houses are built on teamwork and support from alliances. That begins with community,” said Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation. “It’s what we do together that makes the greatest impact, and I want to thank USAA and The USAA Foundation for being part of the solution.” For many years, USAA employees have given their time to volunteer at Fisher Houses across the country. They have prepared dinners and BBQs, helped decorate for the holidays, and even helped with painting and gardening. In 2012, USAA employees also raised more than $237,000 for the Fisher House Foundation in a four-day Bowlathon, funds that were matched by a corporate donation from USAA. 22

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Beyond company-wide employee engagements, there is also a deeply personal element for USAA employees who have stayed at a Fisher House. Retired Army MSG Todd Nelson, a six-year USAA employee, was severely burned in 2007 by a roadside bombing in Afghanistan. After awakening from a coma – blind from eye surgery, jaw wired shut and barely able to walk – he turned to Fisher House at Brooke Army Medical Center for his recovery period beyond his hospital stay. “I needed a place to live that was available by a short, assisted walk and that would enable me to process my food so I could eat,” said Nelson. “By the grace of God, I was accepted to the Fisher House on the BAMC hospital grounds. I could get between the hospital and my room within my visual and physical limits and get food prepared the way I needed.” “To know that the Fisher House has touched and positively impacted so many military and veteran families, to include some of our own colleagues, makes us grateful to be a small part of their healing journey,” said Harriet Dominique, USAA’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and President of The USAA Foundation, Inc. “For us, supporting the military community is engrained in our mission. But we also want to lead and inspire other companies and individuals in making military philanthropy a priority.” “I am humbled by the commitment, teamwork and generosity of everyone at USAA,” said Fisher. “It’s inspiring to see how the intangibles that are such a part of the USAA corporate culture are making possible the tangible support of our military and veterans.”

“Even when we are not staying at the Fisher House, I have to call to hear my ‘Holly voice,’” said Pearl Clark. “She is my angel, my shero.”

James Cooks is Holly’s assistant manager, and Holly will be the first to admit she couldn’t run the home without “my team.” From the housekeeping staff to the volunteers, everyone focuses on one thing: the families staying at the Fisher House.

Pearl is referring to Holly Wright, who manages the 20-suite Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital Fisher House in Chicago, and “People are always amazed at how beautiful the home is, but has been its sole manager since before it opened in 2010. Before what they really remember is the love they felt while staying coming to Fisher House, she was a social worker on VA’s Spinal here,” said Holly. “We see these families at their most vulnerable moments—when they just learned their loved one is being Cord Injury Unit working in home care. moved to hospice or has to have a leg amputated. “I think my previous job helped prepare me to be a Fisher House manager,” said Holly. “I focused not just on the veteran, “I remind my staff and volunteers all the time not to lose sight but also on the wives, daughters, whoever the caregiver was. I of why we are here. I tell them, ‘listen to your heart.’ Many have such a deep and profound respect for the families of our families are afraid and they don’t want to feel alone. Be that veterans, and working at Fisher House for nearly a decade has caring ear, open your arms, and give them a hug,” Holly said sincerely. only deepened that admiration.” Holly explained that prior to the Fisher House opening, the “Holly is like a mother hen protecting her chicks,” said Pearl, best VA could do for their veterans and their families was to laughing, “and James is the grand ol’ rooster.” But on a much give them a list of discounted hotels nearby. Even then, it was more serious note, she concluded, “At this Fisher House there $85 a night, and that was out of reach for many veterans. “I is just one color—doesn’t matter about your politics or religion. know there were people who just didn’t come for care because It’s about understanding and love, and that’s Holly’s influence. their families had nowhere to stay. Or they would sleep in their “Oh, how I wish the whole world was more like my Fisher car or the waiting room,” she said. House,” said Pearl. “Ernest and I have never been apart,” said Pearl, speaking about her husband, a two-time Vietnam combat veteran, who was Holly Wright being treated for Agent Orange-related cancer. “I would be with James here with or without a Fisher House, even if that meant sleeping Cooks, her in the lunch room. But thank God, I have Fisher House. And assistant thank God for Holly and James—they are closer to me than manager, in the many of my family.” Fisher House kitchen.

