DAY IN THE LIFE
2021 PHOTO CONTEST Each year the Foundation sponsors a “Day in the Life” photo contest to visually showcase the Fisher House mission. It’s often hard to describe the trials, camaraderie, and bonds formed, so we’ve reached out to the Fisher Houses to help show that through photos. Here, we highlight the winners.
OVERALL WINNER Alaska Fisher House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Maddox has a story to tell as he was born 10 weeks early at 2 pounds, 5 ounces. Being bedside throughout Maddox's journey has allowed his parents to perform kangaroo care, an essential skin-to-skin contact between parent and baby. This contact promotes bonding and stabilizes the baby, allowing Maddox to grow and thrive. His mom and dad are forever grateful for the Fisher House and the opportunity to continue to work during their visit so they can take maternity leave when Maddox returns home.
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VA St. Louis Health Care System Fisher House Sweet baby AvaMae Bland was the St. Louis Fisher House's first pandemic baby. They knew baby AvaMae would not be able to make a grand entrance into the Fisher House. Nevertheless, the opportunity to be a part of those sweet tender moments with AvaMae’s hero (her dad) was a blessing, and the gift of being born on his birthday was the icing on the cake.
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Washington, D.C. VA Medical Center Fisher House Thomas and Michelle Queen were visiting while Thomas underwent tests to monitor his health. The couple has been together 40 years, working through Thomas’ multiple sclerosis and two tough cancer fights.
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Naval Medical Center San Diego Fisher House Natalia Villegas was born at the San Diego Fisher House. She was a little sick when the photo was taken, but her sweet smile is still visible as her parents beam.
These are just the winners from our votes! There are more photo submissions on our website at fisherhouse.org. Do you think you have a great photo from your Fisher House stay? Photos taken between May 2021 and May 2022 are eligible for our next photo contest. Let your house manager know if you have a great shot that you'd like to share. 8
THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 2 • 2021
