The Patriot Magazine Fall 2014

www.fisherhouse.orgTHE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FISHER HOUSETM FOUNDATION, INC.

2014 VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2

The Scott FamilyA Look Back—Then Forward:

INVICTUS GAMES

For Our Wounded Warriors

DAY IN THE LIFE

Contest Photo Winners

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Through Fisher House

FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION

CHAIRMAN AND CEO Kenneth Fisher

PRESIDENT David A. Coker

CHIEF OF STAFFMary Considine

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kerri Childress

MANAGING EDITOR Ashley Estill

LAYOUT AND ART DIRECTIONds+fwww.dsfriends.com

Address all correspondence to:

The PatriotFisher House Foundation111 Rockville PikeSuite 420Rockville, Maryland 20850

Phone: (301) 294-8560Fax: (301) 294-8562Email: [email protected]

www.fisherhouse.org

Thank you so much to Don Schaaf & Friends, Inc. in Washington, DC

for your donated services in designing The Patriot.

Cover photo courtesy of Craig Orsini I www.orsinistudio.com

Social Media Support 2

Fisher House Design Contest 3

Guest Family Profile: Cooper Family 4

Fisher House Volunteer of the Year 6

Marathon Jams 7

Radio Report 8

Fisher House Scholarship Opportunities 9

First Lady's Easter Visit 10

Fisher House Golf Classic 11

Fisher House Salutes 12

Kardashians Visit LA Fisher House 13

Cover Story: The Scott Family 14

Serve Those Who Served 16

Invictus Games 17

Journal Entries 21

Brewers Make Good Neighbors 22

2014 Day In the Life Photo Contest 23

Meet the Manager 24

Play Ball 25

Hero Miles 26

Why I Run for Team Fisher House 27

House Round-Up 28

Dedications 34

Future Fisher Houses in Action 35

Down Range 36

Fisher House Directory 36

The Fisher House program provides a

"home away from home" for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes provide free temporary lodging so military and veterans’ families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis.

Recognizing the special sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform, and their families, Fisher House Foundation helps by meeting a humanitarian need outside the scope offered by the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. This is a unique program, a private-public partnership to support America’s military heroes, both veterans and active duty service members, in their time of need.

Each Fisher House is located on the grounds of major military and VA Medical Centers in the United States, as well as locations in Europe. Our houses provide a comforting, first-class “home away from home” while loved ones receive care in an unfamiliar environment — all at NO COST to the service member or their families. This special support is very important during the most stressful time — the hospitalization of a loved one. Each Fisher House provides all the comforts of home — a spacious dining, living, laundry and family room, kitchen, and private bedrooms for families to retreat and rejuvenate after a stressful day at the hospital. While the road to recovery is different for every family, one thing remains the same — Fisher House is there to provide comfort and compassion.

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

Scholarships for Military Children, Heroes’ Legacy Scholarship, the Hero Miles program, the Hotels for Heroes program, Team Fisher House, and co-sponsor the Newman’s Own Awards program and the Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program.

By contributing to Fisher House Foundation or any individual Fisher House facility, you can make a difference in the lives of America’s service members, retirees, veterans and their families when they need help the most. Fisher House Foundation and individual Fisher Houses depend on public donations to continue our important work. If you designate your contribution for a specific purpose or Fisher House, 100 percent of your donation will be allocated for that purpose.

Furthermore, Fisher House Foundation never discloses the names of its donors to any other individuals or organizations, and does not solicit contributions by direct mail or telephone.

Once constructed, each Fisher House is given to the US government as a gift. Military service secretaries and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the homes. Fisher House Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, builds new houses, assists in coordinating private support and encourages public support for the homes.

Fisher House Foundation has earned the highest rating (four stars) from Charity Navigator, an independent nonprofit evaluator. Fisher House Foundation has also received an A+ rating from the American Institute of Philanthropy. Donations to Fisher House Foundation and/or individual Fisher House facilities are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law.

About Fisher House Foundation, Inc.Contents

1THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 2014

LETTER FROM KEN FISHERDear Friends,

When the doors to the first Fisher House opened welcoming military families nearly 25 years ago, my Uncle Zachary never dreamed that the Fisher House program would one day stretch across the country and overseas. The simple undertaking of providing free temporary lodging for the families of service men and women during a medical crisis has grown to include scholarships, emergency transportation, and many other ways where Fisher House fills the gap when a family needs help.

With new houses opening this year in Gainesville, FL and at Travis Air Force Base, CA, we continue to expand our assistance further into the veterans’ community. Service members have sacrificed so much in the last 13 years this nation has been at war. As they enroll to receive lifelong treatment for wounds and injuries in the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system, we continue to construct Fisher Houses in new communities across the country to meet this ever expanding need. More than ever, it is important to show our support for our nation’s veterans.

This year, we also reached a staggering milestone: the Hero Miles program booked its 50,000th ticket. Providing airline tickets for family members — at no cost to them — means they will be by their loved ones side to support their continued recovery. This program has made an incalculable difference in the healing process for thousands of military and veterans’ families since it began in 2004. This fall, Fisher House Foundation supported the US team of athletes, all wounded and injured service members, who traveled to the United Kingdom for the Invictus Games. Inspired by the Warrior Games, Prince Harry also invited family and friends of US athletes to London. Thanks to Hero Miles, they were able to support their loved ones and the entire team at the games.

In each issue of The Patriot when I share the accomplishments of the Fisher House program with our readers, I share the pride in what we have done together towards bridging unmet needs. Commitment to honoring and serving our military and veterans’ families in their time of need is a pledge we all share. Thank you for being part of the solution.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Kenneth Fisher Chairman and CEO, Fisher House Foundation

Charity Ratings: A+

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

Fisher House Foundation has received an A+ from the American Institute of Philanthropy in their “Veterans and Military” category. Out of 49 charities rated, Fisher House Foundation is one of only three charities to receive their distinctive A+ rating.

Charity Navigator awarded the Foundation their coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management for the tenth consecutive year, a rating achieved by only one percent of all the charities in the country that they monitor.

Ken and Tammy Fisher meeting with the Quogue Fire Department and thanking them for their service and donation.

by the Numbers

200 Thousand Families Served

5.2 Million Days of Lodging Offered

$235 Million Savings for Families in Lodging and Transportation Cost

Fisher House Program

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

64 Fisher Houses in Operation

Over

2 THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 20142 THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 2014

TWITTER LOVEwww.twitter.com/FisherHouseFdtn For Our Country @forourcountry

@FisherHouseFdtn Our founder stayed at the Fisher House on Ft. Sam Houston while his brother was recovering. Amazing organization! #thankyou Heroic Tymes @HeroicTymes

@FisherHouseFdtn Everyday I look out my office window and see a roof protecting the heads of our American Heroes. Thank You Fisher Family!!!

SOCIAL MEDIA SUPPORT

“I loved the Fisher House in Landstuhl. I stayed there for about 10 days while my daughter was in the NICU, so I didn't have to leave her. I was only 2 minutes away which eased my mind so so much. They cooked meals and were just incredibly nice people. I'm forever thankful for this organization.”

— Corinna E.

“Thank you for doing a wonderful thing for the families of those who have suffered so much. We thank them for their service.”

— Genece W.

“My family and I have been the recipients of the generosity of the Fisher House Foundation many times. My husband has been fighting illnesses too often. About 100 miles from our home the Seattle House has taken care of us while the Seattle VA Hospital staff works hard to keep him in our lives. Thank you to Cecile, Loraine, Michelle, Carrie, Steve & Brad. You have made us part of your family.”

— Phyllis S.

FACEBOOK FEEDBACKwww.facebook.com/FisherHouse

2 THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 2014

JOIN THE CONVERSATION! Don’t forget to connect with us on Instagram too!

Instagram.com/FisherHouseFdtn and share your story with us using the hashtag #FisherHouse!


FISHER HOUSE DESIGN CONTESTThe Foundation is excited to announce our t-shirt contest results. The idea was to share a nice gift that would also build awareness of our mission in a fun and inspiring way. This past spring we took that concept from idea to reality.

We used a web based design contest site that allowed people from all around the world to submit designs for shirts. Many of the designers had military backgrounds or family in the military. The result was over 550 designs from 165 designers. We had a lot of fun judging the entries and working with the designers. From all those entries we selected three winning designs.

The winning designs were produced by a veteran owned shirt company, Tees4Vets, www.tees4vets.com. They will be provided to families staying at selected Fisher Houses, with more houses added on after that.

"This has been a real life saver for us. The

Fisher House is a wonderful place.”

Thomas Cooper sat with his wife Viola in the Fisher House living room as he started our conversation with those words.

Tom has cancer and normally would have had to drive from his home in Alabama to Keesler Air Force Base for treatment every day. The Fisher House alleviated that burden so Tom and Viola could focus on his recovery.

“We would have trouble getting here on time every day with traffic and weather,” Viola started. “It was helpful to just be here and go right over to the hospital.”

Tom and Viola called Fisher House their home for the duration of Tom’s treatment, spending 42 days at the house. They hadn’t heard of the Fisher House until the receptionist at the hospital suggested they stay there instead of driving each day.

Fisher House manager Larry Vetter spoke with the couple and told them they were more than welcome to call Fisher House their home.