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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, submitted by our Fisher House managers. ALASKA

JBER HOSPITAL Elmendorf AFB, AK Alaska Fisher House guests, Nick and Flynn Stuparich, have faithfully planted a beautiful garden for the past three years. Their garden is filled with annuals, perennials, and vegetables. This year, a local airman, who added a variety of herbs to the gardens, joined them. The beautiful garden blesses us with beauty and a bounty for all to enjoy — and maybe a moose or two!

His mission was to raise money for the Arizona Fisher House at the Tucson VA. Chris said, “I was very proud, lucky, and fortunate to represent the Arizona Fisher House and raise funds for them. They’re doing great things for our military families and our veterans.” Being an Air Force veteran himself, Chris knows the impact of the mission of the Fisher House: providing “a home away from home” for family members to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. The Southern VA Health Care System in Tucson and the Arizona Fisher House are incredibly proud and grateful for Chris Cobb and his dedication to the families we serve.

West (WWB) also attended. Meals were donated for Fisher House guests to enjoy, and tours of the Fisher House were also provided.

VA GREATER LOS ANGELES HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Los Angeles, CA Our local Scottish Knights Templar made our residents’ day at the West Los Angeles Fisher House when they served a Fourth of July barbecue with all the trimmings, including bagpipers. Our residents were thrilled and said they had never heard “Amazing Grace” played on bagpipes. So many of our community members have done wonderful things for our veteran families, and we can’t thank them enough for showing they care.

VA PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Palo Alto, CA

CALIFORNIA

Excerpts from a Fisher House Supporter Letter As a senior at Woodside Priory School in Portola Valley, CA, I wanted to do something to help our military and raise awareness of some of the issues that they face upon returning from combat. Numerous members of my family had served in our military, and ever since I was little, their stories fascinated and intrigued me. With this kind of motivation in mind, I looked for a charity to support and, luckily, I came across the Palo Alto Fisher House.

ARIZONA

CALIFORNIA

I knew that this was a remarkable organization full of extraordinary people who dedicated their lives to serving our veterans, and I decided to organize a cocktail fundraiser for the Palo Alto Fisher House and, hopefully, highlight the outstanding efforts of this local organization. It turned out to be a wonderful evening full of emotion, appreciation, and a deep respect for the Fisher House and our veteran. The event raised $31,450.

S OUTHERN ARIZONA VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

CAMP PENDLETON

Tucson, AZ Chris Cobb of Tucson scaled the former Mt. McKinley, now known as Denali, in Alaska, North America’s highest mountain peak with a summit elevation of 20,300 feet. Chris battled treacherous storms, blizzards, 50 mph winds, and minus 50 degree weather on his 19-day journey to scale the peak.

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Camp Pendleton, CA In March, members of the board of directors and officers of the Southern California Fisher House visited the Camp Pendleton Fisher House. Former Congressman Steven Kuykendall, who serves as the president of the Southern California community group, led the team. LtCol. Stephen Mount, Commanding Officer, of Wounded Warrior Battalion-

SAN DIEGO NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER San Diego, CA As a thank you to the San Diego community for hosting the Biological Innovation Organization (BIO) 2017 International Convention, BIO selected Fisher House San Diego as the recipient of their 5K Run for Health benefit. The core mission of BIO’s members is to heal, fuel, and feed the world. In many ways, Fisher House’s mission is the same for military personnel and their families. Fisher House San Diego was presented a $15,000 check at the start of the Run/Walk on June 19.

