Fall 2023 The Patriot

FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION

CHAIRMAN AND CEO

Kenneth Fisher PRESIDENT

David A. Coker

CHIEF OF STAFF

Mary Considine

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Michelle Horn

MANAGING EDITOR

David Nye

COPY EDITOR

Blake Stilwell

LAYOUT AND ART DIRECTION

Gifted Eye Designs

giftedeyedesigns.com

Address all correspondence to:

The Patriot Fisher House Foundation

12300 Twinbrook Parkway, Suite 410

Rockville, MD 20852

Phone: (301) 294-8560

Fax: (301) 294-8562

Email: info@fisherhouse.org

www.fisherhouse.org

Cover Photo: Cover photo by Craig Orsini at orsinistudio.com

About Fisher House Foundation, Inc.

Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of comfort homes where military and veteran 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 they serve. 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 its inception, the program has saved military and veteran families an estimated $575 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.

Fisher House Foundation also operates the Hero Miles program, using donated frequent flyer miles and funds to bring family members to the bedside of injured service members, as well as the Hotels for Heroes program, using donated hotel points and dollars to allow family members to stay without charge at hotels near medical centers. The Foundation also manages an awards program that helps other military charities and scholarship funds for military children, spouses, and children of fallen and disabled veterans.

Fisher House Foundation, Inc. is 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 permitted by law.

Fisher House Program

BY THE NUMBERS

$575 MILLION Savings for families in lodging and transportation costs

12 MILLION+ Days of lodging offered

455,000 Families served

95 Fisher Houses in operation

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

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

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 graphic designers at Gifted Eye Designs donate 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.

LETTER FROM KEN FISHER

Dear Friends,

Every year, there are more and more milestones to celebrate. As we approach our 100th Fisher House, it is easy to reflect on the impact that together we have made for our greatest national treasure: our service men and women and their loved ones. With your help, we have saved military and veteran families more than $575 million — an achievement we should all celebrate!

In 2023, we commemorated the 30-year anniversaries of Fisher Houses at Fort Liberty, North Carolina (formerly Fort Bragg) and Fort Eisenhower, Georgia (formerly Fort Gordon). It’s hard to believe, but it has been 15 years since Fisher Houses were opened in Dallas, Texas; Richmond, Virginia; and Puget Sound, Washington. Along with houses in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and San Antonio, Texas, 10 years ago, we dedicated the UK house honoring our nation’s partnership with one of our most important allies. This year marks five years since we opened houses in Orlando, Florida; Dayton, Ohio; and West Haven, Connecticut.

Over the summer we completed a Fisher House in Columbia, Missouri, growing our network to 95 houses.

With your help, we won’t slow down.

Construction is nearly complete in Bay Pines, Florida and has begun on a second house at the VA in San Antonio, Texas, and a new location in Memphis, Tennessee. We also plan to break ground in Detroit, Michigan by the end of the year.

Just after the new year, we will reach one of the biggest milestones when construction begins on #100 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Thank you for joining us as we celebrate the creation of a network that has done so much for families that deserve our respect, admiration, and care. As we move forward on the Road to 100 Fisher Houses, we are grateful to have you by our side.

Thank you,

Kenneth Fisher  Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation @kenfisherfhf

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 watchdog organizations.

Fisher House Foundation received an A+ from CharityWatch in its veterans and military category. Only three military and veteran charities currently hold this distinctive A+ rating.

Charity Navigator awarded the Foundation its coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management for the 19th consecutive year, a rating achieved by less than 1% of the charities in the country that it monitors. Only 13 charities have been so highly rated for 19 years.

Fisher House Foundation earned the 2023 Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition offered by Candid, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information. Additionally, WalletHub selected Fisher House Foundation as the Best Charity to Donate to for Veterans in 2021 and 2022.

SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/fisherhouse

We asked what you loved most about Fisher House. Here are your responses:

“Fisher House St. Louis has been an absolutely wonderful experience for myself and my wife during my last year of tests, and I'm currently here after surgery and during daily out-patient visits. My wife was here for 30 days while I had surgery and recovery, made my stay much less stressful knowing she was at the Fisher House. The entire staff is amazing and compassionate” — David

Blasé

“I had the blessing of experiencing the Fisher House in person during my chemo treatments. They are absolutely amazing! Thank you for the amazing care you gave me!!!” — Cathy

Schott

“I know that I say the same thing all the time but it true and it's how I feel about the Fisher House. Thank you for all you do for our veterans and their families and mine .” — Marshall

Gresham

“The Fisher House will always be special to our family. They were our lifesaver when we had a family emergency.” — Donna

Davis Tamplet

“I can honestly say I absolutely feel like I’m ‘home’ at Fisher House — my husband and I stay at the one in Houston a lot while he is being treated at MD Anderson — we are so grateful to have this available for our family — thank you!” — Tara Centanni Reese

X, FORMERLY KNOWN AS TWITTER

twitter.com/fisherhousefdtn

“We stayed at Dover Fisher in 2011 when our son came home from Afghanistan. The beautiful home and amazing staff made those dark days a little easier. Bryan was 1 of 6 KIAs in the same battle; the family connections made at Fisher House are still strong 12 years later.” — Elisabeth Burgess (@eiburgess)

“Proud of the continued work you do!” — Izyp (@izzyprice)

“Appreciate all the awesome work you guys are doing out there!” — Rhino (@RhinoSaid)

“Every time I take my dad to the VA, I see the good you do. Thank you.” — Stacey Dunn (@dunnclan)

LINKEDIN

linkedin.com/company/fisher-house-foundation/

“A family's love is good medicine. Thanks for doing what you're doing at Fisher House Foundation. It's amazing to me that you're approaching 100 Fisher Houses built. Congratulations!” — Mike Lennon

“I absolutely love the mission of the Fisher House. It was an honor to work at the Ann Arbor House when they opened. I miss that place. It was the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had.” — John Whittenburg

“It looks absolutely beautiful! As a veteran family member who has stayed at a Fisher House, please know just how much all of the thought and love poured into each house is very appreciated by family members like myself.” — Vanessa Ferguson

“It's an honor to support the families that stay at Fisher Houses around the nation. Thank you, Fisher House Foundation, for the amazing work you do! TogetherWeMakeADifference” — Tee It Up for the Troops

“The Fisher House West Palm Beach was an absolute blessing for our family during our time of need. We will never, ever forget their kindness & hospitality when we needed it most! ” — Kathryn Aspromonti

“Love Fisher House and all you do for these men and women!!” — freedom_lovingamerican

“There is no way you can really "pick" a volunteer. They are all so wonderful. Thanks to each of them & to Laura. Fisher House wouldn't be what it is w/o volunteers.” — jvp1978

“Thank you, Fisher House, for all you do for families!” — dodwarriorgames

If you talk to Army veteran Pat Sherrod-Elliott about her son, Marine Sgt. Sean Joseph Victor, she tells you, “Our son was actually a miracle.”

Sean served eight years in the Marine Corps, traveling to Haiti after a catastrophic earthquake, doing a tour on USS Truman, and living in Japan for two years. He married another service member and had a son.

Veteran Mom Says Marine Son Was Miracle Child

It was only after his service and starting his own family that Sean and his mother learned he had a genetic disease that usually kills its victims as children.

Pat noticed big changes in his appearance and behavior in 2019.

“When I saw him, I immediately thought that he had had a stroke because he had a different look about him.”

It took months at hospitals in Charleston, South Carolina and Bethesda, Maryland to get a diagnosis.

Genetic testing eventually revealed ALD, or Adrenoleukodystrophy. The condition damages the membrane that protects the nerve cells in the brain. People born with ALD usually do not make it through childhood, which is what made Sean’s case a miracle. It never affected him through his military career.

“Initially I was shocked because Sean had never been sick,” Pat said.

Pat stayed in the Fisher Houses in Charleston and Bethesda while supporting her son.

Left: Pat Sherrod-Elliott holds a photo of her son, Sgt. Sean Joseph Victor. Pat stayed at Fisher House while her son battled a genetic disease.

Story by Christy Wilcox

Photos by Fisher House Foundation

“I did not want to travel back and forth every day. It was truly a blessing to have the opportunity to be here in Charleston,” she said.

At the Fisher House in Charleston, Pat said she did not have to worry about transportation or meals. It helped her to focus on her son’s needs.

