Archived News

On behalf of the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, Jim Thompson presented a $2, 000 donation of gift cards to Fisher House Charleston. This donation will help with purchases of various supplies and food for the families staying at the Fisher House while their Veteran receives medical care at our VA. Thank you Isle of Palms Exchange Club !

Members of the Isle of Palms Exchange Club have been serving our community since 1948. Their mission is to provide opportunities for their members to work together in fellowship to make our community a better place to live through our 4 programs of service- Americanism, Community, Youth and the Prevention of Child Abuse.

Inaugural Hickory Shaft Golf Tournament
Friday, June 4, 2021
The Aero Club, Myrtle Beach

Last week, thanks to a SC State Elks Association grant, Summerville Elks Lodge 2719 was able to convert a $2, 000 donation to Walmart gift cards for our Fisher House. This will help with their supplies and food for the families staying there with their Veteran receives medical care at our VA. Thank you Summerville Elks !

Friends of Fisher House Charleston are proud of the Charleston Preservation Society Carolopolis Award presented last night for our renovation of the historic carriage house.

A commitment made in 2017 and supported by our many donors. Progress over those years is documented on our website www.friendsofosherhousecharleston.org

Knights of Columbus Council 6250 make a generous $600 donation to FoFHC with Assistant Manager Chris Jackson accepting

Knights of Columbus Council 6250 make a generous $600 donation to FoFHC with Assistant Manager Chris Jackson accepting

#TBT to last Thursday and an incredible Thanksgiving meal at our Fisher House served by our Fisher House team members - Jamie Logan, Percy Jones and Chris Jackson. Full turkey dinners with all sides purchased from South Roots BBQ and three turkeys donated from Rodney Scott’s BBQ. The families ate well on Thanksgiving and were able to take to-go plates to their loves one in the hospitals.

Michelle Whitbeck of the East Cooper Breakfast Rotary Foundation presents Assistant House Manager Chris Jackson the $5000 donation from the November Flags for Heroes display at Patriots Point. Friends of Fisher House Charleston is proud and thankful to benefit from this annual event.

The ladies of the South Windermere Garden Club took advantage of the newly renovated Carriage House to prepare the tree and other decorations for the house. Thankyou ladies !

#TBT to last Thursday and an incredible Thanksgiving meal at our Fisher House served by our Fisher House team members - Jamie Logan, Percy Jones and Chris Jackson. Full turkey dinners with all sides purchased from South Roots BBQ and three turkeys donated from Rodney Scott’s BBQ. The families ate well on Thanksgiving and were able to take to-go plates to their loves one in the hospitals.

Post & Courier Military Editor Tom Novelly continues to show support to Fisher House Charleston by featuring our President in his weekly newsletter. Our BOD has many veterans and we constantly look for ways to support.

Yesterday our Fisher House celebrated Veterans Day !

A special Thank You to Ms. Kara Karnes 7th grade class at Palmetto Christian Academy who donated the handmade greeting cards and flags. The families staying out our Fisher House were able to take the cards to their loved ones who are receiving care at our VA and the flags were used to decorate the walkway of the Fisher House.

The 5th straight year we have been blessed and supported...Thank you Seabrook Island

Friends of Fisher House Charleston would like to thank and point out that our much appreciated 2019 donation increases Community and individual to more than $145, 000 since 2014 ! ! What a generous community ! !

At Fisher House we are using the Clorox Total 360 to sanitize rooms between guest stays. This product is EPA-approved to kill COVID-19.

We are focused on keeping everyone safe and healthy !

Fisher House Charleston will be handing out candy at the front gate from 5-6 PM on Saturday

Our first volunteers returned Monday......Jim & Steph Parker as well as David Williams working with Percy. So great to have them back.......more posts to come as the week goes on.

Finally, the Volunteers will be returning on Monday 26 October. They have been missed by guests and staff alike since March.