I extend my deepest appreciation to James Crabtree and his staff at the Palo Alto Fisher House as well as, VA chaplain Anamae Taubeneck. I am very grateful these courageous individuals are still serving our country with gallantry and honor. Sincerely, Matthew Carusi

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HOUSE ROUND-UP DAVID GRANT USAF MEDICAL CENTER Travis AFB, CA Travis Fisher House became the site of a rescue operation. A mother duck and her eight ducklings were crossing between the Fairfield VA Clinic and Travis Fisher House II. The mother led her ducklings over a grate and the babies fell through the grate openings, causing mother duck to protest loudly. Rosa, a housekeeper at Travis Fisher House II, noticed the commotion. She saw some workmen from J & J Contractors, who provide maintenance for David Grant Medical Center, and she asked them if they could help save the ducklings. They readily sprang into action to save the ducklings. The babies scattered when the men lowered themselves into the grate, but they patiently rescued each one. Then the mother duck took charge of her children, and everyone cheered. The compassion displayed by the workmen for these ducks touched everyone’s heart. This is just a small example of the compassion that abounds in the Travis community, resulting in the awesome support Travis Fisher House receives!.

Team brings about the best of what America offers — great Americans all!

F LO R I DA

KENTUCKY

JAMES A. HALEY VETERANS’ HOSPITAL

BLANCHFIELD ARMY COMMUNITY

Tampa, FL

Fort Campbell, KY

Every year, without fail, the staff in the Vascular Lab’s Surgery, Nursing and Administration sections at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa provides a “down home” country picnic for the guests at the Fisher House. The feast includes a wide range of meats, gourmet breads and rolls, cold salads, beverages and scrumptious desserts. The employees eagerly plan this annual tradition because many of the patients seen by their service have families who stay in the Fisher House. Not only do the families enjoy the wonderful spread but leave the luncheon truly feeling loved by these thoughtful and generous hospital employees.

We were lucky enough to be in a great location for a front row seat to the 2017 solar eclipse. The Fort Campbell Fisher House celebrated the occasion by hosting a Solar Eclipse Picnic on the front lawn and shared the day with our guests, volunteers, patients and hospital staff. Of course, we had food and snacks throughout the afternoon but mostly just relaxed and enjoyed each other’s company while witnessing this natural phenomenon that occurs maybe once or twice in our lifetime.

GEORGIA

DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Fort Gordon, GA We’d like to thank members of the Georgia Council of Chapters, Georgia Military Officers Association of America (GMOAA). On May 31, Col. (Ret), US Army, Donald G. Stephens, president of the Augusta Chapter of MOAA, represented the state president of GMOAA, and along with Maj. (Ret). Coke Geddings, past president of the chapter, and Chaplain (Col.) Charles Howell, Chaplain of the Georgia Council, stopped by the Fort Gordon Fisher House and made a check presentation of $500. They were also given a tour and briefing on the Fisher House.

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I am proud to say we have supported Fisher House Foundation through the CFC campaign for many years. And no regrets — Fisher House delivered with true excellence in our time of need.

MARYLAND

WALTER REED NATIONAL MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER Bethesda, MD Excerpts from a Fisher House Guest Letter Never in our wildest imagination did my wife and I think we would find ourselves as happy and forever grateful recipients of the outstanding benefits of Fisher House. When news came for an unplanned major surgery at the medical center, it meant a two-week stay for us, given that our home is in O’ahu, HI. But with God’s good grace and the responsive, caring assistance from Fisher House, we had nothing to worry about. Without a doubt, staying at Fisher House was the most tranquil and enabling factor to my fast recovery. Moreover, my wife needed the respite from the stresses of being a caregiver, and the blessing of Fisher House amenities and its family support activities were nothing short of world class. I will venture to say that Fisher House is one of the happiest places on earth. The exchange of smiles and jokes are contagious, and spirits are uplifted — more good medicine. The Fisher House

I have seen firsthand what families go through, how they weather their own challenges for “healing beyond the hospital” with their loved ones. Fisher House helped all of them, and us, through the rigors of post-surgery, greatly improving our collective convalescence.