“It gave me peace of mind because if I had to travel every day, I think I probably would've lost it because of the stress of his condition,” she said, "not knowing exactly what it was, how it was going to affect him, how long it was going to last, what kind of treatment he would need."

While Sean was in Maryland, Pat also stayed at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

“I have nothing but good things to say about not only the house, but the staff. They were supportive. They were compassionate.”

“There was always someone there to listen with no judgment, just listen and be very supportive,” she said. “So, I was very happy with the Fisher House in Maryland.”

Pat says when Sean learned of his terminal condition, he was brave. He never broke down in front of her.

“He passed away at the age of 34,” she said. “He loved God, loved his country, loved being a Marine, and he was a beloved father. I have a 6-year-old grandson who looks exactly like him. So, every time I look at his picture, I see my son.”

“I want everyone to know that the Fisher House, as I said, and I can't say it enough, it's truly a blessing to families during their time of need.”

Photos on this page: Pat shares her story at the Columbia, South Carolina VA Fisher House Dedication Ceremony in April 2023.

Meet the Program Manager:

Jennifer Halter, VA Fisher House and Family Hospitality Program National Program Manager

The Program Managers are employees of the Departments of Defense or Veterans Affairs who manage all house managers affiliated with their branch.

Many veterans voice their desire to find a way to continue to serve after leaving the military, and that is exactly what Air Force retiree Jennifer Halter did.

Long before she became the VA’s Fisher House and Family Hospitality Program National Program Manager, Jennifer had a strong call to serve in the military.

She grew up near Green Bay, Wisconsin hearing her father’s stories about serving in the Navy for four years between the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Ready for a life of adventure, she enlisted in the Air Force. After six years, she decided to become a social worker. She attended Northern Michigan University for her Bachelor of Social Work, then received her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Minnesota, and returned to the Air Force.

Among the many adventures of her 20-year career, Jennifer deployed to Iraq with the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division where she provided combat stress and counseling services. It was after this deployment that she experienced firsthand the struggles that service members have when returning from overseas combat tours. Frustrated with the lack of care for her identified physical problems, she decided to retire, but she still wanted to find a way to serve.

“As I was finishing up that last year, I was thinking, I'm not ready to stop serving the people that I've been serving for so many years,” she said. “I know their language; I speak their language. I can empathize with some of the experiences that they've had.”

While working at the Spinal Cord Disorder Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she would often refer her patients to Fisher House. Later, she supervised the Fisher House manager, became more familiar with the mission, and gained an understanding of the policies around VA Fisher Houses and challenges managers sometime face. When she learned the VA National Program Manager position was open, she was excited to apply.

Now, with 33 years in federal service, she enjoys being in a role with people who she describes as genuinely nice and who believe in their mission.

“They genuinely want to help and care for people,” she explained. “Working with people who are all focused on a mission – and no one waivers from that mission. That is what is so cool about being the national program manager.”

Jennifer believes the two biggest skills that are critical to her role of overseeing the 52 VA Fisher Houses are having large organization awareness and being a good coach who doesn’t micromanage.

“The managers do such a really great job of taking care of the guests. They focus on providing genuine hospitality for everyone,” she said.

Story by Michelle Horn

Above: Jennifer Halter at her desk while deployed to Iraq.

MEET THE STAFF

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.

Nelly Diaz Operations Administrative Assistant

Nelly Diaz

AdministrativeOperationsAssistant Rockville,Maryland

Around the office, Nelly is known for her love of South Korean culture, especially the K-pop sensation BTS.

Nelly Diaz is a stage manager, focused on making sure that the cast has what they need, that everyone knows what’s going on, and that tasks are taken care of in a timely manner. About five years ago, Nelly left live performances and made the Fisher House Foundation staff the cast she takes care of instead.

“As a stage manager, I managed props, costumes, led rehearsals, did reports for the director every night, recorded blocking to help the actors, did tech rehearsals, stuff like that,” Nelly said.

One of her favorite productions was a play about sisters from a Caribbean country.

“We did En el Tiempo de las Mariposas (In the Time of the Butterflies), inspired by the true story of the three Mirabal sisters who were murdered for their part in a plot to overthrow the government,” she said. “It was such an honor to work on that play.”

But Nelly worked as a freelancer and wanted more steady work, so she applied to be the operations administrative assistant for Fisher House Foundation — a job that would let her put her stage manager skills to work for military and veteran families.

“When I came here, I took the organizational skills, the admin skills, the note keeping from being a stage manager and used it here. I had to think ahead to what people need and take care of the staff, the same way I used to take care of the cast,” she said.

“I’m so inspired by their music, and I think their fandom creates really great communities. I’ve actually made a lot of friends through social media and, locally, going to their concerts. We connect all the time for events or group chats to keep each other updated. It’s just a really heartwarming environment.”

Nelly studied Korean in college, helping her understand the lyrics and other Korean art. That’s her third language since she learned Spanish from her Salvadorian family.

“I live with my mom and sister and we’re super close. We’re each other’s best friends. We just visited El Salvador earlier this year, and that was amazing. I hadn’t been there for four years, and I missed it.”

“Spanish is our first language. The food we eat at home is Salvadorian 90% of the time. Tortillas are a staple in Salvadorian dishes, and everything we eat, we eat with our hands.”

At left: Nelly Diaz, operations administrative assistant, compares her role to her former job as a stage manager. At bottom right: Nelly poses with the Rodriguez Family at the DoD Warrior Games.

DAY IN THE LIFE 2023 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.

MANAGERS’ CHOICE

Army Fisher House at William Beaumont

Army Medical Center

Phoebe Drewry, at right, and her mother Crystal traveled to Fort Bliss, Texas to support Phoebe's brother, Austin, as he recovered from a head-on collision. The family said that the Fisher House felt like an adopted family.

STAFF PICK 1st RUNNER UP

David Grant U.S. Air Force Medical Center Fisher House

Guest families at the Fisher House on Travis Air Force Base gather around the kitchen island during a prepared dinner.

STAFF PICK 2nd RUNNER UP

Zablocki VA Medical Center Fisher House

Lottie and Robert Speck celebrate their 35th Wedding Anniversary in the ICU at the Milwaukee VA. Lottie has stayed at the Milwaukee Fisher House since November 2022. Photography credit: Kristen Stanley

STAFF PICK 3rd RUNNER UP

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital Fisher House

The Brewer Family is scattered while dad, Marcus, recovers from injuries sustained during his deployment. Normally from Arizona, mom and the kids have stayed in Michigan except for when they travel to Virginia to see dad during his recovery. When they’re all together in the house, dad makes bunny pancakes for the kids and then lets them watch an episode of their favorite show.

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 2023 and May 2024 are eligible for our next photo contest. Let your house manager know if you have a great shot that you’d like to share.

FORMER GUEST VISITS

SAN ANTONIO FISHER HOUSE

Jarrett first stayed at the second house at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas in 2004 while he received treatment for injuries he sustained in Iraq. The following year, his son Tristan was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, and the Jongema family was able to stay together at Fisher House. During those years of medical care for both father and son, Jarrett was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, more than two and a half hours away.

Recently, Jarrett made the decision to have his leg amputated after nearly 20 years of pain and is doing very well. Tristan, now a young man in his twenties, is also in excellent health.

“Fisher House removes a lot of unnecessary worries when faced with multi-day hospital treatment requirements. You’re able to stay, relax, and decompress following the day’s treatment,” explained Jarrett. “Coming from the medical appointments and

then to be able to go back the next day without fear of out-ofpocket expenses or long-distance drives is such a humbling experience. It means a lot to be that close to where you're getting your care and recovery. I can't think of anything better than that. It's an absolutely amazing opportunity and resource for people going through medical challenges, surgical procedures, and recovery.”

Heroes' Legacy Scholarship

Cyrus Gibson is a student at Howard University studying political science. He plans on becoming an environmental lawyer, and the Heroes' Legacy Scholarship is helping him do that. The program awards grants to children of service members killed or 100% disabled since 9/11. It complements Fisher House's Scholarships for Military Children program. Scholarship applications open in December each year. Go to MilitaryScholar.org to learn more.

Right: Jarrett recently visited the Brooke Army Medical Center Fisher Houses. He stands in front of the bust of Zach and Elizabeth Fisher with Fisher House Foundation VP Strategic Initiatives Tish Stropes.

