July 22, 2008

The Fisher House Program

The Fisher House program is a unique private-public partnership that supports America's military in their time of need. Because members of the military and their families are stationed worldwide and must often travel great distances for specialized medical care, Fisher House Foundation donates "comfort homes" built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. these homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times -- during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness, disease, or injury.

When my son was in the U.S. Air Force stationed in New Mexico, he had to have surgery which was performed at the Army base in El Paso, Texas. We live south of Dallas, so if you know anything about Texas, you know we were a long way from home. My husband and I were fortunate enough to get to stay at a Fisher House. It was like a big 2-story home and very, very nice. We stayed several days while our son was hospitalized. The charge was minimal (I think about $10/day, but don't remember for sure) and they even gave us a phone card to use. The people were wonderful. We had access to a full kitchen, washer/dryer, etc.

A number of new Fisher Houses are being built in the Dallas area. Our friend, Melissa over at the Compass Centre is coordinating an effort to make red/white/blue twin-size quilts for the beds at the houses.

The Wacky Pac Quilters are getting together this weekend for a retreat. One of our projects is to make a twin-size quilt for the Fisher House. We are each making blocks and will put them together this weekend.

Stay tuned for pictures!



6 comments:

Teresa said...

Sounds like a wonderful project for you club to take on. I will be watching for the pictures.

Kim West said...

We have a fisher house near us, my guild recently gave 10 quilts to ours. I love supporting various military charities, I have about 4 that I contribute to quilty wise.

Kathy said...

Thanks Teresa. We always try to do a couple of charity projects each year.

Kathy said...

Oh Kim, that is so wonderful that you contribute to them, but it is not really a surprise to me! That's just Kim.

Michelle said...

What a great thing you are doing. Being a military spouse, I know how much your gift will be appreciated! :)

swooze said...

I just learned about the Fisher House this year at the Mesquite Quilt Show. Sounds like a neat program and nice to hear from someone that has experienced their efforts.