Tom’s service to this nation was during the Cold War — he was in Germany when the Berlin Wall was built. He remained in Germany from 1960-1962 and then was in

NAME: THOMAS AND VIOLA COOPER

HOUSE: KEESLER MEDICAL CENTER –

KEESLER AFB, MS

HOME STATE: ALABAMA

MILITARY BRANCH: ARMY

PROFILEGUEST FAMILY

The Cooper Family

Story and Photos by Ashley Estill


Tom and Viola in the Living Room of the Keesler Fisher House.


“ It was helpful to just be here and go right over to the hospital.”

the reserves until 1966, being discharged from the Army just before the Vietnam War.

Their favorite part of the Fisher House is the kitchen — Tom and Viola spent many moments getting together with other families and talking.

“You don’t realize how many people are going through the things they have to go through,” Viola said. “Just yesterday we went to a movie and ate with another couple. We’re going to stay in touch with them.”

The couple agreed the dining room wasn’t a bad place to be either — especially if Larry was cooking.

“I tell you, Larry is a good cook,” Viola said. “He just jumps right in there — he’s the best man for this job.”

The Fisher House provided a safe haven, food and even better company to Tom and Viola during their stay — which ended with Tom’s last cancer treatment post interview.

Tom was leaving the Fisher House for his last treatment and rang the infamous bell that all cancer patients do on their last day. A patient who had received cancer treatment at the hospital donated the bell for future patients to on their last day. As the interview concluded, Tom and Viola set out for his turn to ring the bell.

FISHER HOUSE VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

PICTURED AT THE RIGHT WITH

FOUNDATION PRESIDENT DAVID COKER.

FISHER HOUSE: TRAVIS AFB, CA

Anita Olds was first introduced to the Travis Fisher House when she became a guest after many months of driving her husband, Greg, back and forth for treatment after his diagnosis with leukemia. While a guest, Anita began helping in any way she could. After her husband passed, Anita remained a Fisher House volunteer, making the long drive to volunteer nearly eight hours on average of two or three days per week. Her positive attitude, leadership skills and organizational skills have made her an invaluable part of the Travis Fisher House team.

Above and beyond: Anita met another guest staying at the Travis Fisher House with her significant other. The couple had never married and the patient was desperate to marry his love. Anita planned a wedding and reception at the Fisher House, decorated the home and made sure the couple had a beautiful day.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR WINNER ANITA OLDS

VALERIE DEMESA-BRUEMMER

FISHER HOUSE: ST. LOUIS, MO

After retiring in 2012, Mrs. Val, as she is known, wanted to serve her community. As the wife of an Army retiree, Val was looking for a way to serve veterans and their families. She read an article about Fisher House and realized how meaningful it would be for families to have a home cooked meal so far from home. Every Friday she prepares a feast for the St. Louis Fisher House guests.

Above and beyond: In addition to cooking, Mrs. Val offers administrative support whenever she is needed, lending her dedicated and committed attitude to another area of the Fisher House.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR WINNER

With 64 Fisher Houses worldwide serving 22,000 families per year, it seems only logical that our homes need a little help taking care of our special guests. Fisher House volunteers provide invaluable services to the military families they support, in addition to offering a kind ear to listen or a shoulder to lean on. Volunteers help make a Fisher House a home for so many, and to honor their service, Fisher House Foundation has conducted our annual Volunteer of the Year award to pay tribute to a few of our amazing volunteers. Here are the winners.


arathon Jams have been held all over the world for several years, raising funds and

awareness for the Fisher House program. The multi-hour, all-acoustic, bluegrass sessions are held at various locations, including combat zones, where folks get together to listen to music while supporting military

families. Over the past five years, the jams have raised over $300,000. Thanks to all of the locations who put so much effort into these fun events!

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This year, Fisher House Foundation was presented with three Hermes Creative Awards, an international competition for creative professionals. Awards were given for The Patriot magazine and for the PSA titled, “A Hero’s Story.” We could not win these awards without gracious support from Don Schaaf and Friends Inc./ds+f who help design the magazine, which received two of the three awards, and from David Freed, a Hollywood producer and his team for creating a captivating Public Service Announcement.

To view these winning magazine issues or video, visit www.fisherhouse.org.


PALO ALTO, Calif. For a fourth year, San Francisco's KSFO-AM ("Hot Talk 560") and morning host Brian Sussman raised more than $100,000 for Fisher House Foundation during a live broadcast from the 21-room Fisher House at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System.

At last count, KSFO listeners donated $111,000 over the Memorial Day weekend.

Sussman talked live with Fisher House guests including Tammi Adams of Colton, Oregon. Her son, Army Sgt. Jordan Adams, 26, sustained traumatic brain injuries in an auto wreck near his home four days before Christmas 2013. Mrs. Adams has been staying at the Fisher House since March, allowing

her to be within a short walk of her son's hospital bed.

"The need for this is great," she said. "It helps the soldiers and the patients to recuperate better, because they have their loved ones around and they have that support."

Before a VA social worker told Mrs. Adams and her husband of Fisher House, the family had planned on staying in a travel trailer parked in the VA hospital lot.

"I can see his room, right there," said Mrs. Adams, pointing to windows at the VA hospital across the parking lot from the Fisher House. "It just gives me a peace inside. It's the closest thing to sleeping in his room."

Since 2011, KSFO has raised more than $480,000 for Fisher House Foundation.

During the broadcast, Fisher House Foundation Chairman and CEO Ken Fisher mentioned Fisher House Foundation has earned a coveted "four-star" rating from watchdog CharityNavigator for 10

RADIO REPORTStory by Marshall Adams

Photo by Marshall Adams

consecutive years, and that Fisher House uses 96 cents of every donated dollar for program service initiatives.

"Fisher House Foundation is thankful for the support of KSFO and its listeners," Fisher said. "Yet again, Brian Sussman has brought to life the needs of our veterans, military and their families. We greatly appreciate his voice."

"Once again, the San Francisco Bay Area's patriotism was on display as the faithful listeners of KSFO rallied to help the families of our wounded warriors," Sussman said.

"It's an honor and privilege to host this exciting radio event."

The broadcast coincided with the airing of Fisher House's two Memorial Day-themed radio shows, "Our Greatest National Treasure" and "The Gift," on more than 200 news/talk and country stations respectively. The shows are podcast at fisherhouse.org. Fisher House will return to the radio with special programming over Thanksgiving and Christmas.

KSFO Host Brian Sussman and Tammi Adams at the Palo Alto Fisher House.

Fisher House Foundation’s Scholarship Opportunities

RADIO REPORT Fisher House Foundation’s Scholarship Opportunities

Although the main mission of Fisher House Foundation is to build and support a network of comfort homes across the nation, the Foundation is also proud to help administer three scholarship programs in support of families as well.

Heroes’ Legacy ScholarshipThe Heroes’ Legacy Scholarship program was founded in 2011 to assist with college tuition for children of service members who died or were severely disabled while serving our country after September 11, 2001.

Applications for the 2015-2016 academic year will be available by visiting fisherhouse.org in December 2014. Deadline for submission will be March 2015.

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 2014 9

Scholarships for Military ChildrenChildren of active duty personnel, reserve/guard and retired military members, survivors of service members who died while on active duty, or survivors of individuals who died while receiving retired pay from the military are eligible to apply to the Scholarship for Military Children Program for assistance with college tuition.

Applications may be downloaded from fisherhouse.org in December 2014 and must be submitted at your local commissary in February 2015.

Military Spouse ScholarshipsFisher House Foundation is a proud sponsor of the National Military Family Association’s (NMFA) Joanne Holbrook Patton Scholarship for military spouses. This program helps prepare military spouses for meaningful employment and to better contribute to their family’s financial security. This program is available to spouses and surviving spouses of active duty, National Guard, reserve and retired service members.

Applications are available via the NMFA website at www.militaryfamily.org.

For more information on Fisher House Foundation's scholarship programs, please visit www.fisherhouse.org or www.militaryscholar.org.


For the third year in a row, First Lady Mrs. Michelle Obama and her dogs held an early Easter celebration for military families at the Fisher House at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Mrs. Obama visited Fisher House families at the Bethesda, MD medical center where she handed out cookies made by the White House pastry chefs and greeted families in the dining room of the comfort home. While young children decorated Easter cards, Mrs. Obama visited each table and before she left, presented everyone with tickets to the annual White House Egg Roll. Thank you to the First Lady for the wonderful visit!

PHOTOS BY MC3 BRANDON WILLIAMS-CHURCH

Visit Fisher House Families

First Lady and"First Dogs" y


The 11th Annual Fisher House Golf Classic was held in Leesburg, VA, with proceeds going to the Foundation’s Heroes' Legacy program, which provides scholarships to the children of the fallen and seriously disabled. Led by sponsors DHL, SAP, and United Technology Corporation, Fisher House Foundation supporters were joined by five Medal of Honor recipients, and 18 wounded warriors for a spectacular day on the links. At the closing ceremony, CNN’s Kyra Phillips and Brianna Keilar, the co-Masters of Ceremony, announced the day’s proceeds exceeded an astounding $1 million. Thanks to our heroes, sponsors, volunteers and everyone that made this day a success.