N E W YO R K

STRATTON VA MEDICAL CENTER Albany, NY There has been considerable support provided to our Fisher House in Albany, NY, during the spring months! Our patio received a complete makeover due to the kindness of many. The project was spearheaded by Samantha Morrison, who chose our home for her Girl Scout Gold Award project. Sam spent many hours gathering donations, selecting and installing furniture, flowers and a new grill. In addition, Sam, her family and her entire troop visited for an opening celebration, which included a gourmet meal for guests and much needed supplies for our home. Shortly after, a group of masons and contractors led by local Vietnam veterans beautifully refurbished the patio surface. Big thanks to: Tom Murray, Thomas Marinello, Sr., Thomas Marinello, Jr., Peter Nardolillo, Don Mazzarello, John Gadani, Joe Pollicino, Bill Wakeman, Tom Jenkins Excavating and Callanan Industries.

NORTH CAROLINA

CAMP LEJEUNE NAVAL HOSPITAL Camp Lejeune, NC The Brownies and Daisies of the Camp Lejeune-New River Girl Scouts honored our Fisher House while working for their latest patches. The girls not only raised the funds necessary to make a donation, they also made shopping lists, a budget, and went shopping to fill our pantries. The girls brought healthy and delicious food for our pantries and made crock pot meals for the families. Their visit wouldn’t have been complete without bringing us some Girl Scout cookies, too.

MISSOURI

ST. LOUIS VA MEDICAL CENTER St. Louis, MO The Holly family was at Fisher House for an overnight stay, and they checked in after hours. The mom came to see me that next morning to let me know that they would be checking out soon. Their room was down the hall from my office, and when she returned she must have told her boys to get prepared to go because they were leaving and suddenly I heard the saddest cry with the sweetest plea, ‘No mommy, please, I don’t want to go, I don’t ever want to leave here.’ As he said it over and over, I had to go to the door just to see if I was hearing him correctly. I told the boys I had something for them. Before they left, they stopped by the office, and her son Paxton was still teary. Once I gave him the McDonald’s gift card, the middle son, Owen, said, ‘Oh wow thank you. Look Paxton, you love McDonald’s,’ and he smiled long enough to take a picture for me. — Vanniecia Brown, FH Manager

OREGON

VA PORTLAND HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Vancouver, WA Jeanette Erbe has been a guest at the Fisher House since October 2016 and did not realize the major life change she was about to experience when she began her stay. Her husband, Daniel Erbe, a Vietnam Army veteran, underwent major surgery which resulted in extensive rehabilitation at the VA Portland Health Care System Community Living Center. The Erbes live over 400 miles away, and the doctors asked if they could remain in the area so they could continue being a part of Daniel’s treatment plan. Every day, from morning until late at night, Jeanette was by Daniel’s side. Jeanette said, “Being able to stay at the Fisher House these many months has helped us more than words can express. Those who have stayed at the Portland VA Fisher House have touched my heart with such love. Each guest has a story to tell as we bond THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

HOUSE ROUND-UP OREGON

and help each other through good and bad days. We are a Fisher House family, and this includes the Fisher House staff. We need each other and will never forget each other. Fisher House has provided a great service in our time of need and has taken away much stress and challenges we face each day.”

CARL R. DARNALL ARMY MEDICAL CENTER Fort Hood, TX Ray Medrano from TLI & Environmental Services Inc. has been supporting the Fisher House at Fort Hood since the home’s renovation and is currently volunteering to update our landscape. Pictured are Michael Roy (former US Marine) and Raul Maldonado, who have personally been trimming all green areas and planting new additions in order to make our house more attractive. They have been a great addition to the Fisher House family and we want to recognize their hard work and dedication.

were going to start with. All of a sudden, a biker stood up and said “Give them all to Fisher House!” Soon after, everyone was standing up shouting, “Yes, give them all to Fisher House!” The leaders then looked over to me and said, “These are all for you. Give them to your families. Let them know we are thinking about them.” After watching how much money people were spending on raffle tickets hoping for great prizes, and then to give them all away, was powerful. It moved me to tears. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of a mission to support our military and veteran families during the most difficult times. At times, it is heart wrenching, but most of the time it is beautiful. - Quinn Kinger-Good, FH Manager