HOLIDAYS AT THE FISHER HOUSE

Fort Cavazos Fisher House

With a full belly, this tiny Fisher House guest was able to nap in front of the tree.

Landstuhl Fisher House

Christmas Letter

The Landstuhl Army Fisher Houses rarely hosts families on Christmas Day. This past Christmas, one family came to the house as their father was admitted to the trauma unit. The Landstuhl Army Fisher House staff quickly stepped in to provide care, compassion, and the magic of Christmas!

Fort Cavazos Fisher House

A surprise holiday visitor, The Grinch, visited families at the Fort Cavazos Fisher House in Texas, formerly Fort Hood.

Ann Arbor

Fisher House

The Bean children brought joy to the other families as they played with Christmas decorations

Orlando VA Medical Center

Fisher House

Disney VoluntEARS help decorate the Orlando VA Medical Center Fisher House every year.

Travis Air Force Base Team Travis members comes together with local community partners each year to decorate and then donate trees, baskets of gifts and more, to benefit the Travis Air Force Base Fisher Houses.

U.S. Air Force photo by Ellen Hatfield

Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The holidays continue well past New Year's in Fisher Houses across the country. At Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Fisher House guests pose in front of a Valentine's Day tree.

Wm.

Zach and Elizabeth Fisher stand amidst the festive decorations at the Columbia South Carolina VA Fisher House in December 2022 during an open house before the new home was dedicated. It became the 94th Fisher House in operation.

Jennings Bryan Dorn

VA Medical Center

FISHER HOUSE SALUTES

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

WHEN MORE CARE IS NEEDED, VETERANS CAN TURN TO OPERATION MEND

The Katz Family had a deep appreciation for service members and veterans that was fortified when they toured the Fisher Houses at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. Wanting to make an impact, they donated toward the construction of new Fisher Houses there, but still felt there was that they could do.

Then, Ronald Katz, a board member at the University of California Los Angeles, and his wife Maddie Katz learned about Cpl. Aaron Mankin, a Marine who suffered serious burns and other trauma in an IED strike. The military medical system took care of the worst of Aaron’s medical needs but didn’t address many of his cosmetic needs. Aaron lost most of his ears, nose, and mouth.

The Katzes, along with their son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Dana Katz, worked with UCLA to form a partnership between the school’s well-respected medical program and Brooke Army Medical Center. The partnership became UCLA Health Operation Mend, and Aaron was the first patient of the organization which offered reconstructive surgery for wounds suffered in military service at no cost, including transportation and accommodations.

“It didn’t just save my life. Operation Mend gave me a life to live: Mine,” Aaron said.

Still, the Katzes felt like there was more they and Operation Mend could do.

Dana Katz, now the volunteer director of community engagement and buddy programs, said they quickly realized that there were more needs beyond the physical.

“In 2009, we brought in psychological health, and in 2012, we added an advanced diagnostics and treatment planning program for traumatic brain injury.”

In 2016, the program became a founding member of the Warrior Care Network, along with Wounded Warrior Project and three other academic medical centers, standing up an intensive treatment program for post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Today, we have four basic programs. We have the specialty care track for physical injuries; a two-week intensive treatment program for PTSD; a two-week intensive treatment program for traumatic brain injury; and, now, what we call “Brain One,” a highly effective one-week brain health assessment,” she said.

Operation Mend takes care of all costs of transportation, accommodations, and care for patients coming from all over the country. The holistic approach includes involving the caregivers as patients in the intensive treatment program for PTSD.

Stories by Michelle Horn

Photos provided by Operation Mend

“We've got the whole of UCLA and all of their specialty resources that we can draw on,” she explained.

Every patient is even matched with a local volunteer as part of the Buddy Program. The buddy helps the patient become familiar with the area and provides social support, which in turn gives more of a sense of community.

Operation Mend continues to grow. They have served 900 veterans and more than 450 caregivers and continue to look for more people in need.

“We're trying to reach more people so they know that we're here. So, if they're struggling with their wounds from their military service, they're not getting the care they need, or they need a second opinion, we can take a look.”

Dana explained that as their patients get older their needs change, too. The wear and tear on veterans’ bodies after years of military service becomes more noticeable, and pain that was tolerable isn’t any longer.

“Military medicine is incredible. We do things at UCLA that they can't do, and they do things that we can't. And, when you talk about different veteran service organizations, we all do different things,” she continued. “The great thing is that we all work together, because we can't all do it by ourselves.”

For more information about Operation Mend, go to uclahealth.org/programs/operationmend. Click on “Get Care” if you or someone you know needs help.

Left Photo: Aaron Mankin and his children, Hunter and Maddie, with Operation Mend founder, Ronald Katz in 2012.

Top Photo: Operation Mend staff, beneficiaries, and their families at a Veterans Day Parade last year.

Middle Right Photo: Aaron with fellow veteran Joey Paulk marching in the parade.

Bottom Right Photo: Joey and his girlfriend.

On May 1, Fisher House Foundation held its major fundraising event, the 20th Annual Fisher House Golf Classic, at The Golf Club at Lansdowne in Leesburg, Virginia.

It all started in 2002 when the late Steve Michael offered two proposals: SAP could provide a $20,000 grant, or he offered to create a golf tournament that would bring other corporate supporters to Fisher House. The event has generated more than $10 million since then. This year, the tournament brought together 250 golfers and supporters, including Medal of Honor recipients and wounded warriors.

“It’s been an honor and privilege to be the chairman of the Fisher House Golf Classic Committee for the past seven years,” said Jonathan Fishbeck. “I am always amazed at the incredible turnout and am grateful to our team that puts this together each year.”

“Fisher House Foundation is grateful to all of the golfers and our dedicated sponsors who came out to golf for good,” said David A. Coker, president of Fisher House Foundation. “This is a fun way to make an impact and give back to our service members, veterans, and their loved ones.”

Fisher House Foundation proudly recognizes the generosity of the following contributors for their extraordinary support of our military and veteran families: Presidential Sponsor: SAP; Platinum Sponsor: Oshkosh Defense; Official Airline: United Airlines; Silver Sponsors: Clayton— Covius Services LLC, Computershare Loan Services, Fisher Brothers, and Tee It Up for the Troops; Refreshments provided by: Rocklands BBQ, PF Chang’s of Arlington, Popeye’s Pepsi Military Sales, and Virginia Eagle.

New Friends Make Fisher House Feel Like Home

Story by Michelle Horn

Photos courtesy Tia Loudin

“It was February 28th of ‘22, we found out daddy had esophageal cancer. And that was it.”

Over a year and a half ago, Tia Loudin and her mother, Pat Wysinger, began their caregiver journey for Tia’s father, Air Force and Vietnam veteran Dale Wysinger. When Dale transferred to the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Houston, Texas, Tia and Pat moved into the Fisher House and have been back and forth ever since for stays that lasted weeks or months at a time while her father’s medical treatment continued and he suffered various complications.

While staying at Fisher House, Tia became close to a small group of ladies who were there to care for their loved ones for a variety of reasons. These friends made all the difference while she spent long days with her dad and supported her mom.

“It humbles you, because it makes you realize the situation you're in may be pretty rough or, depending on what the situation is, may be really, really bad or look bleak or whatever, but there's always somebody else out there struggling too,” she explained. “It doesn't make this person’s struggle more than this person's struggle, but we're all equal in the fact that we're all battling this together.”

Tia shared that on Christmas morning, one of her new friends had been a cafeteria cook at a school for 30 years, so she cooked breakfast on Christmas and again for the New Year.

“On New Year's Day, she cooked the peas and the cabbage and, and you know, everything, and it just kind of felt like home,” she said.

Tia has maintained that connection with the ladies she became closest to by keeping an ongoing group chat where they all check on each other. They hope to meet up on a regular basis so they can catch up in person, too.

“It's the people that are in these houses that are the ones that can truly understand you, so you form bonds. You just have an understanding of something that a lot of people don't,” she said.

Top Photo: Dale Wysinger in his uniform for the Honor Guard.

Middle Photo: Tia and her dad outside of the VA medical center.

Bottom Photo: Dale receives medical care.