David Coker, President

Dave was Fisher House Foundation’s very first employee — hired by Zachary Fisher after Dave retired from the Army in 1994. When Dave began, there were 14 Fisher Houses in existence. Twenty years later, the program now has 64 homes across the nation and in Europe.

“Having had the opportunity to work for Zachary Fisher and now for Ken Fisher is a dream come true. What people need to know is that the highlight of any day is meeting the families we are privileged to serve, and my greatest skill is recognizing talent — we are blessed to have a staff that is not only skilled, but passionate about what we do.”

Just recently we helped Dave celebrate his 20th anniversary with Fisher House — here’s to 20 more years Dave!

Meet the Staff

The Patriot introduces a new feature to our magazine — Meet the Staff! Fisher House Foundation is comprised of many passionate and talented people. Each issue you’ll meet someone new who helps contribute to our mission of supporting our military and their families.

Visit Fisher House Families

FISHER HOUSESALUTES

THE PATRIOT • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • 201412

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

WE SALUTE: TAPS

TAPS is the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors. This non-profit organization provides care and support to anyone who has suffered the loss of a member of the armed forces. They provide 24/7 tragedy resources and provide comfort and care through their services and programs. These include peer-based emotional support, case work assistance, connections to community-based care, and grief and trauma resources. TAPS has assisted over 50,000 surviving family members, casualty officers and caregivers since inception in 1994. Each year Fisher House Foundation helps support their National Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp for Young Survivors through our Hero Miles program, flying in those attending their events. To find out about these events and more; if you are suffering or know someone who is suffering, visit www.taps.org or call 1-800-959-8277.

Photos by Ashley Estill


FISHER HOUSE

Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian were joined by their step father Bruce Jenner at the LA Fisher House for a visit with military families. Kourtney, Khloe and Bruce arrived and were greeted by Fisher House trustee Tammy Fisher, Foundation president, David Coker and the LA Fisher House manager Sharon Hudson. After a tour of the house, Khloe, Kourtney and Bruce served dinner for guests before joining them in the home’s dining room. The trio spent quality time engaging with all of the home’s guests. During their visit, Fisher House residents learned that Bruce’s father was a D-Day veteran, storming the beaches of Normandy. Thank you for visiting the Fisher House!

KARDASHIANS

Visit LA Fisher House

COVER STORY


"Come on in,” said Master Sergeant Blaine Scott, USMC, as he greeted myself and two photographers at his home in New Braunfels, a short drive from San Antonio Military Medical Center in Texas.

Blaine emerged from his garage, followed by his 7-year-old son, “Little Blainey,” who was eager to start the day. Inside the Scott family home were Blaine’s wife, Lilly, and 10-year-old daughter Isabella. Covering the outside of their manicured lawn, were several United States Marine Corps signs. In case you didn’t know a Marine lived there — you did once you pulled up.

Blaine was getting ready to leave for work — the active duty Marine is the Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge at the San Antonio Military Medical Center Marine Corps Detachment, assisting wounded Marines and their families during their stay at SAMMC.

Lilly was chasing Little Blainey around to get his shoes tied, as Blaine began to serve coffee at the early hour.

Inside their home were photos spanning the last decade, from Lilly and Blaine dating, to their early years of marriage, followed by photos of the family of four. Shortly after we arrived, Blaine emerged from his office with a photo of himself with Little Blainey at the dedication of the Los Angeles Fisher House in 2008. Blaine and Lilly were all too familiar with the Fisher House after Lilly’s stay at the Fisher House at SAMMC in 2006. On August 20,

Then and Now: The Scott Family How Master Sergeant Blaine Scott, USMC went from being a patient to advocate for other

Marine families at San Antonio Military Medical CenterSTORY BY ASHLEY ESTILL

PHOTOS BY CRAIG ORSINI

"Little Blainey" and Master Sergeant Scott were on the cover of The Patriot in 2009.


2006, Blaine’s vehicle was struck by an IED in Iraq, burning nearly half of his body. This is where their Fisher House story began…

“I received a phone call at 8:33 in the morning, that Blaine had suffered a severe injury,” Lilly recalled. “I didn’t know how bad it was. All I knew was he was being evacuated from Iraq, stabilized in Germany, and then sent to San Antonio.”

“I was still in California with our three-year-old daughter, and I left once Blaine was stable enough to arrive in San Antonio. Then I was on a plane, six months pregnant with our second child,” she continued.

Isabella stayed with Lilly’s parents while Lilly rushed to be by her husband’s side. Her first stop was to the Fisher House, even before she went to the hospital. Blaine was undergoing wound care that didn’t allow visitors at the time.

Marines helped Lilly check into the Fisher House.

“Immediately I felt the warmth,” she said. “Even though I was crying, I felt comfortable and safe.”

She saw Blaine a few hours later in the ICU burn ward — a sight she doesn’t wish upon anyone — but she was happy her husband was alive.

For nearly 18 months, Blaine concentrated on his recovery, taking comfort that his wife was safe and a short walk away.

“Knowing that my wife was at the Fisher House and having what she had there, and people to talk to, made me not worry about her when she left for the day,” Blaine recalled.

“I could concentrate on my recovery and getting back to where I am today.”

Once Blaine recovered enough to return to the fleet, he was deployed to Afghanistan. Once he returned, he needed a new home. Blaine chose to return to San Antonio where he learned he would be taking care of wounded service members.

In his current position, one he’s held for three years, Blaine looks after all the non-medical needs of his Marines. Having been a patient, Blaine is ideal for ensuring that his Marines transition smoothly and their families are well taken care of. Blaine’s job still takes him to the Fisher House, where several of his Marines families are staying.

“These families couldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the Fisher House — financially and emotionally,” he continued. “They have a home to come back to; somewhere to settle down, relax and get back to some normalcy for themselves. I thank the Fisher House for doing that not only for my family, but for the Marines I care for deeply as well.”

Blaine’s got about one more year left, and he will retire from the Marine Corps with 23 years of service to this nation. His plans include staying in Texas, where he and his

wife have built their home and a good life for themselves.

When asked if Blaine would make a clean break after he retired or keep military connections, his answer was swift and simple.

“When I retire, I’ll always be here for my Marine brothers no matter what.”

Blaine considers San Antonio the most rewarding place to be. He’s seen Marines arrive to the medical center in terrible condition, and then leave with a future.

Blaine received tremendous support from his Marines and his family. The relationship Blaine has with his family is stronger than ever. Sometimes tragedies don’t always have a happy ending. Sometimes they pull a family apart versus bringing them together. Blaine attributes their family’s success to a strong marriage before the bomb.

“We were strong before we came into this,” Blaine said. “We had a strong relationship before I was injured. My wife told me ‘We’re going to get through this.’ Whenever I didn’t feel like doing something, she’d kick me in the butt and tell me I needed to do this. Having that support, I wouldn’t be where we are today. I did the same for my wife. Our kids depended on us. I was fortunate that I have a strong wife and we are strong together.”


Fisher House CEO calls his foundation’s mission

‘beautiful in its simplicity.’ As chairman and CEO of Fisher House, Ken Fisher has heard from thousands of military and veteran families, all grateful for a free place to stay while loved ones receive medical care.

There’s one note, though, he cherishes most.

“It says, ‘Dear Ken’ — not Mr. Fisher, I don’t like that — ‘thank you for allowing me to spend Christmas with my son.’ That’s it.

“Can you imagine?” he says. “What would have happened if this program wasn’t there and these parents couldn’t afford a hotel? What if they couldn’t fly there because their government travel orders had already been used? They might have had to drive for a week and pay for gas, too.”

Fisher believes such families have sacrificed enough, especially since 9/11. Since taking over the foundation, he’s worked with DoD and VA to learn where needs are greatest, doubling the number of Fisher Houses to 64.

Zachary Fisher, a real estate developer and one of only two Americans to be named an honorary veteran, built the first two Fisher Houses in 1990. He died in 1999, but his family — chiefly Ken, his grandnephew — has expanded the Fisher legacy.

A senior partner at Fisher Brothers, Ken oversees the leasing, management and marketing of 5 million square feet of Class A commercial space in midtown Manhattan. He is co-chairman of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and in 2007 he served on the President’s Commission on Care for America’s Returning Wounded Warriors.

In August he spoke at The American Legion’s national convention in Charlotte, NC The American Legion Magazine spoke

STORY BY MATT GRILLS

PHOTO BY DAVID HANDSCHUH

REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE AUGUST 2014 ISSUE

with Fisher about the charity’s growth at home and abroad, why the Fisher House program works, and its effort to cover military death benefits during last year’s partial government shutdown.

The Fisher House concept is 25 years old. How did its network of comfort homes begin? The Fisher family’s involvement with the military and the philanthropy that we do started with USS Intrepid. It was brought to my uncle’s attention that after so many years of service the ship was essentially going to be sold as scrap metal. Zach found out and said it was a piece of history and should be preserved. So he worked with the Navy and a few well-connected people and was able to save it from the scrapheap. It was brought to New York around 1981 and became not only a centerpiece honoring the military but the catalyst behind the West Side revival.