Friends of Fisher House Charleston are honored to be involved in the November 10-16 East Cooper Breakfast Rotary Club Flags for Heroes at Patriots Point. We are fortunate to be included again this year. Please review the attached press release to see how you can support our Veterans.

Jim Herzog President of Daniel Island Exchange Club presents a $2000 donation to FoFHC President Josh Strimple. We appreciate the continuous support from their annual Field of Honor campaign.

The VAMC has opened up visiting hours from 2 to 6 PM and as a result occupancy during the week has increased to 70%. Meanwhile all food service as previously mentioned relies heavily on plastic and paper products such as these on the counter.

Vicki and staff lower flag to half staff this AM........events 19 years ago today made Fisher House so critical to our veterans and their families

Our much needed storage space neat and orderly thanks to Percy........a man and his castle

Friends of Fisher House Charleston supports the Charleston VAMC Fisher House with donations that have funded major projects and everyday items for guests. The third-party non-profit is an important community partner.

Below is a photo of the recently renovated historical Carriage House on the Fisher House property - funded by Friends of Fisher House Charleston.

Read the full story: https: //www.charleston.va.gov/CHARLESTON/features/Community_Support_for_Fisher_House_Charleston.asp

Big thank you to Judy Hennis and the great folks at American Legion Auxiliary Unit 178, Murrells Inlet, for their donation of clothing items and toiletry items for Fisher House families. Often times guests arrive at our Fisher House unexpectedly without having time to pack a bag, these donations ensure that we have items available if needed. Such a big help !

We are supporting the Ralph H. Johnson VAMC Care Giver and Family Resource Center drive up fair Wednesday July 29th with information on our mission and a complimentary bottle of Hand Sanitizer. This event supports veterans, their families and caregivers. One more way your donations to us benefit our local veterans.

Fisher House Charleston Housekeeping staff members Percy Jones and Angelo Clark keep the house cleaned and sanitized while practicing all COVID-19 precautions. When a family arrives, they are provided with a personal kit including hand sanitizer, cup, notebook and blanket to assure that they remain safe and comfortable during their stay. These kits are provided by the donations of our supporters.

We are looking forward to working with the South Carolina Society, Children of the American Revolution

Even while COVID-19 has impacted VAMC routine medical support to our Veterans several have been admitted who also can have family visitations. As a result we have had a few families at Fisher House Charleston in late June and early July. As always, our families extoll the hospitality. Imagine if our volunteers were also present !

Since volunteering in early 2018, FoFHC Board Member Butler Derrick has been cooking his famous Sea Food Casserole every Thursday since. Many guests have requested the recipe........ It will also be placed in the JOURNAL section of our webpage www.friendsoffisherhousecharleston.org with the July update. It also can be requested by e-mailing contact@friendsoffosherhousecharleston.org

Fisher House Charleston Assistant Manager Chris Jackson and Head Custodian Percy Jones open the individual hand sanitizers to be presented to every guest on arrival as the house reopens under COVID-19 guidelines. This is one of the many ways your donations allow us to serve our veterans being treated at Ralph H. Johnson VAMC. THANK YOU ! ! . Please explore our website www.friendsoffisherhousecharleston.org for more details and ways to support us.

closure, Vicki has been given permission to re-open the house. But there are New Rules. One of which is how how food is stored and shared that require new forms of kitchen supplies.....individual packets are the standard.......examples are sugar, Splenda, creamer, Bounty Towels, Lysol/Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer, disposal coffee cups w/ lids. Standby for more details as we navigate this new world and learn of additional ground rules and the impact on our mission and your support.

We are so grateful to Charleston Magazine and Grand Strand Magazine for this generous campaign supporting Ralph H Johnson VAMC Friends Fisher House Charleston ........great time get or renew your subscription. Subscription revenues resulted in a donation of $400.