West Virginia family remembers former POW’s long recovery

Army Pfc. Jessica Lynch suffered horrific injuries during an ambush, capture, and then captivity as a prisoner of war during the 2003 ground invasion of Iraq. The situation was frightening for the young service member, but it was also gut-wrenching for her loving family 6,000 miles away in West Virginia. Fisher House was there for the Lynch family as they traveled to Germany and then Washington, D.C. to support their wounded soldier.

Deidre "Dee” Lynch, Jessica’s mom, and Greg Lynch, her father, first knew that something was wrong when they turned on the news.

“They were saying that a unit from Fort Bliss had been captured and some were missing,” Dee said. “We didn't know that it was our daughter for sure, but you know, a parent's gut instinct. You think the worst, you think, 'That's my daughter.'"

Soon, their terrible suspicions proved true. Jessica’s family waited, tensely, until a special operations team rescued her from a hospital in Iraq. She remembered how the first person to reach her in the hospital greeted her.

“It makes me very emotional,” Jessica said, “but he handed me an American flag off his uniform and said, ‘We’re Americans. We’re here to take you home.’ And I remember replying with, ‘Yeah, I’m an American soldier, too.’ And they were able to quickly whisk me out of there.”

Jessica suffered a lot of injuries in the ambush and malnutrition in captivity. The Army transported her to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. Her parents were able to meet her there and stayed at Fisher House so they could be near Jessica.

“Just knowing that I was going to be able to have my family there for me was a huge relief,” Jessica said.

Story by David Nye

Photos by Craig Orsini and courtesy of the Lynch Family

Jessica Lynch and her mother, Dee, sit outside the Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center Fisher House in Huntington, West Virginia.

“It was a huge part of my recovery,” she said. “And, it is for most veterans that come back and just need their loved ones, need to see familiar faces, need to see people that they recognize and love surrounding them in that time of need.”

Dee and Greg found their own needs taken care of at the house just steps from the hospital.

“We didn’t know about Fisher House,” Dee said. “We had no clue where we were going to stay, what we would be doing. We were just focusing on Jessica. We didn’t even have coats. Fisher House even found coats for us, because of course it was warm where we left, but when we got to Germany, it was cold.”

“I think it helped her healing because she knew that we were close,” Dee said. “She knew and she didn't have to worry about, ‘Hey, where's mom and dad staying?’ She knew where we were at, that we were right there if she needed us.”

Dee made Jessica’s favorite foods for her whenever she could, trying to help tempt her to eat as her body healed from malnutrition. After they transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., Jessica’s parents had to leave for a short while to care for their youngest child in West Virginia, and house staff stepped in.

“His name was Peter Anderson, and this was when we were at Walter Reed. He just took us under his wing and, when we weren’t there to fix Jessica’s breakfast, he fixed it for her…he fixed her Coco Wheats just the way she wanted them, took them to her every morning.”

“We met amazing people. From the person that came in and mopped the floors to the person that came in and stocked the kitchen, you know, everybody was helpful,” she said. “Everybody wanted to do their part.”

Jessica recovered from the worst of her injuries, separated from the Army, and is now a teacher in West Virginia. She continues to receive medical care and attend physical therapy because of the injuries sustained more than 20 years ago. Her mom hopes that someone can always be there to support her.

“If Jessica needed long-term care 20 years from now, I would hope that there’s a Fisher House beside the facility so that we could be there, or her family, or her daughter could be there.”

“It makes me very emotional,” Jessica said, “but hehanded me an American flag off his uniform and said, ‘We’re Americans. We’re here to take you home.’ And I remember replying with, ‘Yeah, I’m an American soldier, too.’ And they were able to quickly whisk me out of there.”

HERO MILES SUPPORTS FAMILY IN TIME OF CRISIS

Air Force Maj. Dan Campbell and his wife Heather experienced many uncertainties when their 9-year-old son, Isaiah, was diagnosed with a subglottic stenosis, or narrowing of the airway which would require a major surgery. Stationed in remote Alaska, they wondered how to keep the family together for the nearly 2,500-mile journey for his medical care.

“The only thing that is constant for us is us,” Heather said. “Our location changes, whether daddy is home changes, our friends, church, our community, everything about our life is transient. The only thing that is constant is the ability of the five of us to be together.”

Mom of three, Heather explained how important it was for them to be together as a family during Isaac’s surgery and how imperative she felt it was to his recovery.

However, flights from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska to Tacoma, Washington are costly. The Campbells were able to use patient travel to cover the cost of one parent and their son, but that would leave one parent and their two other children behind. That’s when Hero Miles stepped in.

Fisher House Foundation’s Hero Miles program provides round-trip airline tickets to wounded, injured, or ill service members and/or their families who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center. These flights are made possible through frequent flyer mile donations made by generous individual airline passengers. Since the program began in 2004, Hero Miles has provided over 85,000 tickets to military families like the Campbells.

“The home stress is very high trying to prepare for a move, and I have a son who can’t speak for two months,” Heather said. “The process of working with Fisher House Foundation and the Hero Miles program was the only smooth part. It was so simple, and it was done for me. It was the one thing I could take off my brain space so that I could focus on caring for my son.”

Knowing we were all able to be together,” Heather said. Heather has shared her Hero Miles story on social media to help other military spouses and families find support as well as encourage others to support the program.

“Words cannot express my gratitude or convey the burden Hero Miles lifted during my stressful time. Being together meant everything to my family.”

Learn more about the Hero Miles at https://fisherhouse. org/programs/hero-miles/

Story by Rachel Hill

Photos courtesy of Heather Campbell

IN ACTION COMMUNITY GROUPS

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

Fisher House Michigan

The Crucible is a 20+ mile, self-supported endurance hike along back-country trails in Michigan, and proceeds from the May 6 event benefitted Fisher Houses in Michigan. Fisher House Michigan also received funds from the October 2023 Crucible event, when FHM Board President Bill Holmes and staff members Steven Rose and Laura Eastridge tested their mettle on the grueling hike!

Now in its 9th year, the CW04 Stanley Krysiak, USNR, Retired, Memorial Golf Outing took place on Armed Forces Day, May 20. Proceeds from this annual event continue to benefit Greater Cleveland Fisher House — just as they have long before the two Cleveland VA Fisher Houses were even built. The outing is held in honor of our Acting President Theresa (Krysiak) Major’s father, and it is organized in partnership with the Polish Legion of American Veterans, Ladies Auxiliary, Chapter 31 in Cleveland.

This year’s outing well surpassed expectations, with one of the highest amounts ever raised. We were extremely grateful to have more participants and more big-ticket raffle items than years past. That all translates into more assistance for the Fisher House families and more people knowing about Fisher House — always two very good things!

Friends of Fisher House St. Louis

Friends of Greater Cleveland Fisher House

Jim Sheets discussed his service to Fisher House in St. Louis on July 1 with Enterprise Holdings President and CEO Chrissy Taylor. She honored Jim for being an "Exceptional Neighbor" at the St. Louis CITY soccer game during halftime in front of 22,500 fans.

Proud Supporters

the COMMUNITY Comedy captures the heart of Fisher House supporters

Story by Christy Wilcox

Intern John entertains radio listeners on his morning show that airs in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, but when a friend was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, he knew he needed to capture the hearts of more listeners to help her fight this battle. After her diagnosis during basic training, he flew to see her.

“My first thoughts were, there's no way her family can afford airfare and hotels for a year of chemo,” Intern John said.

He knew about Fisher House but didn’t fully understand how important it was for veterans and service members in need of medical attention until his friend got her diagnosis. Intern John comes from a military family, so he was motivated to raise money for the cause.

Seven years ago, he started a standup comedy tour to fundraise for Fisher House in hopes of raising $10,000. It was such a huge success that by the end of this year’s tour, he says the shows should raise nearly ten times the original goal, or $100,000.

The comedy show has been in the famed Warner Theater in Washington, D.C. and has toured other places like Baltimore’s Bowie Baysox stadium, among others. He says meeting the guests attending shows has connected him to his fundraising mission.

“I saw firsthand how much Fisher House does and to see people from all different walks of life who've had the similar experience, it's a very fulfilling thing for us to do.”