A lot of big names were helping him, but Zach was the one who provided the seed money. It was his determination and drive that really made it possible. He wanted to do more for the military. So he made a phone call to Pauline Trost, who was married to Admiral Carlisle Trost, then the chief of naval operations. She would go to Bethesda from time to time to see troops in that hospital and noticed that families would come into the lobby with tons of luggage, no place to put it, no place to go. She told Zach that he should consider something along the lines of building housing for families to stay in if their loved ones are hospitalized. He thought that was an incredible idea and, in typical Zach Fisher form, reached into his pocket and built the first four Fisher Houses — first at Bethesda, shortly after that Walter Reed, the one at Brooke Army Medical Center and then one at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Now, Zach had to work with the government in terms of how this was going

to be done. But his only condition was that there had to be no charge. Then the need started to grow. Everybody wanted a Fisher House. It became like a badge of honor. So they formed the foundation, and it became the seed of the big tree that Fisher House is today.

With 64 houses now in operation, what goes into the decision to build a new one? We don’t just build a house in a place just because we have the money. We work with the surgeons general, we work with VA. They tell us where they think the needs are going to be the greatest, and that’s where we go.

This was probably one of the first working partnerships between the government and the private sector. The government gives the land to us and we build the house using our skill set, which is construction and development. Zach built them, then donated them to whichever branch of the military they served. They in turn would agree to operate, staff and maintain the houses in perpetuity. Once the houses were done we were able to move on to the next project, the next community, the next need, and not have to worry about fundraising for the maintenance. It would have been a constant effort, and we wouldn’t have nearly the impact we have today.

We picked our lane using our skill set, took an unmet need and were able to engineer this partnership. In 21 years, our mission has not changed. One, we do what we do and we do it well. Two, we don’t waste money. We are not a foundation that tries to be all things to all people. There will be a few stray missions, but essentially that is it. Fisher House is beautiful in its simplicity.

To read the rest of The American Legion’s interview with Ken Fisher, visit http://www.legion.org/magazine/223486/serve-those-who-served.


Last year when Prince Harry attended the Warrior Games, he saw the amazing impact adaptive sports had on the recovery for not only wounded warriors, but for their families as well. As a result of his experience, he started the inaugural Invictus Games in London, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and ill service men and women.

Thirteen countries participated in the games, which were held from September 10-14 in London. Fisher House Foundation was the only American sponsor and the only charity sponsor for the games. The Foundation also provided the uniforms to the US athletes, and support gear to their families in attendance.

Our Hero Miles program sent 160 family members to London to support their loved ones who were competing in the Games. During the opening ceremony, the US team proudly marched on the field carrying the American flag.

“Military service members prove every day how resilient they are," said Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation. "The Invictus Games served as an incredible opportunity for these wounded, injured and ill men and women to show their families just how far they have come in the recovery process. Not only was it great for the athletes, but it was equally important for the families to share in the fun and excitement.”

A special video message from First Lady Michelle Obama was played to the audience. She said: "Some of the most inspiring moments I have had as First Lady are when I've met wounded warriors like so many of you."

THE WORLD'S FIRST

All Photos by Jim Moore, Kerri Childress and Lisa DiGangi

INVICTUS

Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the Pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll.

I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.

William Ernest Henley



INVICTUS GAMES CLOSING CEREMONYOn Sunday, September 14, the Invictus Games Closing Concert drew a crowd of 26,000 as they celebrated the inaugural wounded warrior competition in London. The closing concert, held at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, featured a headlining performance by the Foo Fighters, with sets from Kaiser Chiefs, Ellie Goulding, Ryan Adams and James Blunt, among others. During the ceremony, each member of the USA team was presented with the Invictus Medallion by Second Lady, Dr. Jill Biden.

The Invictus Games brought together 13 different countries for the intense competition. “At the end of the day it didn’t matter what country you were from,” said Texas Robbie Gaupp, who won gold, silver and bronze medals on the track. “We are all fighting the same battle and that battle is with ourselves — we are all winners.”

Invictus Games at a Glance

413: Total athletes

98: American athletes

93: US medals won: 28 gold, 35 silver, 20 bronze

13: Nations: Afghanistan, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Georgia, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, USA

160: Families flown by Hero Miles

9: Sports: Track and Field, Archery, Wheelchair Basketball, Road Cycling, Indoor Rowing, Powerlifting, Wheelchair Rugby, Swimming and Sitting Volleyball

1: Experience of a lifetime


My husband, a heart patient and diabetic (and

Vietnam veteran), contracted cellulitis in his left

leg and foot. He had been hospitalized for three

weeks in Ohio, receiving antibiotics. But we

wanted to go home to Florida. He drove 16 hours

on Tuesday to get home but once arriving his

leg was terribly swollen. He went to the hospital

and was immediately admitted. The challenge is

I'm legally blind...how can I be with my husband

every day? Thank you Fisher House for allowing

me to stay here!! I can take my scooter and

walker across the street every day and be with

my husband. It has been very difficult to treat my

husband because the doctors aren't sure what

type of bacteria is infecting his leg. I've been safe

and protected while here at the Fisher House and

worries for my husband have been reduced. Lord

bless you Fisher House!

Entries from Fisher House Guests

Within the walls of each Fisher House guest

suite are journals filled with entries containing

stories of a loved one, encouraging words, or

just a simple thank you. These words will be

read by the next family staying in that room,

for them to find peace and hope. Here, we share

a few of these words, written by our families.

I stayed at the Fisher House while my son, a

disabled USMC Veteran, received treatment.

We were greeted by the most friendly staff

immediately making us feel most welcomed.

The hospitality was superb in these beautiful

accommodations. The arrangements lowered

the anxiety concerning our visit. May the

services which are unexpected and most

welcomed continue to be available to the

family of veterans for years to come. The

Fisher House will become one of the programs

that we will support. God Bless everyone who

works at and supports the Fisher House.

A Proud Supporter,

A Proud Mama of a US Marine!!

Ooh Rah!!!

Dear Diary,

Lord bless you Fisher House!



Cecelia Gore has been the Executive Director of the Brewers Community Foundation since 2009, which she describes as the “charitable arm” of the Milwaukee Brewers. As a lifetime Wisconsin resident, she graduated from Messmer High School and earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree at Alverno College. Being a resident of the Milwaukee area for so long certainly aided in her understanding of the community, and the Brewers Community Foundation has given her the proper outlet to help organizations in need.

“In the winter of 2009, I led the rebranding efforts and created several new programs to strengthen the Brewers’ charitable initiatives throughout the area,” she said. “Our funding efforts support quality non-profits in the areas of health, education, recreation and basic needs.”

In 2012, Gore and the Brewers Community Foundation agreed to include Fisher House Wisconsin in their list of supported organizations by donating proceeds from the annual 5k Famous Racing Sausages Run/Walk.

“We recently made a decision to add a fundraising component to the race and wanted to identify an organization that we were confident about having a tremendous impact,” Gore said. “Fisher House was a perfect match, and our neighbor!”

Proceeds from the event led to a $100,000 donation in 2012 and another $75,000 in 2013. Gore also revealed that the Brewers Community Foundation will once again donate proceeds from this year’s race to Fisher House Wisconsin.

The Fisher House thanks Cecelia, the Brewers Community Foundation and the Milwaukee Brewers organization for their past, present and future support. Fisher House Wisconsin could not ask for a better neighbor.


Part of the Brewers Community Foundation includes supporting the Fisher House under construction at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center. Ken Fisher was invited to throw out the first pitch at a recent baseball game. Jonathan Lucroy, Milwaukee Brewers All-Star catcher, and generous supporter of Fisher House, was his battery mate and caught the strike.

THROWING OUT THE FIRST PITCH

EXCERPTED FROM GUY MORSE

REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION

BREWERS MAKE GOOD NEIGHBORS


DAY IN THE

LIFE 2014PHOTO CONTEST

Through our annual photo contest, we share a glimpse into what happens within the walls of the Fisher House — the compassion that is given to military families going through a difficult time in their life. The contest helps capture the mission, spirit and love inside a Fisher House. Here are some of the photos and winners from this year. Enjoy!

VA Palo Alto Health Care System Fisher HousePhoto by Curt Campbell1st

Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center Fisher HousePhoto by Nancy McKnew3rd

VA Palo Alto Health Care System Fisher HousePhoto by Curt Campbell2nd

If you have a special memory or high quality photo you’d like to share with the Foundation, please send it to us at [email protected]!

VA North Texas Health Care System Fisher HousePhoto by Bruce Morris

Manager’s Choice


Fisher House Foundation once again partnered with Kangaroo Express, one of the leading convenience store chains for the southeastern US, for their 2014 Salute Our Troops campaign, supporting service men and women and their families. Their summer long initiative featured motorcycle charity rides,

“ROO Rides,” that stopped at Kangaroo Express locations, parks, memorials, and more, to drive hometown support to recognize military heroes. For more information on this year’s event, visit www.KESalute.com.


We thank Larry for being just one of our thoughtful and dedicated managers!

THANK YOU to the Kangaroo Express employees and customers for supporting military families.

Your support has raised nearly $1 million to build a new Fisher House at Ft. Bragg.

We are greatful for our 2014 partnership!

The Patriot introduces a new feature to our magazine — Meet the Manager! Fisher House Foundation is privileged to have amazing leadership at each Fisher House location. Our managers do a wonderful job of taking care of the families that call Fisher House a home away from home.