We said farewell today to the Commander of Joint Base Charleston Col TA Adams. Practiced social distancing He found many ways to support us and will be missed. Good luck in the Pentagon

June 28 – July 11, 2020 Field of Honor® located in the lawn across from 130 River Landing Drive, Daniel Island, SC 29492

The Exchange Club of Daniel Island will transform a lawn by River Landing Drive to a sea of red, white and blue as members join with volunteers in posting over 650 United States Flags to honor those who through the actions have added honor to the Stars & Stripes.

The Exchange Club of Daniel Island hosts the 5th annual event to honor heroes who have earned our gratitude. Flags are sponsored to pay tribute to individuals, and sponsors receive the flags to present to their heroes, fly at home to recognize them or keep a treasured memento of the event. For $25 per flag you can honor individuals who have become heroes in your life.

Those who have experienced a Field of Honor® display know to expect a touching scene of flags flying to celebrate our heroes. Those who are first time visitors will find that the display must be experienced to be fully appreciated. There is no charge to visit the Field of Honor® display. Please come and bring your family & friends.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to Friends of Fisher House Charleston.

Friends of Fisher House Charleston provides support through the COVID-19 Pandemic by keeping the pantry and refrigerator stocked to support Fisher House residents. As the V.A. ramps up their staffing to prepare for this crisis, we will take care of the clinicians, just as we take care of the caregivers.

Thank you for all that came out for a great event at Top Golf ! We appreciate your support.

An honor to show General Ham our fantastic Fisher House ! Thank you for sharing our vision !

We began to repair and renovate the century-old Carriage House located behind Fisher House Charleston. When the House was built, we made this commitment to the Community and the V.A. It is our honor to restore this old classic, which will also provide much-needed storage.

Santa, Mrs. Clause and the City of Charleston Police Department stand with Fisher House families during the holidays.

“We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year Holiday, spending time with family and friends. Thank you to all the many supporters of Friends of Fisher House Charleston who ensure that our Fisher House can be a Home-Away-From-Home to Military and Veterans caregivers as they receive medical treatment at the Ralph H. Johnson V. A. Medical Center.”

Thank you to Charlie James and his listeners at WTMA for supporting Fisher House Charleston with an annual radiation on 6 December !

American Legion Post 205 from Bluffton held a golf tournament this fall that raised funds for Friends of Fisher House Charleston. Thank you for your support, and for sharing our vision ! !

Serving Those Who Serve, a nonprofit that supports Fisher House Charleston, raised $13, 000 to help with our mission ! We have had over 1, 500 families at the House since it opened. We couldn't do this without the strong support of our community ! Thank you to all on the STWS Committee ! ! !

Thank you Seabrook Island Club ! Your generous donation keeps the kitchen full and ensures that our families are supplied with whatever they need to feel AT HOME ! We couldn’t do this without supporters like you !

Veteran’s Day parade ! ! Thank you Charleston and the V. A. for putting on such a great event ! !

We thank Steel City Pizza for their donation to Friends of Fisher House Charleston ! We will keep the kitchen fully stocked for several weeks due to their generosity !

Serving Those Who Serve held a sold-out Golf Tournament and Dinner yesterday to benefit Friends of Fisher House Charleston and Special Warfare Warrior Foundation. Thank you to all who helped make it a tremendous success ! ! !

Thank you American Legion Post 147 James Island ! They hosted their 14th Invitational Cookoff to raise funds for Friends of Fisher House Charleston. We appreciate your support !

Show your Clemson Colors AND support Fisher House Charleston ! Purchase a Military Appreciate 2019 Duty, Honor and Country tee-shirt. A portion of the proceeds will support Military and Veteran Families/Caregivers staying at Fisher House Charleston. Purchase one here !

Joanne Vaught is the wife of a Veteran receiving care at our VA. During her husband's treatment, she has stayed at our Charleston VAMC Fisher House four times and says the support of staff and other Fisher House guests, along with the beautiful accommodations, help give her strength during what can be difficult days at the hospital.

Wine, Women and Wisdom: Thank you to a wonderful team of volunteers, sponsors and supporters who put together an amazing event on Saturday ! ! We couldn't do it without your help! Photo's by Vision Balm.