For more information about Intern John’s Comedy show called “Find Your Happy” go to: internjohncomedy.com

Corporate and Foundation Giving

A Friend to local Fisher Houses and the Foundation

Pittsburgh Fisher House Manager Heather Frantz says 84 Lumber plays a significant part in giving guests a better home away from home experience, and she appreciates their dedication to military and veteran families. The 84 Lumber family often goes above and beyond by providing meals, decorating for the holidays, and hosting Fisher House guests at local sporting events, like Pirates games.

"I love them. 84 Lumber is an amazing organization and has been phenomenal to the Pittsburgh Fisher House," Heather said.

Company support of Fisher Houses started in 2019 when 84 Lumber hosted its annual Operation Appreciation event near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The event is focused on military and veteran causes, so when a supporter mentioned donating to the Pittsburgh Fisher House, the company wanted to know more. Soon it discovered that Fisher House serves families in many of the same local communities where it has businesses and often supplies materials during the Fisher House construction process. CEO and owner Maggie Hardy says 84 Lumber will always be a military-friendly company, whether hiring veterans or supporting veteran causes.

"The mission of Fisher House Foundation aligns perfectly with our commitment to give back to our service members. This partnership will help extend the foundation’s goodwill to countless more veterans and their families," Maggie said.

In May 2019, during their first check presentation to the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House, the company pledged an additional $500,000 to accommodate more families at Fisher Houses. Since it was Military Appreciation Month, about 40 veterans and their families attended a barbecue, including Steeler and Army veteran Alejandro Villanueva and former Steelers defensive tackle Brett Keisel. Since then, the company has continued to donate and volunteered their time. Now 84 Lumber offers a helping hand in houses around the country, where they also have local businesses.

On #GivingTuesday, they supported Fisher House Foundation with a $100,000 match for the third year in a row, and they have helped build

Fisher Houses in New Orleans, Louisiana, Huntington, West Virginia, and Lexington, Kentucky.

With 14 stores in West Virginia, seeing the groundbreaking at the first Fisher House in Huntington brought more purpose to their mission. From Florida to California, 84 Lumber employees provide meals and get one-on-one interactions with guests willing to share why their support means so much to Fisher House guests.

“It’s truly an honor to support Fisher House and the tremendous work they do for veterans and their families,” Maggie said.

84 Lumber will support #GivingTuesday with a match again this year. Follow Fisher House's social media channels on November 28 to join the conversation.

Story by Christy Wilcox

JOURNAL ENTRIES & LETTERS

Fort Cavazos, TX (Fort Cavazos Army Fisher House)

English translation by another resident:

“Thank you ‘Fisher House’. It’s a pleasure that a place like this exists where one can spend a couple of days with their families in comfort and feeling at home. God bless this place, the people who need this place, and the people who work here. Your kindness and courtesy made for a wonderful stay." Sincerely,

Magda T.

Los Angeles, CA (Greater LA Fisher House)

“To the GLA Fisher House staff, Thank you for all of your support and services while we wait for our son to be gifted a heart for transplant. We have come a long way from Alaska, to Nevada, and finally here to Los Angeles. We will never forget the Hospitality and Kindness shown to us in this difficult time." Thank you, The Yonce family

Landstuhl, Germany (Landstuhl Fisher House)

“Dear Fisher House Team, When we arrived at the Fisher House, we knew we were in kind and caring hands. Our son was airlifted to LRMC (Landstuhl Regional Medical Center) for a medical emergency. The team at the Fisher House took away the burden of us having to manage our own logistics. This allowed us to focus our time and energy on our son. You have truly created a home away from home. We wholeheartedly appreciate your commitment to military families. Fisher House Foundation continues through your dedication to carry out their vision." With sincere gratitude.

Minneapolis, MN (Minneapolis VA Health Care System Fisher House)

“Fisher House has been my safe harbor amidst the storm!! I got an emergency call to come to MN for my dad’s failing health. He was 101 yrs so my husband and I drove the 11 hours from our home to be with him. I got to spend the time with him on the VA hospice unit for four days that are so meaningful to me. After he passed away, we were all able to stay a few more days to pack and move his belongings out of his assisted living apartment and plan the funeral/memorial at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Being at Fisher House gave me the quiet and peace I needed so badly. My dad was a very patriotic, 21-year Navy veteran who enlisted right after Pearl Harbor to serve in WWII. He also served in Korea. I will go home to Kansas to spread the news of Fisher House!" Thanks

Las Vegas, NV (VA Southern Nevada Fisher House)

“What a pleasant surprise and experience. Who knew such an organized, focused, dedicated, and loving facility was available to Veterans in need? I recently needed a rather serious and extensive surgery. The surgical stay and aftercare physical therapy required my wife and I to be seen at the VA Hospital in North Las Vegas for several weeks on an almost daily basis. The Las Vegas Fisher House stepped in and helped so we didn’t need to make the grueling 225-mile round trip from home. They put us up in a suite, provided laundry service, meals and a warm common area that are clean, safe, and comfortable. These people are awesome! Thank you to the founders, Zachery and Elizabeth Fisher, and to Stephanie, Brian, Maria and all the volunteers of the Las Vegas Fisher House." — Rex and Sheri Lowery

Palo Alto, CA (VA Palo Alto Fisher House)

“The Baclayon ‘Ohana (Family) is so very grateful for “all” the wonderful amenities that the Fisher Ohana Foundation has provided for the Military Ohana!! Being so far away from home and being given the opportunity to be comfortable and not having to be concerned about housing. This is a haven that we have been able to concentrate and focus on the Gunney, his open-heart surgery, and recovery. As we return home, the Fisher Foundation will certainly be shared with many. Mahalo VA and Fisher House for the peace of mind and heart I have had during this journey".

Nui Aloha! The Kealoha: Doreen Baclayon ‘Ohana

Many prayers and blessings to you all!!

Military spouse Cindy Laskevichs shares how Fisher House made the difference during her stay in her own words:

Like a Warm Hug at the End of the Day: The Fisher House

People call Fisher House “beautiful,” “wonderful,” “convenient,” and certainly “a home away from home.” It is all of these things and more. For the family members who stay here and the veterans they support and love, it’s nothing short of a miracle.

For two weeks, it has been my role, my labor of love, to be by the side of my Marine — encouraging him, comforting him, and, in small ways, caring for him and watching over him as a helper to the medical staff. Everyday — from the start of visiting hours at the hospital until they made me leave at the end of the day. Smiling for him, speaking positively, assisting in his comfort, and watching that heart monitor for hours on end. And of course, praying — countless prayers for him, the caregivers, and really everyone at the hospital.

Fisher House made that possible. Like a warm hug at the end of the day. The thoughtfulness and care is evident in every room. A caring staff who understand the emotional exhaustion at the end of the day, and worries we sometimes don’t want to acknowledge.

Other guests also know, also “get it.” We can share, commiserate, understand, and support one another.

Fisher House allows these daily miracles to happen. Fisher House supports and strengthens the loving families who help our veterans heal.

A heartfelt thank you! And God Bless!

Army welcomescouple premature baby boy

Story by David Nye Photos courtesy of the Childs Family

“They said there's no chance the baby would survive, so you just call my husband,” Brandy Childs told her boss when she came back to work as a substitute teacher after her water broke at 19 weeks.

Sgt. 1st Class Allen Childs and his wife had wanted a baby for years. But their pregnancy was a tough one. Brandy had a large fibroid pressing on her uterus that reduced the space available for Owen to grow and possibly led to her water breaking so early.

She didn’t go into labor, but her son was no longer getting the benefits of amniotic fluid. Doctors told the expectant parents that they needed to prevent labor for as long as possible. They made it another 11 weeks before greeting their beautiful boy, Owen. Those 11 weeks were key, allowing Owen to develop more, but he was still born at just 30 weeks and with underdeveloped lungs.

“The doctors basically said he shouldn't have survived. They said the fact that I stayed pregnant that long is what saved him,” Brandy said.

“We knew [Owen] would have some hospital time, but we didn’t know how long it would be,” Brandy said. Their original estimate was at least until Owen would have been full-term, but Owen needed care at the Children’s National Hospital for months past his original due date.

In the final weeks of the pregnancy and the first months after birth, the parents were able to stay at the Walter Reed at Forest Glen Army Annex Fisher House and the Washington D.C. VA Fisher House, cutting down on their stress, letting them stay as close as possible to their vulnerable boy, and allowing them to focus on healing and growing as a family.