TEXAS

VA NORTH TEXAS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Dallas, TX Knowing the mission and function of Fisher House, Cynthia Garcia was on a mission of her own when she began her vision of ‘Adam’s Corner’ at the Dallas Fisher House. Ms. Garcia is a Gold Star Mother, and her own family stayed at the Landstuhl Fisher House when her son was killed in Afghanistan in 2006. The Fisher House quickly became a second family, and her young daughter spent lots of time there. Cynthia began thinking how other families with young children could benefit from her family’s experience. ‘Adam’s Corner’ was specifically designed for children to help occupy their time and give them their own space — and one that is just their size! Thanks to Cynthia Garcia and the Veterans Network Employee Resource Group at NBC 5 and Telemundo 39 for their contribution, complete with books, games, movies and coloring books.

U TA H

SALT LAKE CITY VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Salt Lake City, UT It begins during a motorcycle ride: two motorcycle groups working together for one cause — the Immortal Knights and Bikers for a Cause supporting Fisher House. The event was packed with motorcycles, riders, lunch, donations and raffles. However, the highlight took place during the raffle, in which families spent huge amounts of money in hopes of wining amazing prizes. About half way through, I spoke about Fisher House and what their support means to our families. I shared my most precious story with them, about a woman who lost her husband during her stay and how all the other families met her at the front door to embrace her after he passed away. After my presentation, the raffle resumed. They had a thick stack of gift cards they

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PASSING OF THE

U TA H

VIRGINIA

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER, PORTSMOUTH Portsmouth, VA CDR T. C. Smith of the Williamsburg Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) reported to the Fisher House on May 3 for a check presentation and tour. This group, as a part of a national organization of combat wounded veterans whose mission is to raise the visibility of veteran-related issues and to raise funds in support of local organizations supporting veterans, decided to support the Fisher House because of its mission and dedication to the families of both the critically ill active duty member and our veterans. It was such a humbling and honorable experience to be chosen by such a distinguished group. Thank you, MOPH Chapter#1754, for your kindness and service to our country.

FLAG Photos by Ashley Estill

HAZENTREE VETERANS DAY GOLF TOURNAMENT Fort Bragg Fisher House manager Lorie Southerland is presented a check from Carol Dubia, who coordinated the Hazentree Veterans Day Golf Tournament, whose proceeds benefitted Fisher House. Carol and the Hazentree Women’s Golf Association look forward to their second annual tournament this coming Veterans Day!

On July 12, the Invictus Games flag was officially passed from the United States to Canada, the 2017 host country. The passing of the flag from Team US to Team Canada cocaptains charges Toronto with the responsibility of putting on an event that shines a light on the unconquerable spirit of wounded warriors from around the world. The Invictus Games use the power of adaptive sport to help wounded warriors on their journey to recovery. Established by Prince Harry, the inaugural Invictus Games took place in London in September 2014; the second, and equally successful, Games took place in Orlando in May 2016. This year the Games are being hosted by Canada in Toronto. Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation and Chairman of the 2016 Orlando Invictus Games, and Michael Burns, CEO of Invictus Games Toronto 2017, were present when Team US and Team Canada co-captains and their friends and family took part in the presentation and shared the power of sport and the important role of families in the healing process. “No one goes to war and comes back unchanged. For some people, these changes mean months, even years, of arduous rehabilitation,” said Fisher. “Because the Invictus Games are about overcoming these challenges and celebrating accomplishments, each competitor taking part brings with them an inspirational story of triumph.”

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

COMMUNITY GROUPS

IN ACTION

DEDICATIONS & GROUNDBREAKINGS: • MICHAEL E. DEBAKEY VA MEDICAL CENTER III Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, TX

At Fisher House Foundation, we have the support of community groups throughout the country who support their local Fisher House, or raise funds and awareness for a future Fisher House in their area. Here are some highlights.

• JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON HOSPITAL II • JAMES J. PETERS VA MEDICAL CENTER

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX

GROUNDBREAKING Joint Base Elmendor-Richardson Hospital, Anchorage, AK

James J. Pet ers

VA Medical Center, NY

The Air Force Hospital in Anchorage serves patients from across the region, in addition to a co-venture with the VA medical center. Treating a large number of military personnel means that another Fisher House was needed to help support the families of these service members and veterans. Ground was broken on a second Fisher House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. The new home will provide additional lodging for up to 16 families per night.

Fisher House Foundation helped break ground on two new Fisher Houses at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center (Bronx, NY). The two homes will serve up to 1,200 families a year, saving them more than $3 million. They will be the first Fisher Houses in NYC. For more information about these homes, visit www.fisherhouse.org/bronx.

James J. Peters VA Medical Center, NY

AK ichardson, R f r o d en Elm Joint Base

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

Recently, there was as veteran who went to the clinic in Lake City, FL, only to be told that he couldn’t go home. He was going to be transported to Gainesville, to the Malcom Randall VA Hospital for heart surgery. He had just come of a routine checkup the day before his daughter’s wedding and fully expected to be able to share in the festivities and walk her down the aisle. As a veteran, he was doubly proud, not only because his daughter had served in the military but because his future son-in-law had also served in the military. Despite his health problems, this military wedding went on, unfortunately without him. The couple was not going to go off on a honeymoon with dad in the hospital for heart surgery. They instead spent their honeymoon at the Fisher House in Gainesville. It was our pleasure to make their stay a little more like a honeymoon, so we sent them to a nice dinner and provided movies tickets and a walk through the butterfly garden. Kindness during a stressful situation goes a very long way for military families. The couple (and veteran) could not say enough about how wonderful the house was and the thoughtfulness provided to them.

Eglin AFB, FL Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, Inc. Each year, Rob Reyes of Stripes Pub and Grill hosts a pub crawl to raise awareness and funds in support of Fisher House on Eglin AFB. Rob, a veteran, began this event in 2011 and quickly gained the support of the Navarre community. Through his efforts, the Navarre Beach Pub Crawl has raised $14,326 to date and has also inspired others to start this popular event in their communities for Fisher House. Rayvon Bufkin, founder of Eye of the Beerholder in Wisconsin, served with Rob and now hosts a successful crawl each year. We are blessed with community partners with big hearts who believe like we do that family is the best medicine!

St. Louis, MO

James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY

Veterans’ organizations are some of the best supporters of the Fisher Houses. After all, their mission is to support veterans, and the Fisher Houses are a perfect “marriage.” On June 24th, Chris Stanley, the Executive Director of Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc., went to the AMVETS Post 51 in the small farming town of Thornville, OH. This was the third year they hosted a golf tournament, poker run, raffles, an auction and a band to benefit the Fisher Houses. They had 120 golfers, 109 riders in the poker run and their patio on the shore of Buckeye Lake was overflowing with attendees and bidders. In 2016, they raised $25,384 and had a goal of raising $30,000 in 2017. They exceeded that by raising $32,000 this year.

Gainesville Fisher House Foundation

Gainesville, FL

Center, TX A Medica l V ey ak eB D Michael E.

In Houston, they serve the needs of so many veterans throughout their vast medical complexes. Thus, there was an equal need for an additional Fisher House at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center to help support the veterans’ families traveling for treatment. In May, a third Fisher House was dedicated to fulfill that need. The VA in Houston is the first VA medical center to have three Fisher Houses. Thank you to all the donors, staff, volunteers and supporters who made this new 16-suite home a reality.