Friends of Fisher House Charleston was on the radio ! Thank you Charlie James, WTMA, for helping us spread the word.

Special thanks to the new Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum Executive Director Larry Murray for visiting our Fisher House. He, along with Robert Clark- Marketing, Sales and Public Relations Director, Jessica Steinberg- Executive Assistant/Grants Coordinator, and Allison Hunt- Executive Director USS Yorktown Foundation, toured our Fisher House and learned how we support our Veterans and families. Kent Hutchinson, Friends of Fisher House Charleston Board of Directors was also on hand to explain how FOFHC supports the needs of our house. #FisherHouseFridays

Thank you East Cooper Outboard Beneficent Group for your donation. We couldn’t do it without our supportive community !

Friends of Fisher House Charleston partnered with Kendra Scott Jewelers from 2-4PM on Sunday, July 14th for Sips, Sweets and Shopping. Kendra Scott Jewelers donated 20% of their sales to our non-profit ! !

General Harper and Bob Crawford orchestrated a German dinner for guests of Fisher House Charleson Tonight. Delicious ! ! !

Thank you Daniel Island Exchange Club for your support of Fisher House Charleston.

American Legion Post 147 Honor Guard donated $1, 000 to Friends of Fisher House Charleston today in memory of Commander Tom Conrey, USN, their friend and colleague. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Tom. Your Shipmates from the Honor Guard are thinking of you.

Fisher House Charleston welcomed families from the Myrtle Beach area at the Pelicans Game on 14 June.

Thank you Charleston Battery, Akima, Kendra Scott and all our volunteers (especially the Sea Cadets !) for coming out tonight in support of Friends of Fisher House Charleston ! ! We couldn’t do our mission without the support of our community !

Over fifty hardworking volunteers are manning the concession booths at U.S. Women's Open, in support of Friends of Fisher House ! If you see one, make sure you thank them for their efforts ! Our non-profit will be "paid"for their time ! So grateful ! !

Thank you Grand Strand Community for your support ! Another very successful Golf Tournament. Proceeds directly support Fisher House Charleston !

Josh Hart and his traveling buddy Louie graced Military and Veterans in Charleston with a visit. He teamed with North Ridge Cycles to put on a Ride for the Warriors that generated donations for Friends of Fisher House Charleston. THANK YOU Josh and Louis and North Ridge Cycles and all those that came out for the ride !

We appreciate the support of Joint Base Charleston !

City of Charleston Police support Fisher House Charleston

Thank you VA and Charleston Police for watching over us, keeping us safe. We are so thankful for our strong community !

Fisher House Charleston approaches their 1000th Guest

Since we opened just over a year ago, we have maintained our House at 70% occupancy or more ! Clearly, we needed a Fisher House in Charleston ! Stay tuned, because we will go over the 1000th Guest really soon ! ! !

Fisher House Foundation holds Annual Conference

Fisher House Foundation held their annual conference this month. House Managers and their community support groups met to share experiences and discover new ways to support our House. We have returned with great energy and some new ideas !

FH Charleston in the 2019 Festival of Houses and Gardens !

Historic Charleston included Fisher House Charleston in their 2019 Festival of Houses and Gardens ! Hundreds of visitors were able to see first hand how our Military, Veterans and their Caregivers are supported by a loving community !

Charleston Day School visits Fisher House Charleston

Thank you Charleston Day School for supporting Fisher House Charleston as part of your Mission Possible Day ! Nice to have supportive neighbors !

Marrington Elementary School donates to Fisher House Charleston

Thank you Marrington Elementary School for your support of Fisher House Charleston !

SC Stingrays features the Fisher House Charleston

Thank you to the South Carolina Stingrays for featuring us on 16 March ! This type of community involvement really helps us help our Military Veterans and their caregivers !