And Owen needed his family’s support. He required two chest tubes when he was born and then needed a tube to secure his airway. He slowly improved over weeks and months and now breaths with just the help of nasal cannulas.

“I really feel like a big part of the reason that he's doing so well is because we're able to be here as much as we are,” Allen said. “She's in a position to where, because of the Fisher House, she's able to go over there every day and spend all day with him.”

Part of that has been thanks to Allen’s supportive military unit which has allowed him to take leave and be with his young son. But part of it is how close the Washington D.C. VA Fisher House is to the children’s hospital, replacing a long drive for the Army NCO with a short walk.

“There are children [at the hospital] worse off than Owen that, you know, for whatever reason, their parents are not able to spend all day, every day at the hospital,” Allen said. “We recognize that if it weren't for the Fisher House, there's no way we would be here nearly as much.”

Since we first spoke to the Childs in October 2022, Owen has gone home, met his maternal grandmother, and enjoyed his first trip to a pumpkin patch. The Army family continues to serve in Maryland and Owen continues to grow, both in size and in the strength of his lungs.

MEET THE MANAGER

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

Richie Sanchez

Miami VA Healthcare System Fisher House

Story by Christy Wilcox

Veteran and Miami Fisher House Manager Richie Sanchez is no stranger to working with other veterans. He comes from a family of veterans. His grandfather served two tours in Korea. His father was in the Navy, and Richie served in the Army.

After he got out of the Army, he started his career at the Department of Veterans Affairs. He has had many jobs in patient advocacy, including prosthetic representative, customer service coordinator, and social worker. It was his background in social work that led to tours of the Fisher House. Richie said when the opportunity became available as Fisher House manager, he knew it was the right step.

“I was amazed by the mission of the Fisher House, and I decided that's what I wanted to do,” Richie Sanchez said.

Richie says Miami Fisher House guests often come from international locations like the Caribbean, South America, and Central America. He also enjoys guests from U.S. territory Puerto Rico because his family is originally from there.

Hispanic families are common in this group and many family members prefer Spanish or are Spanish-speaking only.

He says patients who come from Spanish-language origins often embrace the support of a large family.

FISHER HOUSE MANAGERS

“Veterans don’t go to their appointments by themselves; they go with the whole family.”

Richie speaks fluent Spanish and says it helps guests who speak Spanish navigate the area and the healthcare system.

He helped a family who came to Miami to support their veteran but couldn’t speak English, had never been to the United States, and didn’t know how to do the basics like grocery shop in South Florida.

“Even though they have a language barrier, the commitment of everyone on the team, being able to communicate with them, makes them feel more comfortable,” Richie says.

Outside of work, Richie is drawn to fishing and spending time with his wife and two kids. He says his best days are catching sailfish and grouper in the ocean. His family loves seafood and enjoys having time to reel in a big catch for family dinner.

HOUSE ROUNDUP

ALASKA JBER HOSPITAL

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson

It is always exciting seeing our guests getting festive alongside the AKFH team and enjoying the Cinco de Mayo fun! Woody & Dianna captured this moment and shared it with us. We could not resist sharing their smiles.

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER SAN DIEGO

San Diego

Fisher House San Diego is proud to be the recipient of two prestigious community awards: The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge 2023 National George Washington Honor Medal and The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences 2023 Force for Good Award. It is an honor for Fisher House San Diego to be recognized as an important member of the San Diego region for our support of the military community.

FLORIDA

ORLANDO VA MEDICAL CENTER

Orlando

CALIFORNIA

DAVID GRANT USAF MEDICAL CENTER

Travis Air Force Base

We had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Diane, a loving wife to a 21-years retired AF veteran and a dedicated and proud mother of five. Ms. Diane and her husband stayed with us for a period of time, cooking and baking for all the guests and families in her free time. When she’s not taking care of her husband, she is taking care of the rest of us. If there is a delicious smell in the house, we know we are in for a treat in the next few hours. We want to show our appreciation for such a kind and wonderful soul for being a part of this family. We miss your cooking, especially your banana bread. Everyone is grateful to have met you and wishes your safety and your husband’s swift recovery.

We were proud to host the Eyermann Family after Joseph, the husband, had a medical episode at the Orlando airport while traveling and required emergency medical response. His wife, Diana Kingsley, said that the care he received at the hospital here was beyond anything they had received at home. She said that the house looked like it was designed by Martha Stewart, and the Fisher House made a very stressful situation feel like she was in a “very cozy home away from home.”

GEORGIA EISENHOWER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Eisenhower

Cymone Miller, 9 years old, visited the Fort Eisenhower Army Fisher House with her family for several months while she was receiving medical treatment at the local burn center. Cymone’s family includes Mr. Gregory Miller, who retired from the U.S. Navy; Mrs. Inez Miller, who served in the U.S. Marines; and Inez Nicole Miller, her 15-year-old sister.

HAWAII

TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Honolulu

David Garcia and Joe Adriano taking a break from treatments for some “vitamin sea” nearby…Tripler Army Fisher House

We always love to check in and see what Fisher Houses have been up to. Here, we outline a few highlights from houses around the world, submitted by the Fisher House managers.

guests reel in their catch of amazing memories, a golden suntan, and lots of healing laughter.

ILLINOIS EDWARD HINES, JR. VA HOSPITAL

Hines

Hines Fisher House is excited to be partnering with Silbrico Corporation who has committed to provide “discharge baskets” for our kidney transplant families who are transitioned to the local hotel for post-transplant follow up. Silbrico assembles wonderful “discharge baskets” which include all the necessary start-up items that our Veteran families might need for their transition. These items include laundry soap, dish soap, paper towels, Kleenex, disinfecting wipes and snacks/food all packed in a laundry basket. This has been a huge assistance to those families and is very much appreciated!

Hotels for Heroes program for taking care of our families during that time by lodging them off post but as close to the hospital as possible. The contractor has been working hard to make all the needed repairs. We were excited to work with soldiers from our local BOSS group and the 129th DSSB to get the housein tip-top shape to reopen the house to guests.

NEW YORK

ALBANY STRATTON VA MEDICAL CENTER

Albany

One of our volunteers shared an amazing story with us. A retired general learned that a veteran who saved his life in Vietnam was staying at our Fisher House. He drove cross country to visit his fellow veteran in his hour of need.

TEXAS

BROOKE ARMY

MEDICAL CENTER

Joint Base San Antonio

MASSACHUSETTS VA BOSTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

West Roxbury

Tom and Maureen Evans came to the Fisher House at the recommendation of Tom’s cousin, Jeanine. They got a quilt from a donor of handmade quilts made by former Fisher House guest Chris. As they got to talking to Chris, they learned that she knew Jeanine and was the one who originally told Jeanine about Fisher House! It’s a great reminder of how our guests can support each other and build community.

KENTUCKY

BLANCHFIELD ARMY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Fort Campbell

The Fort Campbell Army Fisher House had the misfortune of suffering frozen, busted pipes over the Christmas holiday, causing extensive damage, which closed the house for several months. We at the Fort Campbell Army Fisher House are thankful for the Fisher House Foundation

MISSOURI

KANSAS CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER

Kansas City

Kansas City Fisher House had a community partner, Valorum Reply, donate tickets to the Royals games for our guests. Several were able to attend, and three guests had never been to a game before! It was so exciting!! Beautiful day in Kansas City for a Royal’s win!

It was a regular day. Jeremy and Jeralyn Ditlevson were enjoying dinner at their home in Oklahoma City. Jeremy began to clean up afterwards when suddenly he was not feeling well. He went down. He was rushed to the hospital to discover that he suffered a stroke, and his brain began to bleed and swell. He was evacuated to Brooke Army Medical Center and went through several surgeries. He is on the road to recovery. Jeralyn said she is so thankful to be able to stay here at the JBSA Army Fisher Houses. If the houses were not here, she would not know what she could have done. The homes eased some of the burdens endured during such a medical crisis and is truly thankful.

HOUSE ROUNDUP

WILLIAM BEAUMONT ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Bliss

One of our guest families shared their story and photos with us. “My son, Austin was involved in a head-on collision out of state on November 21, 2022. The Fisher House has been such a blessing. Being here has allowed me to be with my son throughout his recovery. To be so far away from home and family, the Fisher House of El Paso has been like an adopted family. It gives such peace of mind to still have that comfort of a home during such a difficult time. We are forever grateful for Mrs. Alice Coleman and her staff at the Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher House of El Paso, Texas.”