Meet the Manager

Larry Vetter, Keesler AFB Fisher House

Keesler AFB Fisher House manager Larry Vetter has been with the program for nearly 16 years after retiring from the Navy in 1997. He keeps their 8-room home immaculate, and is known to whip up a gourmet dinner or two in the home’s kitchen for his guests to enjoy — and rave about.

“My favorite meal to cook is meatloaf,” said Larry. “We’re having pork loin tonight though. I use a rub, let it set all day and then cook it in the oven. If you go hungry here, it’s your own fault.”

The cozy home makes sure there is a meal done each night, even if it’s not Larry cooking every night. They have groups come in frequently to provide for the military families.

Larry and the community make sure that their special guests are always taken care of.

R O O R I D E S

“ You’re here to take care of people — to help them.”

– Larry Vetter

Mets’ Fans SupportFisher House

Photos by Ashley Estill


Ballpark Voyage for VeteransAndrew Samonsky and his father, Chuck Samonsky, set out earlier this summer to fulfill an ultimate “bucket list” dream — to visit and see a game at every major league baseball stadium. Andrew and Chuck wanted to do something positive while they experienced their 67 day, 15,000 mile, 30 ballpark baseball fantasy. They heard about Fisher House Foundation and immediately knew what that something positive would be. Chuck is a US Army veteran who spent 18 months in hospitals recovering from wounds he suffered on his last day in a combat zone in Vietnam. Chuck’s wife, Susan, was a flight attendant who was able to get his bedside, but often slept in waiting rooms and airport lounges. Knowing how much a Fisher House would have meant to his family made it an easy decision to turn their baseball odyssey into a fundraiser for Fisher House. Their video announcing their effort became a Foundation favorite, visit our YouTube page to see the video!

A League of Their Own and Coming Home for Fisher House FoundationThere's “no crying in baseball,” but there are pledges of support and donations for every run scored by the DC Thunder and the other teams of the Eastern Women’s Baseball Conference. During the Diamond Classic, an international, ladies, fast-pitch baseball tournament played over Memorial Day weekend, 12 teams from around the country and Canada raised funds and awareness with their “Coming Home for Fisher House” initiative.

Charity Softball Game at Citi FieldNew York Mets baseball legends John Franco and Dwight “Doc” Gooden joined Citi and members from the Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team for a special charity softball game at Citi Field that raised over $25,000 to benefit Fisher House Foundation. Thanks to Citi, the Mets, and everyone who participated in the amazing day!


Fisher House Foundation’s Hero Miles program has reached a huge milestone in supporting our service members and their families. In the program’s 10th year, we have booked our 50,000th ticket. That means over 50,000 airline tickets have made it possible for a wounded, injured or ill service member to have a loved one by their side during their recovery. The Hero Miles program would not exist without the support of the generous public, donating their unused award miles. For more information on how to donate, please visit www.fisherhouse.org.

To see what other projects Hero Miles has supported, please see our Invictus Games coverage beginning on page 17.

50,000 TICKETS BOOKED A MILESTONE FOR HERO MILES

Houston Fisher House

Salt Lake City Fisher House

A Tribute to Nicole Marie Archer AsheEach Fisher House we build is gifted to the military or VA fully furnished — thoughtfully filled with beautiful furniture and unique photographs and artwork. Much of the artwork you see inside a Fisher House was completed by Nicole Ashe, a talented artist whose work helped make each house a home. Unfortunately, Nicole recently passed away, but we consider it a privilege and an honor to have her work displayed in our homes. Here, we share a message about Nicole’s inspiration from her husband, Daniel.

"Nicole was deeply committed to honor the Fisher House Foundation's vision of healing through the love of family and in the creation of sanctuary to allow healing to begin. She spoke often that beauty can balance hardship and that art can calm the churning waters of stress. Nicole was tremendously moved by the stories of so many military families whose world is traumatized by the injury of a loved one and the overwhelming stress of being far away from the comfort of home. She passionately believed that if any person found quiet moments of beauty and contemplation in her art or within the space in which it was displayed, then her art served a meaningful purpose. She embraced this relationship with every painting she produced and recognized that there is no greater gift to an artist — to create meaningful works of art that offer beauty in the world."

10th ANNIVERSARY10th ANNIVERSARY

I first learned of Fisher House Foundation and Team Fisher House in 2011 from a fellow member of Soldier’s Race Team, James Armstrong. Knowing how strong my love was for those who sacrificed for our country, James told me of all the wonderful things Fisher House does for soldiers, veterans and their families. After reading more about the Foundation and Team Fisher House missions, I decided to join the team at the 2011 Marine Corps Marathon.

I was amazed at the wonderful support I received from Team Fisher House before, during, and after the marathon. I remember waking up the morning of the race and finding my hotel door decorated with streamers and a certificate thanking ME for running for THEM. I thought it ironic they were thanking me when they were doing all the work.

The entire race weekend experience was so moving and inspirational.

I ran wearing a laminated list of the names of SSG Minnick’s friends who were killed during his 20 years of service in the Army as an infantryman…I called them my “angels.” During the race, fellow runners asked about the list, which gave me the chance to share their stories. I also met many others running the 26.2 mile course in honor of loved ones who died serving our country.

At the end of the race, “the hill,” I was so emotionally and physically drained. The Team Fisher House coach and program assistant, Stacy Toner, stood right by me and walked me up to the finish line. I was crying, overjoyed that I finished the race, and overjoyed by the love I received from Fisher House and the people I met along the way. The “angels” I carried on my back protected my legs and I finished! I knew after crossing the line I would be back to run with Fisher House the following year.

For the 2012 race, I added more “angels.” I put a post on my Facebook page to all my friends asking if they knew someone who was killed serving, who had died as a result of serving, or who served and is since gone. I asked that

27

THE STORY OF THE TEAM FISHER HOUSE “ANGELS SASH RUNNER”

WhyIRun forTeam Fisher House

Photos courtesy of Stephanine Ruzicka

www.teamfisherhouse.org

BY STEPHANIE RUZICKA


they leave me their name, rank and picture, promising to wear it proudly through the race. I received several names and pictures and made each into a laminated card that I wore as a sash during the race. That sash grew more in 2013, encompassing my entire back. I find it brings me strength when running, but most importantly it honors these brave men and women and their families and reminds us of the sacrifices they made and make every day. Although sad the sash has grown, it is a great way to remember them.

C A L I F O R N I A

SAN DIEGO NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER

San Diego, CA

Navy Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion One spent a day using their skills to give back to the Fisher House families. The house received some TLC with cleaning and repainting, as well as dismantling and removing old playground equipment to make way for new. Equipment Operator First Class Travis Moore preps the house front door for a fresh coat of paint.

A L A S K A

JBER HOSPITAL

Elmendorf AFB, AK

If you’re a resident of the Alaska Fisher House, you may see a unique visitor to their home. A black bear is a regular visitor to the Fisher House. His most recent adventure took him to the strawberry patch for a little snack.

C O L O R A D O

VA EASTERN COLORADO

HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

Aurora, CO

Denver Fisher House’s community fundraiser, Melanie Starkman spent time with retired Air Force First Sergeant Henry ‘Hank’ Cornellisson. Sgt. Cornellisson was stationed in the Philippines during WWII. On May 10, 1942, Sgt. Cornellisson was captured by the Japanese in Malay Bay. In October and November of 1942 he spent 33 days aboard the hell ship Tottori Maru in transit to Mitsui Camp, Japan. Sgt. Cornellisson spent the next 3 1/2 years in POW camps, and the next 50 years with undiagnosed PTSD. He was finally diagnosed in 1995 and received treatment. Sgt. Cornellisson has written his memoir, "Hank, A Life Well Lived," and is donating the proceeds from the sale of his book to the Denver Fisher House Foundation.

DAVID GRANT USAF MEDICAL CENTER

Travis AFB, CA

The David Grant Medical Center Spouses Group, at Travis AFB, organized a golf tournament to raise money to help build Travis Fisher House II. Thanks to their coordination, the tournament was held at Chardonnay Golf Course, a beautiful course in Napa. Even though it poured down rain all day, the golfers were so thrilled to support the Travis Fisher House that they played the tournament in the drenching rain anyway and managed to have a great time. The tournament was a success, raising over $29,000 for the Fisher House. The Spouses Group has already started planning a tournament for next year to support the operating costs of the Travis Fisher Houses.

The Patriot always loves to check in and see what our Fisher Houses have been up to. Here we outline a few highlights from houses around the world.

HOUSE ROUND-UP

Photo by Jim Spellman / 60 AMW Public Affairs Office

A huge thank you to all veteran service organizations for your support of the Fisher House program. We have received such generous support throughout the nation and we thank them for continuing to have an impact on military families!


D E L AWA R E

FISHER HOUSE FOR

FAMILIES OF THE FALLEN

Dover AFB, DE

Prayer Shawls for Fallen Soldiers is a group that provides shawls for families staying at the Dover Fisher House to observe the dignified transfer of a loved one. Their gifts provide gentle support to the special guests at this home.