The Fisher House Charleston Outreach Committee

Instrumental to our success is having a strong core team to help us get the word out to Military Veterans and their families. We formed the Outreach Committee to do just that. Thank you to General Fedder, Colonel Bauer and Ms. Weiss for being part of the team. If you are part of a group or organization and you would like us to come present about Fisher House Charleston, please message us. Over 900 families served so far ! Help us spread the word !

LTGEN (Ret) Patricia E. McQuistion visits the House

LTGEN (Ret) Patricia E. McQuistion, Vice President of the Association of the U. S. Army visited Fisher House Charleston earlier this month to learn how we take care of our Military, Veterans and their families.

Old St. Andrews Parish Church is a strong supporter of the House

Old St. Andrews Parish Church is a strong supporter of Fisher House Charleston, providing manpower, donations and empathy to support our Veterans and their families !

American Legion Post 147 supports the Fisher House

We have always enjoyed tremendous support from the American Legion. Thank you to Post 147 for their generous gift !

Vicki, our House Manager, hiding out making desserts

As House Manager, Vicki is responsible for the running of Fisher House Charleston - everything from check-in to maintenance to outreach ! Every once in a while she escapes the endless demands for her time by hiding out in the kitchen and making yummy desserts for our guests ! Thanks Vicki !

Chris Ward serves as a Judge for the American Legion Oratorical's

Friends of Fisher House Charleston Executive Director Chris Ward served as a Judge for the American Legion Oratorical's. So many talented young people gathered together; inspiring !

Our families love the "Chex Mix Ladies"

Our families love the "Chex Mix Ladies"❤ Thanks Carol and Penny for your continued support ! !

Carolina One supports the Fisher House

Special thanks to the great folks at Carolina One Real Estate for their wonderful donations for families staying at Fisher House Charleston.

60 Bull Cafe is a great supporter of Fisher House

Torrey Glass, the Proprietor of 60 Bull Cafe, has made a commitment to be part of the Fisher House Charleston support team ! When guests are looking for a meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner), they can always find a smiling and welcoming face, delicious local food and a 10% discount at 60 Bull Cafe. We are so lucky to located near this charming neighborhood restaurant ! Visit 60 Bull's Website

Johnny Johnson, Vietnam Veteran cooks ribs for Fisher House

Thank you to Johnny Johnson, Vietnam Veteran and volunteer at Fisher House Charleston. Tonight’s dinner for the families staying with us? Ribs right off the grill !

Trident Hospital's Lowcountry Transitions Behavioral Health

Thank you Trident Hospital's Lowcountry Transitions Behavioral Health for your good humor, contagious smiles.... and great cooking ! We couldn't do it without our wonderful volunteers !

W. Larry Dandridge recently spoke at the Fort Mill, SC Rotary.

The Friends of Fisher House Charleston Good Will Ambassador, W. Larry Dandridge recently spoke at the Fort Mill, SC Rotary Lunch Club. US Army Aviation Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Dandridge talked about the VA Medical System, Fisher House Charleston, the soon-to-be Fisher House Columbia, the US Helicopter War in Vietnam, and the award winning military history and action book that Larry wrote to raise funds for Fisher House Charleston. Larry’s book, Blades of Thunder (Book One)and his speeches have raised more than $60, 000.00 for Fisher House Charleston. To schedule Larry for a speaking engagement and book signing in support of the Friends of Fisher House Charleston, call Larry at his office at 843-573-9657or cell phone 843-276-7164or email him at LDandridge@earthlink.net. Friends of Fisher House Charleston THANKS LTC Dandridge for his support !

Guinot Institut Mount Pleasant supports the House

Thank you Guinot Institut Mount Pleasant for your strong support of Fisher House Charleston !

Generous Support from Charleston Area Men's Interclub

Thank you Charleston Area Men’s Interclub Golf Association for your generous support !

Welcome our New Volunteers Anne and John

Retired Army Nurse Colonel Anne and her husband, Dr. John show up for their first volunteer shift at the Fisher House Charleston, ready to work !

Happy Birthday Ralph H. Johnson !

