Every day we make a difference in the life of a military family. Every day we help ensure that no wounded warrior is without support during the...
Every day we make a difference in the life of a military family. Every day we help ensure that no wounded warrior is without support during the most difficult time in their life. And every day we give thanks for their sacrifices.
At Fisher House Foundation, we provide a "home away from home" for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis. There are currently 61 Fisher Houses throughout the country and in Europe.
No service member should go through an injury or illness alone – and Fisher House makes it possible for loved ones to be by their side during the recovery process.
“In the beginning, every day I didn’t want to get out of bed,” said SFC Chris Edwards, US Army. “The Fisher House makes it easier because you have your family with you…It’s nice having 10 moms hanging out to help.”
Located just steps away from the hospital, each Fisher House provides up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and bathrooms. Each home features a common kitchen, laundry facilities, dining and living rooms to provide communal support for our families. Fisher House alleviates the financial burden, allowing families to focus on what’s really important – the care of their loved one.
“Fisher House took care of me,” said Sgt. Ryan O’Malley, US Army. “Families are going through such horrible times and to not have to worry about anything was great.”
For Elaine Tomlin, she was able to care for her sister while she recovered at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. “I felt so at ease when I got back to the Fisher House after a day at the hospital. It was nice to get back into a routine and lay my head down each night.”
All three stayed at a different Fisher House, their illnesses and stories different, but their mission was the same: to support their family.
Since the program began, Fisher House has served over 180,000 families and provided over 5 million nights of lodging.
It is a privilege to honor the sacrifices of active duty and Veteran military members and their families. To find out about Fisher House’s other program, or how you can help make a difference, visit www.fisherhouse.org.
This is a guest blog post written by Ashley Estill of the Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House is one of 8 highlighted Military Service Organizations for the 3rd annual Warrior Open Golf Tournament hosted by the Bush Center.