JAMES A. HALEY

VETERANS’ HOSPITAL

Tampa, FL

The Tampa house is undergoing renovations to freshen it up and ensure a comfortable setting for our families. During that time, 20 families a night were lodged by the VA at an area hotel very close to the hospital which also provided on-site handicap accessible transportation. To continue to show support, the community generously hosted a monthly meal and guests were showered with a variety of helpful gifts, to include gift cards to major stores and national chain restaurants. After receiving one such gift, a family member wrote “The gift card I received was a complete surprise and I cried happy tears! That was such a kindness.”

D I S T R I C T O F C O L U M B I A

WASHINGTON DC

VA MEDICAL CENTER

Washington, DC

DC VA Fisher House manager Stacey Childs was recently one of two DC VA employees honored for their dedication to veterans at the hospital’s 11th annual awards ceremony. This event celebrated those in the community who make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Stacey was awarded the “Rehabilitation Award of the Year.”

F L O R I DA

EGLIN AIR FORCE

HOSPITAL

Eglin AFB, FL

The Eglin Fisher House recently added a beautification project in the back of the facility. A brick paved patio and walkway was constructed to provide physically disabled guests an access path to the gazebo. Also, two grills were moved closer to the existing patio for guests' ease of use. Since the new addition, guests and visitors have had nothing but positive feedback. The latest addition adds not only practicality but is also aesthetically pleasing, making the grounds more beautiful and inviting for future families.

THE NORTH FLORIDA/

SOUTH GEORGIA VHS

FISHER HOUSE

Gainesville, FL

The North Florida/South Georgia VHS Fisher House at the Gainesville VA Medical Center was excited to have opened their doors to guests on Monday, July 7. The Fisher House was pleased to welcome Mrs. Patricia Otis-Miller and Mrs. Karolyn Sutherland as the first guests on the same day. They were both very appreciative that the Fisher House was open, as it allowed them the opportunity to be very close to their veteran and eased their mind about having to find somewhere to stay.

G E O R G I A

CHARLIE NORWOOD

VA MEDICAL CENTER

Augusta, GA

In honor of Mother’s Day, Georgia’s Music Hall of Fame Band, “George Croft and the Vellotones,” performed a free concert for Fisher House families, visitors, VA patients and staff in the VA second floor courtyard. They performed a variety of tunes including rock, oldies, beach music and blues.

DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER

ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Gordon, GA

Boy Scout Troop 122 completed their Eagle Scout Project at the Fort Gordon Fisher House. The group assembled six concrete tables and laid some pavers at the house. Two of the concrete picnic tables were configured for wheelchair accessibility. Thanks to the scouts for your support.


K E N T U C K Y

BLANCHFIELD ARMY COMMUNITY

Fort Campbell, KY

The Christian County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee began hosting lunches at the Fort Campbell Fisher House once a month, in conjunction with the Association of the US Army. Thank you to both groups for supporting military families each month.

I L L I N O I S

HINES VA HOSPITAL

Hines, IL

Hines Fisher House guest Shirley Armstrong, and her husband, veteran Will Armstrong, renewed their wedding vows in the hospital chapel on July 7, 2014 exactly seven years after they were married. When they were first married they promised each other to renew their vows every seven years. They weren’t sure if it would happen this year, but the other guests at Hines Fisher House and the staff on the hospital unit rallied together to make the day happen. Fisher House guests made a bridal bouquet, boutonniere, put together wedding music and acted as a maid of honor. The bride and groom were thrilled and so appreciative of everyone’s efforts. This will always be a day that they will remember.

When the Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl they proved to the world that they are champions. Every day at VA Puget Sound Fisher House we see the heart of champions as we watch family members putting their lives on hold while they support their ill or injured patients. They don't get trophies or parades, but they do demonstrate what it means to put others first and remain courageous in the midst of uncertainty.

Phyllis Sappenfield was a guest at the VA Puget Sound Fisher House several times while her husband, Jack, underwent surgeries and treatments for cancer. Despite the immense challenges of her husband's illness, Phyllis always had a smile on her face and a warm, loving heart big enough to offer caring and support to others despite her cares. So when a family friend arranged for some Seahawk players to visit Jack in the hospital, Phyllis insisted that they visit other patients and that they start their tour at the Fisher House. On Friday, April 18, linebacker Mike Morgan and defensive lineman Jesse Williams arrived with some team trainers and the Lombardi Trophy. The excitement of the guests was palpable but it went through the roof when they let folks hold the trophy! Sadly, Jack passed away at the end of May, but his family will always remember his joy and excitement during that special Seahawks visit.

During their championship season the Seahawks brought Seattle together in a truly remarkable way. By sharing the Super Bowl trophy with patients and families, they gave everyone the opportunity to feel like the champions too.

M A R Y L A N D

MALCOLM GROW MEDICAL CENTER

Andrews AFB, MD

MSgt DeVon Uzzelle, USAF(Ret) placed an engraved paver in the memorial garden at Fisher House, Joint Base Andrews, in memory of his father. MSgt Uzzelle stayed at Fisher House for six weeks after his father suffered a stroke. Mr. Herbert Uzzelle, a US Air Force veteran, passed away in May, but the paver serves as a tribute to a veteran and a family who put service before self.

Puget Sound acting manager Michelle Power with Seahawks Jesse Williams.

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THE LOMBARDI TROPHYCOMES TO PUGET SOUND FISHER HOUSE

SUPER BOWL XLVIII CHAMPIONS


WALTER REED NATIONAL

MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER

Forest Glen, MD

New furniture, artwork and more were moved into the Forest Glen Fisher House, courtesy of Bassett Furniture. The upgrade was something Bassett Furniture was happy to do as a way of supporting military families getting treatment far from home. Thank you Bassett for the support.

M I N N E S O TA

MINNEAPOLIS VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

Minneapolis, MN

The Minneapolis Fisher House was the recipient of 16 new mattress sets that were donated by Cargill Corporation. Thank you for the generous contribution!

M I S S I S S I P P I

KEESLER AFB HOSPITAL

Keesler AFB, MS

Country singer Jamie Tate has visited several Fisher Houses, stopping by to say hello to guest families and do a performance. She visited the Keesler Fisher House in March. Thank you Jamie for supporting Fisher House.

M I S S O U R I

ST. LOUIS VA MEDICAL CENTERSt. Louis, MO

The St. Louis Fisher House aids many military families. And while a thank you isn’t necessary, the manager recently received a lovely note of appreciation. Here’s an excerpt of thanks from a former guest.

“It truly seems that a design greater than man has hand-picked and specifically gifted the staff to answer the call of meeting the needs of the guests with genuine care and concern. To merely say ‘Thank You’ seems so insignificant. It is with much gratitude, that I say, ‘I truly thank God for Fisher House in Saint Louis, Missouri which is housed on the Jefferson Barracks VA Campus. A special thanks to the Fishers and their family who envisioned this blessing and could never know just how many lives they would so richly touch.’”

WALTER REED NATIONAL

MILITARY MEDICAL CENTER

Bethesda, MD

On June 21st the Employees of Bethesda Home Depot and EMC, a software firm, along with members of the White House Fellows, came out to help rebuild the roofs to the storage sheds and the BBQ shelter. Some of the volunteers from EMC and Home Depot were also veterans. The group spent the rainy day repairing the roofs, with all the materials being donated by Home Depot.

N E W YO R K

ALBANY FISHER HOUSE

Albany, NY

Michael Fitzpatrick, the new Manager of the Albany Fisher House, would like to thank all of the volunteers, guests, Stratton VAMC staff and Fisher House Foundation personnel who have assisted in making his transition a smooth one. It is truly this spirit of teamwork and togetherness which allows us to succeed in our mission. Many hands have participated in performing daily tasks as well as larger scale projects and initiatives thus providing a valuable orientation. Your efforts do not go unnoticed and as our “original” VA Fisher House moves past its 20th year we will continue to work together to provide the highest level of service and comfort to our veterans and their families.

GREATFUL NATION BLANKETPendleton Woolen Mills has been supporting Fisher House since 2006, donating nearly $100,000 to support military families since then, with the sale of their “grateful nation blanket.” Each colored stripe in the blanket represents a service ribbon awarded to veterans of historical conflicts. Centered on the blanket is a representation of stars and stripes. From the sale of each blanket goes a donation to Fisher House Foundation. Thank you for supporting Fisher House and military families for the past eight years.


P E N N S Y LVA N I A

VA PITTSBURGH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Pittsburgh, PA

Research Scientists Dr. Lauren Broyles and Jennifer Jenkins of VA Pittsburgh's Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion were discussing Broyles' meeting with the owner of Serenity Farm in Tarentum, PA. The owner wanted to donate produce from his garden to local food pantries in exchange for volunteer garden helpers. Broyles, who has experience volunteering in food pantries and community gardens, wanted to have her colleagues help care for the garden and harvest vegetables. But Broyles also needed someone to donate the food to. Jenkins' idea was to combine the garden project with her own community service idea for their co-workers in VA Pittsburgh's Research Office Building — cook a homemade meal for guests of the Fisher House. The Farm-to-Table project, half-jokingly referred to as the

"Hearts and Spades Project," was born. Broyles approached Fisher House Manager at the Pittsburgh Fisher House and on June 16, eight volunteers from the Center and other research centers at VA Pittsburgh prepared a dinner of make-your-own Mexican pizzas, Mexican potatoes, watermelon, and cookies for the guests of Fisher House.