Today is a special day at our medical center - today we celebrate what would have been PFC Ralph H. Johnson's 70th birthday. Happy Birthday Ralph and thank you for letting us be a part of carrying on your legacy of service, courage, selflessness and sacrifice.

To read more about Ralph's story - link over to his Medal of Honor page: http: //www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/3318/johnson-ralph-h.php

Barbara George created this beautiful centerpiece

Volunteer Barbara George created this patriotic centerpiece for Fisher House Charleston entryway. Thank you Barbara ! ! ! !

How It All Began

By Pauline Trost

In the mid-1970's, as I came onto the grounds of the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda for a clinic visit, I saw a helicopter land at the medical center heliport. A sailor, his wife and two children came down the steps with their luggage. I wondered where they would stay. Living in the D. C. area, I knew that hotels and motels in the Bethesda area were expensive and likely beyond the means of couples such as this one. These thoughts remained on my mind for years.

When my husband became the Chief of Naval Operations in 1986, I thought this might be a good time to pursue my dream of providing affordable temporary housing for families of those facing a medical crisis at Bethesda. I spoke with Mrs. Iris Reiman, then president of the Washington area Naval Officers Wives Club, and asked her if she would explore how members felt about taking on such a project. She brought up the subject at next meeting and reported agreement on planning the concept. We originally thought about finding an unused or underused building on the medical center grounds which could be converted into a place for people to stay on a temporary basis.

In early 1990, my husband received a call from our friend, Zachary Fisher, who had provided generous assistance to families of service personnel beset by tragedy. Zachary indicated that he was prepared to expand his support and asked my husband for thoughts on projects he might undertake which would benefit personnel of all military services. Among other ideas, my husband mentioned my dream. Zachary was taken by the concept and we discussed it further. He said, "I'm a builder, I have my own architect, we can do this."Things moved rapidly thereafter, bureaucratic hurdles were overcome, a site was identified for the first house, and in 1991, the first Fisher House opened with President and Mrs. Bush joining the Fishers and us at the dedication ceremony. The dream had come true.

Zachary Fisher told me later it was the most satisfying thing he'd ever done. In a letter to my husband and me in January, 1992, commenting on a thank-you letter from a wife who had stayed at Fisher House I at Bethesda, he wrote: "The attached letter says it all. I knew how important the Fisher Houses would be - but I never imagined how many lives would be changed !" Zachary and Elizabeth were true American patriots.

The Young AFCEA members cooked a meal for the House

'Tis the season....for giving back! The Young AFCENS had a wonderful time cooking for our Veterans and their families at the Charleston Fisher House tonight ! With Jennifer Greenwell, Kristin McCall Smith, Laura Marion and Kelly McCormack.

Seabrook Island Veteran's Day golf outing donation

Third year we are the beneficiaries of the Seabrook Island Veteran's Day golf outing for Ralph Johnson VAMC and Fisher House Charleston. Thanks to chairman Alan Armstrong for all his continuing efforts on behalf of veterans

Running the Kiawah Marathon for Fisher House

Great support by the Strimple/Zipperer team

Percy is decorating for the Holidays

Percy[aka] Superman left his cape in the phone booth for this short climb.......drive by and enjoy all of Vicki's decorations

Happy Birthday Percy !

When families stay at Fisher House Charleston they all remark that the house looks spotless........but then they find out that the man that make it so is that really friendly guy Percy who every now and then will admit to his alter ego.......SUPERMAN he even changes with a cell phone ! !

Veteran's Day Program at the Rotary Club of Charleston

Vicki Johnson visited the Rotary Club of Charleston for their Veteran's Day Program.

Geocent presents donation check from their 2018 Campaign

Valerie Warnock of Geocent presents donation check from their 2018 campaign for Fisher House Charleston. Great support from this North Charleston firm.

Vicki shows Mayor Tecklenberg the new outdoor kitchen donated by the USCG Chief Petty Officer's Association of the Low Country

Charlie James and 1250 WTMA Live Broadcast from the House

Charlie James of 12150 WTMA broadcasted live from the Fisher House. Thank you Charlie for your support !