Dayton, Ohio

DEDICATING

Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc., Wright-Patterson AFB (and future Dayton VA Medical Center)

St. Louis Fisher House June 8 was a perfect day for the Fourth Annual Fisher House Golf Tournament at Forest Park in St Louis, MO. The 140 golfers who paid to enter made this the most successful tournament yet, raising $32,000 for the St. Louis Fisher House. Everyone had a great time with lunch, golf, dinner and both silent and live auctions. A local businessman, Jim Sheets, and his family organized the tournament and auctions. The all-volunteer tournament committee solicited sponsors, players and on-course volunteers. The golfers enjoyed the camaraderie and competition, and most vowed to return for next year’s tournament. The live and silent auctions were major contributors to the financial success of the event, helped by Guy Phillips, a popular radio celebrity, who served as auctioneer. His humor and personal support for the Fisher House encouraged participants to purchase donated MLB tickets, golf packages, and a host of unique items. The highlight of the day was a helicopter ball drop, where donors could purchase numbered golf balls for $10 each. After the golf match, a helicopter hovering at 40 feet, dropped hundreds of golf balls on to the chipping green. The first ball into the cup won 10 percent of the ball drop sales. The winner, Judith Hanses, is an American Legion Post Commander and a strong supporter of the St. Louis Fisher House. Over $5,000 in food and personal items were also donated to the Fisher House and the VA’s homeless programs. THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

DOWN

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

The following projects are currently in design or under construction:

Elmendorf AFB, AK (second house)

JBER Hospital

Orlando VA Medical Center Orlando, FL James A. Haley Veterans Hospital Tampa, FL (second house) Keesler Medical Center Keesler AFB, MS (second house) James J. Peters VA Medical Center Bronx, NY (two houses) Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Charleston, SC

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

ALASKA

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

ILLINOIS

NEVADA

TEXAS

JBER Hospital 4943 Zeamer Ave. JBER, AK 99506 (907) 222-1673 Manager: Jenny Hall jennifer.hall.24@us.af.mil

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

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

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System 6900 N. Pecos Rd. North Las Vegas, NV 89086 (702) 224-6789 Manager: Cadie Franco cadie.franco@va.gov

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

ARIZONA

FLORIDA

KENTUCKY

Southern Arizona VA Health Care System 3601 S. 6th Avenue (9-135) Tucson, AZ 85723 (520) 838-3680 Manager: Kelly Laurich arizona.fisherhouse@va.gov

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System 10000 Bay Pines Blvd. Bay Pines, FL 33744 (727) 398-6661 x11350 fax: (727) 319-1106 Manager: Shentrela Diggins Shentrela.diggins@va.gov

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

NEW YORK Albany Stratton VA Medical Center 113 Holland Ave. Albany, NY 12208 (518) 626-6919 fax: (518) 626-5452 Manager: Michael Fitzpatrick Michael.Fitzpatrick3@va.gov

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Bldg. 36015 Fisher Ln. Fort Hood, TX 76544 (254) 286-7927 fax: (254) 286-7929 POC: MAJ Eli Torres eli.torres.mil@mail.mil

CALIFORNIA

Eglin Air Force Hospital 350 Boatner Rd. Eglin AFB, FL 32542 (850) 883-2865 Manager: Marc Ambrose marc.ambrose@us.af.mil

MARYLAND

NORTH CAROLINA

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

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

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 VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System 11301 Wilshire Blvd. (10AF) Bldg 523 Los Angeles, CA 90073 (310) 268-4457 fax: (310) 268-3499 Manager: Sharon Hudson sharon.hudson4@va.gov

West Haven, CT

VA Connecticut Healthcare System

FISHER HOUSE DIRECTORY

VA Palo Alto Health Care System 3801 Miranda Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94304 (650) 493-5000 x. 60384 fax: (650) 849-1269 Manager: James Crabtree james.crabtree@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 Asst. Manager: Lori Erickson lorene.l.erickson.naf@mail.mil Naval Hospital Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Building 2014 San Jacinto Rd. Oceanside, CA 92058 (760) 763-5308 Manager: Kiana Bright kiana.bright@usmc.mil VA Long Beach Healthcare System 5901 East 7th Street (FH) Long Beach, CA 90822 (562) 826-5905 Manager: Lana Toenjes Lana.toenjes2@va.gov