CARL R. DARNALL ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Cavazos

Mr. Darie and Mr. Danny have been dropping donations off to our house by the truckloads this past year. They are true Fort Cavazos Army Fisher House ambassadors. Both of these gentlemen go into the community and work with various agencies and organizations to collect donations for our families.

Mr. Danny is a coach who shares with his team the importance of giving back to their communities. Together with his BossHoggz soccer team, employees of both DSA Inc. and Central Technical Support Facility on Fort Cavazos, VFW Auxiliary Post 3892, Walmart #407 in Killeen, and the Killeen Evening Lions Club, they managed to replenish our home with snacks, cleaning supplies, toiletries, paper goods, and much more. The love Mr. Darie and Mr. Danny put out into the community comes back tenfold for our families to enjoy.

VIRGINIA

ALEXANDER T. AUGUSTA MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Belvoir

The Brewer family calls Arizona home, but due to an extended deployment where Marcus got hurt, he was sent to the Soldier Recovery Unit here at Fort Belvoir. His wife and kids have come to the Fort Belvoir Army Fisher House on five different occasions. When I walk into the Army Fisher House, Dad is usually finishing up breakfast for the kids, bunny pancakes. After breakfast, the kiddos get to spend time in front of the TV watching an episode of their favorite cartoons. I chose this photo because I found there was something so profound in the children's resilience.

They never cried to go back home or utter how much they missed their friends. They never complained about being in an unfamiliar place or asked why they share a kitchen with "strangers". Although Dad has been through some very challenging times, the kids never lost the ability to simply be children.

WASHINGTON

MADIGAN ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The Joint Base Lewis-McChord Army Fisher House celebrates all of our holidays with a tree! Morgan and Meagan Biles posed with our holiday tree this Easter while staying with their family at the Fisher House.

GERMANY

LANDSTUHL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Landstuhl

Meet the Bolyard family: a remarkable example of love, strength, and a beacon of hope. Archie Bolyard, a Vietnam veteran, and his German spouse, Emmie, have been an inspiring presence at the Landstuhl Army Fisher Houses since 2011. Over the years, they have created a bond with the staff, volunteers, and fellow residents that can only be described as family.

Room 10, affectionately dubbed the “Bolyard Suite” by staff, has become a symbol of their enduring spirit. It has witnessed countless stories of courage and healing, serving as a sanctuary for the Bolyards. The room is a testament to their shared experiences and the love that has carried them through the trials of life. The Bolyards embody the true spirit of resilience, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found.

UNITED KINGDOM

QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham University Hospitals Birmingham Charity is thrilled that Fisher House UK has reached the incredible 10th anniversary milestone on the Queen Elizabeth Hospital site in Birmingham, England.

To mark the occasion, we hosted a celebration to say thank you to all the incredible supporters we've had over the years from those who helped build it in 2013 like Fisher House Foundation, Help for Heroes, and SSAFA the Armed Forces Charity. We are so grateful to the Fisher House Foundation, one of our keystone funders. Without them Fisher House UK wouldn’t be here today. Ten years on, we are as proud as ever of our lasting partnership, and we look forward to many more years together supporting military patients and their families on both sides of the Atlantic.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

OPENINGS, CELEBRATIONS, AND DEDICATIONS

Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital Columbia, Missouri

The Columbia, Missouri Fisher House is the third Fisher House in Missouri, joining St. Louis and Kansas City. This 16-suite Fisher House will support military and veteran families receiving care at the Harry S. Truman Veterans’ Hospital, giving them a safe, comfortable place to stay so they can focus on their care.

Donating from your IRA

More and more, our supporters are making taxsmart gifts to support Fisher House Foundation, including gifts of stocks and securities as well as Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System (second house) Bay Pines, Florida

A second house is under construction in Bay Pines, allowing up to 23 families to stay in a Fisher House each night. More than a million dollars will be saved annually with the addition of this new house, alleviating the burden of expensive lodging costs.

John D. Dingell VA Medical Center Detroit, Michigan

The 16-suite Detroit Fisher House will provide up to 5,840 nights of lodging each year, saving military and veterans up to $776,000 annually.

Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center Memphis, Tennessee

A new Fisher House in Memphis, Tennessee is underway. Construction began this summer on a 16-suite home away from home that will reduce the burden of expensive lodging costs so veterans and their families can focus on receiving the medical care they need.

Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans’ Hospital San Antonio, Texas

Fisher House Foundation began construction on the second house at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. This house will bring capacity at the hospital to 32 suites, giving more than 1,000 families a place to stay while they receive medical treatment each year.

DOWN RANGE CONSTRUCTION

The following projects are currently in design.

• Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System

Little Rock, Arkansas

• Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center

Atlanta, Georgia

• Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center

North Chicago, Illinois

• Hospital de Veteranos (VA Caribbean Healthcare System)

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Starting at age 73, the IRS requires owners to withdraw from their IRA accounts each year. These withdrawals are known as Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). The IRS imposes a fine equivalent to half of the RMD for failing to withdraw minimum distributions. Due to this requirement, giving from an IRA has become one of the most tax-efficient ways for individuals to donate.

The deadline for QCDs is December 31, and your IRA custodian can advise you. Should you initiate a QCD for Fisher House Foundation, please contact us to ensure you receive the proper IRS documentation. Remind your financial institution to include your name and mailing address on the check or in an enclosed letter and clarify that the donation is a QCD.

Ways to Give This Holiday Season

As you begin to think about gifts this holiday season, here are a few ways to support military families:

Fundraisers: Create a fundraiser at fisherhouse.org/fundraise or set up a fundraiser on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitch.

Tribute: Make a donation in honor of a loved one, and Fisher House will send a special message to your honoree.

Join Zach’s Club: Become a monthly donor and honor Zachary Fisher’s legacy at fisherhouse.org/zach Stocks: We gladly accept gifts of stocks and securities. For more information, please visit fisherhouse.org/stocks.

Qualified Charitable Distribution: Speak with your advisor to see if you qualify to donate from your IRA. Gifts may help you meet your required minimum distribution.

Frequent Flyer Miles and Hotel Points: Help wounded, injured, or ill service members with their continued recovery with donated airline miles and hotel reward points, allowing them to travel or stay in hotels when a Fisher House is full.

Leave a Legacy: Remember military families in your estate plans by listing Fisher House Foundation, Inc. as a beneficiary in your retirement assets. Visit fisherhouse.org/legacy.

Donate a Vehicle: Get rid of an unwanted vehicle, boat, or plane — running or not — and help military families. Visit fisherhouse.org/cars for an alternative to selling or trading.

Don’t forget you can make a donation in support of Fisher House Foundation via the Combined Federal Campaign!

CFC code 11453

LOCATION GUIDE

ALASKA

Joint Base

Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital (907) 222-1673

Manager: Theresa Nedrow theresa.nedrow.2@us.af.mil

ARIZONA

Southern Arizona VA Health Care System

Tucson (520) 838-3680

Manager: Kelly Laurich arizona.fisherhouse@va.gov

CALIFORNIA

David Grant USAF Medical Center Travis Air Force Base (707) 423-7550

Manager: Ivana Jordovic ivana.jordovic@us.af.mil

Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton (760) 763-5308

Manager: Vicky Powell-Johnson victoria.powell-john@usmc.mil

Naval Medical Center San Diego (619) 532-9055

Manager: Tiana Babcock tiana.n.babcock.naf@health.mil

VA Long Beach Healthcare System (562) 826-5016

Manager: Yolanda White yolanda.white2@va.gov

VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (310) 268-4457

Manager: Erma Mickens erma.mickens@va.gov

VA Palo Alto Health Care System (650) 493-5000 x60384

Manager: Tracy Marino tracy.marino@va.gov

COLORADO

VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System

Aurora (720) 723-7683

Manager: Khristie Barker VHAECHFisherHouse@va.gov

CONNECTICUT

VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven (203) 937-3438

Manager: Amanda Salthouse amanda.salthouse@va.gov

DELAWARE

Fisher House for Families of the Fallen Dover Air Force Base (302) 922-1900

Manager: MSgt Kayla Hemmesch kayla.hemmesch@us.af.mil

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Washington DC VA Medical Center (202) 745-2482

Acting Manager: Jeffery Bozeman jeffery.bozeman@va.gov

FLORIDA

Please contact the Fisher House manager directly at the desired location by phone or email.