HOUSE ROUND-UPN O R T H C A R O L I N A

CAMP LEJEUNE NAVAL HOSPITAL

Camp Lejeune, NC

The Great American Cookie created a super cookie that was nearly eight feet by six feet. The giant cookie was sold in pieces one Saturday to benefit the Camp Lejeune Fisher House. The cookie was made from 432 slices and took two days to bake and three hours with three artists working at once to frost.

WOMACK ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Bragg, NC

A groundbreaking ceremony was held at Fort Bragg in anticipation of their new home. This Fisher House will be a 12-suite facility located on the Womack grounds.

O H I O

WRIGHT-PATTERSON MEDICAL CENTER

Wright-Patterson AFB, OH

Fisher House volunteer Dede Richardson approached the Wright-Patterson house with an idea of starting a monthly crafting afternoon for guests. Within weeks, Dede hosted the first craft afternoon in the Fisher House dining room, which has since turned into a regular event that is a hit with military families. The craft afternoon consists of a minimum of three craft stations for guests to enjoy, always making sure the craft is ideal for the age and ability level of all guests. Each craft ties in with the season or house event, so the items can be used for table decorations or around the house. Patriotic wreaths were recently made to add a nice welcome touch to the front doors. This event provides a nice venue for the guests to craft, relax and enjoy visiting with other guests.


T E X A S

VA NORTH TEXAS

HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Dallas, TX

The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Foundation recently donated funds to the Dallas Fisher House to create a state-of-the-art theater room. Fisher House guests have enjoyed viewing the latest movies in the 3D television, while relaxing in their leather chairs, with popcorn machine close by.

T E N N E S S E E

TENNESSEE VALLEY

HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Murfreesboro, TN

A group of 23 folks rode motorcycles to the Tennessee Fisher House to make a donation in honor of SSG Seth Ricketts, the fallen soldier son of Mr. Bill Rickets of Corinth MS. The group made their way to the Tennessee Fisher House for a tour and presentation of the donation.

CARL R. DARNALL

ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Fort Hood, TX

After the success of the Tripler Fisher House’s 5K Run, Walk or Roll, the Fort Hood and Fort Campbell Fisher Houses have decided to host the event as well. Both events will be held on November 1. Each location will feature a 5K Run, Walk or Roll that will lead the participants along a path of donated boots that each have a picture of a fallen service member who have died in combat since 9/11. Currently, this display will host almost 7,000 boots. Interested participants can contact the Fisher House at Fort Hood for more information and the Survivor Outreach Service at Fort Campbell. Each event is organized and executed through the support of the community. Hundreds of volunteers put in countless hours to prepare these boots and after the run the boots will be arranged in a display where people can go through and find their loved ones and battle buddies. The pictures are color coded by year so they can find them easily.

V I R G I N I A

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER,

PORTSMOUTH

Portsmouth, VA

The Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding club held its annual Poker Run and raised over $10,000 in support of the Fisher House Portsmouth. This was the 8th Annual run and was quite a success. There were several other bike riding clubs that rode in the parade of bikes to make this event memorable. The event included door prizes, charity auction, and a bike show. Some of the categories were Best in Show, Best Bagger, Best Metric, Best Classic and Best Custom Bike. Thank you, Salty Dawgs, for your continued support of the Fisher House Portsmouth.

WA S H I N G T O N

MADIGAN ARMY

MEDICAL CENTER

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA

Branden Hiatt, a retired sergeant first class, and information technology student at the University of Washington, Tacoma, used a class project to contribute to the JBLM Fisher House. He and five classmates met with the Fisher House manager to determine what she needed and decided to make a new user-friendly website, including some internal programs to help their referral system. The new system will be complete in October and will be a huge help to their home.

U N I T E D K I N G D O M

QUEEN ELIZABETH

HOSPITAL BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham, UK

The UK Fisher House recently celebrated their first birthday, with a barbeque for guests and supporters. In their first year open, the Birmingham home provided over 5,000 nights of lodging for military families. Throughout the day, they also had a BBC documentary crew at the home, as well as two news crews documenting the special day.

We would like to congratulate Isaac Howard and Dan Hersrud on their retirement. Both men have contributed to the success of the Fisher House program and we wish them well. Isaac was our manager at the Fort Hood Fisher House; and Dan was the program director for the Army Fisher Houses. Thank you both for your service!


Travis AFB, CA

Gainesville, FL

DEDICATING TWO NEW FISHER HOUSES:

GAINESVILLE AND TRAVIS AFB

Fisher House Foundation completed houses 63 and 64, which were dedicated in Gainesville, FL and at Travis Air Force Base, CA, earlier this year. The Gainesville Fisher House is the first at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, a home that will offer lodging for 20 families each night.

Travis AFB opened their second Fisher House at the base, which provides lodging for 16 more families each night. Their first Fisher House was opened in 1994 and has had a lengthy waiting list for over four years.

Weinberg Foundation

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc. has a mission of supporting financially disadvantaged individuals and families by providing grants to direct service organizations. They are one of the largest private foundations in the US; focusing on providing support to organizations that meet basic needs such as shelter, nutrition, health, and socialization. Since 2011, the Weinberg Foundation has been a wonderful partner to Fisher House Foundation, providing over $3 million in support of the Fisher House program. They have helped build and/or support Fisher Houses at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD; Fort Belvoir, VA; Murfreesboro, TN; Gainesville, FL; and Travis AFB, CA. Thank you for your support of our military families!

Helping to dedicate the newest Travis Fisher House were longtime friends and supporters of the program, Armstrong & Getty. The popular radio host duo have been helping raise funds and awareness for Fisher House since 2001, and have raised a total of $1.25 million through their listeners. In honor of their efforts, they were presented with a memorabilia coin by Foundation president David Coker.

Listeners of Armstrong& Getty


IN ACTIONFUTURE FISHER HOUSES

West Haven, CT

Shop Rite Stores, long-time supporters of Fisher House Connecticut, have once again supported local efforts to bring a Fisher House to the West Haven VA Medical Center with their “Shop Rite Initiative 2014”. With the help of owner, Harry Garafalo, his five shoreline Shop Rite Stores raised over $90,000 for the construction of Fisher House CT. Almost 100 volunteers and store employees manned booths inside the stores from Memorial Day to Fourth of July, spreading word about Fisher House and supporting local communities.

Small Town with a Big Heart Founded as one of the original New Hampshire townships almost four centuries ago, the town of Hampton lies on New Hampshire’s brief coastline between Massachusetts and Maine. Hampton’s 15,000 citizens benefit from the summer tourists who seek out Hampton’s beaches, cottages, shops and restaurants in the warmer weather. But once the tourists return home, the day-to-day life and concerns of the residents are the same as any small town across the country. Every municipality wants to address the needs of their own community, but what makes Hampton special is what they elected to do for those outside their community.

Who could be more familiar with Hampton’s community’s needs than Richard Ballou, a retired fireman, and Victor Demarco, a retired policeman?

Their decades of community service and interaction with the local government made them intimately familiar with the wants and welfare of their friends and neighbors. But as two Vietnam-era veterans, they were also intimately familiar with the price others from places far beyond Hampton have paid to ensure that same welfare.

Richard and Victor felt strongly about helping our service members and their families. They began discussing what they could do, and started researching nonprofits that support military members. After some inquiries, web searches and phone calls, they liked what they had learned about Fisher House Foundation.

Richard contacted the Foundation, and mentioned that he and a few others wanted to champion a proposal to their town council to make a contribution from the city of Hampton to Fisher House. To help ensure support, he asked the Foundation if Hampton’s contribution could remain in New England, and once he received reassurance that their contribution could be dedicated towards the future Fisher House planned for the VA Medical Center in West Haven, Connecticut, Richard and Victor took action.

In February of 2014, at the Annual Town Forum, Victor and Richard submitted a petition for the Town of Hampton to “raise and appropriate $25,000 dollars as a donation to the Fisher House Foundation, Inc.”

Fisher House Foundation is blessed to get contributions from all over the country. What makes Hampton's donation fairly unique, though, is that most towns' donations come through events and fundraisers organized by local groups, not through an appropriation vetted and authorized by a municipality's tax base.

In April, Fisher House Vice President for Operations, Brian Gawne, visited Hampton to meet Victor and Richard, and accept a ceremonial check at City Hall.

"It's something that makes us take notice," said Gawne. "This is a 'Norman Rockwell' moment. This is a 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' moment. A small town like this has its own issues in its community, but the people still think about helping the service members and their families. It's just symbolic of this nation as a whole... This is what the country's about."