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

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

Fisher House for Families of the Fallen 220 Lajes St. Dover AFB, DE 19902 (302) 677-5317 Manager: TSgt. Dorothy Whitfield Dorothy.whitfield@us.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 Miami VA Healthcare System 1201 NW 16th St. Miami, FL 33125 (305) 575-7260 fax: (305) 575-7261 Acting Manager: Ana Bravo ana.bravo@va.gov North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System 1601 SW Archer Rd. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 548-6492 Manager: Michelle Howard kimberly.howard@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.prickett2@va.gov

Womack Army Medical Center Walter Reed National Military Medical 3120 Loop Rd. Center I, II, III, IV, V Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000 24 Stokes Rd. (910) 432-1486 fax: (910) 432-3825 Bethesda, MD 20814-5002 Manager: Lorie Southerland (301) 295-5334 fax: (301) 295-5632 fbfisherhouse@aol.com Manager: Michael Ybarra mybarra@fisherhousebethesda.org

OHIO

Walter Reed – Forest Glen Annex 2460 Linden Ln. Bldg 173 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 319-5442 fax: (301) 295-8012 Manager: Maurice Borde wrafh.fg1@gmail.com

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

GEORGIA

MINNESOTA

Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center One Freedom Way Augusta, GA 30904 (706) 729-5773

Minneapolis VA Health Care System I, II 1 Veterans Dr. Minneapolis, MN 55417 (612) 467-5602 fax: (612) 970-5864 Manager: Jessica Peterson jessica.peterson@va.gov

Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center Fisher House Rd. - Bldg 280 Fort Gordon, GA 30905-5650 (706) 787-7100 fax: (706) 787-5106 Manager: Francisco Cruz fheamc@aol.com

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

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

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

OREGON VA Portland Health Care System 1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98661 (513) 220-8262 x. 57685 Manager: Barbara Decoito-Weaver barbara.decoito-weaver@va.gov

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

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

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

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center I, II, III 2002 Holcombe Blvd. Houston, TX 77030 (713) 794-8095 fax: (713) 794-7194 Manager: Frank Kelley frank.kelley@va.gov

Madigan Army Medical Center I, II 9999 Wilson Ave. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433 (253) 964-9283 fax: (253) 968-3619 Manager: Pamela Barrington manager@fisherhouse-jblm.org

VA North Texas Health Care System 4500 S. Lancaster Rd. Bldg 79 Dallas, TX 75216 (214) 857-2574 fax: (214) 462-4923 Manager: Lydia Henderson lydia.henderson1@va.gov

VA Puget Sound Health Care System 1660 South Columbian Way Seattle, WA 98108 (206) 768-5353 fax: (206) 277-1415 Manager: Stephanie Kocer stephanie.kocer@va.gov

South Texas Veterans Health Care System 7485 Wurzbach Road San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 617-5300 x. 16626 Manager: Erik Zielinski erik.zielinski@va.gov Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center I, II, III San Antonio Military Medical Center 1445 Foster Ave. Bldg 3865 Lackland AFB, TX 78236 (210) 671-6037 fax: (210) 671-6020 Manager: Philip Harralson AHM-FisherHouse@sbcglobal.net William Beaumont Army Medical Center Bldg 7360 Rodriguez St. El Paso, TX 79930 (915) 569-1860 fax: (915) 569-1862 Manager: Alice Coleman alice.m.coleman2.naf@mail.mil

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

WISCONSIN Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center 5000 W. National Ave. Bldg 150 Milwaukee, WI 53295 (414) 384-2000 x. 44570 Manager: Jennifer Kiefer Jennifer.kiefer@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

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

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 • 2017

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

Because we

our heroes.

For more than 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 70 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

The Patriot Magazine Volume 8 Issue 2

Articles inside

Hearts in the Community

The Patriot Magazine Volume 8 Issue 2