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System (727) 319-1350

Manager: Shentrela Diggins shentrela.diggins@va.gov

Eglin Air Force Base Hospital (850) 883-2865

Manager: Robert Campbell robert.campbell.67@us.af.mil

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Tampa (813) 910-3000

Manager: Sean Kelly sean.kelly2@va.gov

Miami VA Healthcare System (305) 575-7260

Manager: Richie Sanchez lerrichiad.sanchez@va.gov

North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System

Gainesville

(352) 548-6492

Manager: Clay Perdue stephen.perdue@va.gov

Orlando VA Medical Center

(407) 631-9800

Manager: George Denby george.denby@va.gov

West Palm Beach VA Medical Center (561) 422-5554

Manager: Shelley Prickett shelley.prickett2@va.gov

GEORGIA

Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Augusta

(706) 729-5773

Manager: Courtney Deese courtney.deese@va.gov

Eisenhower Army Medical Center Fort Gordon

(706) 787-7100

Manager: Francisco Cruz francisco.cruz10.naf@health.mil

HAWAII

Tripler Army Medical Center

Honolulu

(808) 433-1291 x28

Manager: Misty Hironaka misty.n.hironaka.naf@health.mil

ILLINOIS

Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital

Hines (708) 202-7154

Manager: Holly Wright holly.wright@va.gov

KENTUCKY

Blanchfield Army Community Hospital Fort Campbell (270) 798-8330

Manager: Wendy Carlston wendy.j.carlston.naf@health.mil

Franklin R. Sousley VAHCS Lexington (859) 281-3825

Manager: Michael Neville michael.neville@va.gov

LOUISIANA

Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System

New Orleans (504) 507-6020

Manager: Debra Ceaser-Winbush debra.ceaser-winbush@va.gov

MAINE

VA Maine Healthcare System

Augusta (207) 623-8411 x7052

Manager: Patrick Crowley patrick.crowley@va.gov

MARYLAND

Malcolm Grow Clinics & Surgery Center Joint Base Andrews (301) 981-1243

Manager: Abe Gutierrez jbandrewsfisherhouse@gmail.com

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Bethesda

(301) 857-9494

Manager: Michael Ybarra mybarra@fisherhousebethesda.org

Walter Reed Army Fisher House at Forest Glen Annex Silver Spring (301) 319-5442

Manager: Maurice Borde maurice.borde.naf@army.mil

MASSACHUSETTS

VA Boston Healthcare System

(857) 203-4000

Manager: Elizabeth St. Pierre elizabeth.stpierre@va.gov

MICHIGAN

VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System

(734) 845-3055

Manager: April LaRock april.larock@va.gov

MINNESOTA

Minneapolis VA Health Care System

(612) 467-5602

Manager: Kimberly Bihm kimberly.bihm@va.gov

MISSISSIPPI

Keesler Medical Center

(228) 377-8264

Manager: Marc Ambrose marc.ambrose@us.af.mil

MISSOURI

Harry S. Truman VA Hospital Fisher House (573) 814-6000 x55460

Manager: Terry Woodcock terry.woodcock@va.gov

Kansas City VA Medical Center

(816) 714-8697

Manager: Michael Peters micheal.peters@va.gov

VA St. Louis Health Care System (314) 894-6145

Manager: Vanniecia Brown vanniecia.brown@va.gov

NEBRASKA

VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System

Omaha (402) 930-7116

Manager: Miles Brown miles.brown1@va.gov

NEVADA

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System North Las Vegas (702) 224-6789

Manager: Stephanie Jo Wheeler stephanie.wheeler4@va.gov

NEW MEXICO

Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center

Albuquerque (505) 265-1711 x3180

Acting Manager: Christopher Kent abqfisherhouse@va.gov

NEW YORK

Albany Stratton VA Medical Center (518) 626-6919

Manager: Michael Horning michael.horning@va.gov

James J. Peters VA Medical Center

Bronx (718) 584-9000 x2037 or x2039

Manager: Ellen Trbovich ellen.trbovich@va.gov

NORTH CAROLINA

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (910) 450-3885

Manager: Josie Cotton josephine.cotton@usmc.mil

Womack Army Medical Center Fort Bragg (910) 849-3466

Manager: John Miller john.e.miller306.naf@health.mil

OHIO

Cincinnati VA Medical Center (513) 475-6571

Manager: Karrie Hagan karrie.hagan@va.gov

Dayton VA Medical Center

(937) 268-6511 x2887

Manager: Betsey Striebel betsey.striebel@va.gov

Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center 216-707-4807 x 24805

Manager: Wesley Freeman wesley.freeman@va.gov

Wright-Patterson Medical Center (937) 257-0855

(Assistant) Manager: Diyor Nishanov Isfandiyor.nishanov@us.af.mil

OREGON

VA Portland Health Care System

(360) 567-4647

Acting Manager: Dawn Schultz dawn.schultz2@va.gov

PENNSYLVANIA

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (412) 360-2030

Manager: Heather Frantz heather.frantz@va.gov

SOUTH CAROLINA

Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Charleston (843) 805-8200

Manager: Erik Zielinski erik.zielinski@va.gov

Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center Columbia (803) 776-4000 ext.57260

Manager: Candler Rhodes candler.rhodes@va.gov

TENNESSEE

Tennessee Valley Healthcare System

Murfreesboro (615) 225-5758

Manager: Becky Wood rebecca.wood4@va.gov

TEXAS

Brooke Army Medical Center Joint Base San Antonio (210) 916-6000

Manager: Robyn Stewart rrobyn.m.stewart.naf@health.mil

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Fort Hood (254) 286-7927

Manager: Candice Ualesi candice.t.ualesi.naf@health.mil

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Houston (713) 794-7766

Manager: Tamara Brunjes tamara.Brunjes1@va.gov

South Texas Veterans Health Care System San Antonio (210) 617-5542

Acting Manager: Douglas Dickson douglas.dickson@va.gov

VA North Texas Health Care System

Dallas (214) 857-4400

Manager: Lydia Henderson lydia.henderson1@va.gov

Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical CenterSan Antonio Military Medical Center

Lackland Air Force Base (210) 671-6037

Manager: Philip Harralson philip.harralson@us.af.mil

William Beaumont Army Medical Center

Fort Bliss (915) 742-1860

Manager: Alice Coleman alice.m.coleman2.naf@health.mil

UTAH

VA Salt Lake City

Health Care System (801) 588-5900

Acting Manager: Heather Dunnigan qheather.dunnigan@va.gov

VIRGINIA

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital

(703) 805-5203

Manager: Tyana Monette tyana.m.monette2.naf@health.mil

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (757) 953-6889

Manager: Jill Thompson jill.thompson@portsmouthfisherhouse.org

Richmond VA Medical Center

Richmond

(804) 675-6639

Manager: Wayne Walker wayne.walker@va.gov

WASHINGTON

Madigan Army Medical Center

Joint Base Lewis-McChord (253) 967-5198

Manager: Vattana Garcia vattana.garcia.naf@health.mil

VA Puget Sound Health Care System

Seattle (206) 768-5353

Manager: Mark Debenport mark.debenport@va.gov

WEST VIRGINIA

Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center

Huntington (304) 429-8700

Manager: Jason Wyant jason.wyant@va.gov

WISCONSIN

Zablocki VA Medical Center

Milwaukee

(414) 384-2000 x44570

Manager: Jennifer Kiefer jennifer.kiefer@va.gov

GERMANY

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

011-49-6371-9464-7430

fax: 011-49-6371-866679

Manager: Sarafina Buchanan sarafina.n.buchanan.naf@health.mil

UNITED KINGDOM

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham 0121-472-6217

fax: 0121-41306897

Manager: Patrick Hogan vs.fisherhouseuk@ssafa.org.uk

home

For more than 30 years, the Fisher House program has helped families stay with loved ones receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers, because we believe “A family’s love is good medicine.” These homes provide free, temporary lodging to military and veteran families so they can be close to their loved ones during medical crises.

Since 1990: 455,000 families served | $575 million in savings | 12 million+ nights of lodging