Wright-Patt Fisher Houses celebrate 26 years of serving patients and families Published May 29, 2020 By Leticia Hopkins, 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- May 26, marked 26 years since the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Fisher House I opened its doors to patients and families from all branches of the military and veterans who needed “a home away from home” while receiving active treatment at the Wright-Patterson Medical Center. Although the anniversary was mentioned on social media, Karen Healea, Wright-Patterson AFB Fisher House manager, said unfortunately, they had to hold off on their planned celebration due to the coronavirus. “We look forward to when we can all come together and celebrate the spirit of the Fisher Houses and all those it has opened its doors to for [the last] 26 years here at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base,” Healea added. When they’re able to hold the celebration, Healea said it will still recognize Fisher House volunteers, Broxson Award winner and Fisher House guests as they celebrate the amazing mission the Fisher Houses serve. According to the Fisher House page on the installation’s website, Fisher Houses are compassionate care facilities located within walking distance to the medical center on base. There are two Fisher Houses located on Wright-Patterson AFB: Fisher House I and Fisher House II. Initially, Fisher House I kicked off the mission to provide safe and comfortable housing to medical center patients and their families at no cost near the hospital. Fisher House II was added in 2011 to assist the mission by increasing availability. Over the years, the Fisher House has provided a temporary home to many guests and created opportunities for staff and guests to connect and share memories during their stays. Healea said she hopes their past, present and future guests feel cherished and know they are like extended family to the Fisher House staff. The Fisher House staff agreed that each guest has a unique story and that there are several memories that touch their hearts during their guests stay. Recently they shared one of those unique experiences with a guest, and it really warmed their hearts. Having immunocompromised patients staying at the Fisher Houses is not uncommon, but the coronavirus makes observing social distancing and preventive measures even more important for each patient’s safety and recovery. To show support and care for each other while still observing social distancing, their special guest taught the staff and other guests how to lovingly give hugs with a special hand gesture instead of the traditional hug. The Fisher House is still currently open during this pandemic to continue to serve patients and families who need a safe and comfortable place that allows them to stay together as patients receive treatment. “We have been blessed to keep our doors open and to continue serving our families at this time,” said Healea. The Fisher House staff has no intentions of stopping or slowing down the mission they work to support in the future. Healea added that they will continue to serve families in the coming years. She added that it has been an amazing journey and a blessing to be able to carry out the Fisher House mission of serving the men and women who have served the country over the years. For more information about eligibility or to make a reservation, call the Fisher House at 937-257-0855. The Fisher House is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the exception of federal holidays. Information about the Fisher Houses can also be found here: https://www.wpafb.af.mil/fisherhouse/ and https://fisherhouse.org/.