NH


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The following projects are currently in design or

under construction:

Southern Arizona VA Health Care System

Tucson, AZ

Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton

Camp Pendleton, CA

VA Long Beach Healthcare System

Long Beach, CA

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital

Tampa, FL (second house)

Womack Army Medical Center

Fort Bragg, NC

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System

N. Las Vegas, NV

Portland VA Medical Center

Portland, OR

Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center

Charleston, SC

Madigan Army Medical Center

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA (second house)

Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center

Milwaukee, WI

ALASKA

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital4943 Zeamer Ave.673 MDSS/SGS/FHElmendorf AFB, AK 99506 (907) 222-1673Manager: Jenny [email protected]

CALIFORNIA

David Grant USAF Medical Center I, II100 Bodin CircleTravis AFB, CA 94535-1804(707) 423-7550 fax: (707) 423-7552Manager: Charlene [email protected]

Naval Medical Center San Diego I, II34800 Bob Wilson Dr. Bldg 46San Diego, CA 92134-5000(619) 532-9055 fax: (619) 532-5216Manager: Kristin [email protected]

VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System 11301 Wilshire Blvd. (10AF)Bldg 512Los Angeles, CA 90073(310) 268-4457 fax: (310) 268-3449Manager: Sharon Hudson [email protected]

VA Palo Alto Health Care System3801 Miranda Ave.Palo Alto, CA 94304(650) 493-5000 x. 60384 fax: (650) 849-1269Manager: Betsey [email protected]

COLORADO

VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System1954 Quentin St. Aurora, CO 80010(303) 399-8020 x. 2049 fax: (303) 364-4882Manager: Tessa [email protected]

DELAWARE

Fisher House for Families of the Fallen220 Lajes St.Dover AFB, DE 19902(302) 677-5317Manager: TSgt. Cheryl [email protected]

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Washington DC VA Medical Center50 Irving St. NWWashington, DC 20422(202) 745-2482 Manager: Stacey [email protected]

FLORIDA

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System10000 Bay Pines Blvd. Bay Pines, FL 33744(727) 319-1350 fax: (727) 319-1106Manager: Rena [email protected]

Eglin Hospital350 Boatner Rd.Eglin AFB, FL 32542(850) 883-2865Manager: Ron [email protected]

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital13000 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Tampa, FL 33612(813) 910-3000 fax: (813) 910-3088Manager: Paula [email protected]

Malcom Randall VA Hospital1601 SW Archer Rd (11i)Gainesville, FL 32608(352) 376-1611 x. 4469Manager: Tanya E. [email protected]

Miami VA Healthcare System1201 NW 16th St.Miami, FL 33125(305) 575-7260 fax: (305) 575-7261Manager: Carolyn [email protected]

West Palm Beach VA Medical Center7305 N. Military Trail-Route 136W. Palm Beach, FL 33410(561) 422-5554 fax: (561) 442-8793Manager: Shelley [email protected]

GEORGIA

Charlie Norwood VA Medical CenterOne Freedom Way Augusta, GA 30904(706) 729-5773 Manager: Anne [email protected] Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical CenterFisher House Rd. - Bldg 280Fort Gordon, GA 30905-5650(706) 787-7100 fax: (706) 787-5106Manager: Francisco [email protected]

HAWAII

Tripler Army Medical Center I, II315 Krukowski Rd.Honolulu, HI 96819(808) 433-1291 x. 28 fax: (808) 433-3619 Manager: Anita [email protected]

RANGEDOWN

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

FISHER HOUSE DIRECTORY


ILLINOIS

Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital5000 S 5th Ave. Hines, IL 60141(708) 202-7154 fax: (708) 202-7155Manager: Holly [email protected]

KENTUCKY

Blanchfield Army Community Hospital652 Joel Dr.Fort Campbell, KY 42223(270) 798-8330 fax: (270) 798-8804Manager: Wendy J. [email protected]

MARYLAND

Malcolm Grow Clinics & Surgery Center1076 West Perimeter Rd.Andrews AFB, MD 20762(301) 981-1243 fax: (301) 981-7629Manager: Janet Grampp [email protected]

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center I, II, III, IV, V24 Stokes Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814-5002(301) 295-5334 fax: (301) 295-5632Manager: Kenneth E. [email protected]

Walter Reed – Forest Glen Annex2460 Linden Ln. Bldg 173Silver Spring, MD 20910(301) 295-7374 x. 10 fax: (301) 295-8012Manager: Maurice [email protected]

MASSACHUSETTS

VA Boston Healthcare System1400 VFW Pkwy.West Roxbury, MA 02132(857) 203-4000 Manager: Elizabeth St. [email protected]

MINNESOTA

Minneapolis VA Health Care System I, II1 Veterans Dr.Minneapolis, MN 55417(612) 467-5602 fax: (612) 970-5864Manager: Marge [email protected]

MISSISSIPPI

Keesler Medical Center509 Fisher St. Keesler AFB, MS 39534-2599(228) 377-8264 fax: (228) 377-7691Manager: Larry [email protected]

MISSOURI

VA St. Louis Health Care System1 Jefferson Barracks Rd. St. Louis, MO 63125(314) 894-6145 fax: (314) 894-6147Manager: Vanniecia [email protected]

NEW YORK

Stratton VA Medical Center113 Holland Ave.Albany, NY 12208(518) 626-6919 fax: (518) 626-5452 Manager: Michael Fitzpatrick [email protected]

NORTH CAROLINA

Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital4 Recovery WayCamp Lejeune, NC 28547(910) 450-3885 fax: (910) 450-3887Manager: Josie [email protected]

Womack Army Medical Center12 Bassett St. Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000(910) 432-1486 fax: (910) 432-3825Manager: Lorie [email protected]

OHIO

Cincinnati VA Medical Center3200 Vine St.Cincinnati, OH 45220(513) 475-6571 fax: (513) 487-6661Manager: Karrie Hagan [email protected]

Wright-Patterson Medical Center I, II417 Schlatter Dr.Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433(937) 257-0855 fax: (937) 656-2150Manager: Karen [email protected]

PENNSYLVANIA

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemUniversity Drive C, Bldg 33Pittsburgh, PA 15240(412) 360-2030 fax: (937) 656-2150Manager: Heather [email protected]

TENNESSEE

Tennessee Valley Healthcare System3400 Lebanon PikeMurfreesboro, TN 37129(615) 225-5758Manager: Becky Wood [email protected]

TEXAS

Brooke Army Medical Center I,II,III,IV San Antonio Military Medical Center3623 George C. Beach Dr.Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234(210) 916-6000 fax: (210) 916-6488Manager: Inge [email protected]

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical CenterBldg. 36015 Fisher Ln.Fort Hood, TX 78254(254) 286-7927 fax: (254) 286-7929Manager: Theresa [email protected]

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center I, II2002 Holcombe Blvd.Houston, TX 77030(713) 794-8095 fax: (713) 794-7194Manager: Frank [email protected]

VA North Texas Health Care System4500 S. Lancaster Rd. Bldg 79Dallas, TX 75216(214) 857-2574 fax: (214) 462-4923Manager: Lydia Henderson [email protected]

South Texas Veterans Health Care System7485 Wurzbach RoadSan Antonio, Texas 78229(210) 617-5300 x. 16626Manager: Erik [email protected]

Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center I, II, III San Antonio Military Medical Center1445 Foster Ave. Bldg 3865Lackland AFB, TX 78236(210) 671-6037 fax: (210) 671-6020Manager: Ramona [email protected]

William Beaumont Army Medical Center Bldg 7360 Rodriguez St.El Paso, TX 79930(915) 569-1860 fax: (915) 569-1862Manager: Jennifer [email protected]

UTAH

VA Salt Lake City Health Care System690 S. Valdez Dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84148(801) 588-5900Manager: Quinn [email protected]

VIRGINIA

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital9201 Woodbury Rd.Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060(703) 805-5203Manager: Roxannamaria [email protected]

Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center1201 Broad Rock Blvd. Richmond, VA 23249(804) 675-6639 fax: (804) 675-5979Manager: Wayne [email protected]

Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth853 Fisher Dr. Bldg 287Portsmouth, VA 23708(757) 953-6889 fax: (757) 953-7174 Manager: Jill [email protected]

WASHINGTON

Madigan Army Medical Center9999 Wilson Ave. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433(253) 964-9283 fax: (253) 968-3619Manager: Jodi [email protected]

VA Puget Sound Healthcare System1660 South Columbian WaySeattle, WA 98108(206) 768-5353 fax: (206) 277-1415Manager: Stephanie [email protected]

GERMANY

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center I & IICMR 402 Box 669APO, AE 09180011-49-6371-6183311fax: 011-49-6371-866679Manager: Vivian [email protected]

UNITED KINGDOM

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Mindelsohn WayQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirmingham B15 2TH0121-472-6217 fax: 0121-4130-6897Manager: Patrick Hogan [email protected]

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


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For twenty-five years, the Fisher House program has provided a “home away from

home” for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA

medical centers. These homes provide free temporary lodging to military and

veterans’ families so they can be close to their loved one during a medical crisis,

allowing them to focus on what’s important — the healing process.

Due to the generosity of people like you, Fisher House Foundation is able to

build and help support the operation of more than 60 existing homes, the core

of our mission. Additionally, our Hero Miles program assists with travel needs,

and our scholarship program offers educational opportunities to military children

and spouses.

With your help, we will continue to meet the needs of our military community today,

and long into the future. Show your love by making a donation to Fisher House.

To learn more, please visit www.fisherhouse.org or call (888) 294-8560.

Because we our heroes.

Fisher House Foundation CFC Code: 11453

©2014 Fisher House FoundationCreative services donated by ds+f, Washington, DC www.dsfriends.com | Photo courtesy of Craig Orsini. www.orsinistudio.com

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

Documents

The Patriot Magazine Fall 2014