VA Medical Center cooks meal at the Fisher House

On November 8, 2018 The VA Medical Center's Administrative Executive Council took some extra time out of their evening to prepare dinner for the guests at the Fisher House. Tacos and Chili were on the menu ! YUM !

USN Veteran Paul Goldberg makes a donation

So today we visited the Charlie James show on WTMA. He will be broadcasting from the house from 6 to 10 AM on Friday November 9. During our on the air discussions we discussed the type of donations that we could use for our guests and how the Fisher House Charleston Radiothon would be structured. USN Veteran Paul Goldberg heard the show and immediately stopped by to get more information from Vicki. A short time late he was back from COSTCO. Thank you Paul..you're #1 and thank you WTMA for what promises to be a very successful campaign supporting our veterans and their families.

SC Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging presents donation

Mr Darryl Broome, Director South Carolina Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging presents donation that will provide our guests transportation between the house and VAMC. A most generous and needed source of funds ! (L-R) Kent Hutchinson, VAMC Director Scott Isaacks, Mr Broome, Ken Burton

Masonic Lodge No.400 provided dinner for the families

Our web master Phil Reichner www.pandadigitalagency.comand members of Fellowship Masonic Lodge #400 cooked dinner Wednesday night for our guests. Reported best ever ! Pictured left to right: Tommy Blackwood, Herb Franklin, Al Couch, Mel Wagner, Jim Rowan II, James Hartnett, Phil Reichner, Larry Anderson, Gage Novaria.

Daniel Island Exchange Club visits the Fisher House

On Wednesday October 10 the Daniel Island Exchange Club visited and toured the beautiful new Fisher House of Charleston residence. Pictured left to right are Jim Herzog, Joe Delpino, Sandy Dominick, Alexandra Lanza and Pam Delpino. The busts are of Elizabeth and Zachary Fisher, the original founders of Fisher House. We are proud to support Fisher House.

Masonic Lodge No.234 of Summerville makes a donation

Fisher House Charleston Managers receive a very generous $1500 donation from Summerville Masonic Lodge #234. [L-R] Chris Jackson, Worshipful Master James Harmon, Vicki Johnson and Master Mason Tony Lowder. We are grateful for this support to our veterans and their families.

German Friendly Society supports the Fisher House

German Friendly Society President Hugh Tant presents Vicki a very generous $500 donation........thanks for supporting our veterans and their families.

The Washington Light Infantry visits the Fisher House

Had a great visit from Washington Light Infantry[WLI] members exploring options to support Fisher House Charleston. Seated Dr W. Bonner Thomason WLI Battalion Surgeon, Standing [L-R] Colonel Carl B. Beckmann WLI Board of Officers Vice Chairman, LTC Dale Theilling WLI Executive Officer, Major General James E. Livingston Medal of Honor Recipient and Major General Henry I Siegling WLI Commander

Would you like to cook dinner for the Fisher House?

Would you like to cook dinner for the residents of the Fisher House? By clinking the link below, you will be redirected to the Meal Train for Fisher House Charleston.

James Island Yacht Club Cooks Dinner at the House

Charlie Aimar, Mary Anne Lilienthal Aimar and Bill McDaniel from the James Island Yacht Club cooked dinner for the residence of the Fisher House.

Crowfield Men's Golf Association supports Fisher House

Crowfield Men's Golf Association presents Fisher House Charleston's House Manager Vicki Johnson a $600 check from last Saturday's event. Did we mention we also have great volunteers from Crowfield? Thanks to all who support our veterans.

Parris Island Thrift Shop presents a donation

Joann Bright of the Parris Island Thrift Shop traveled to Charleston today to present this $2000 donation. We are very grateful for this generous support to our veterans

James Island Yacht Club

James Island Yacht Club presented more donations from their events supporting Fisher House Charleston.......almost $40, 000 to date.

Field of Honor

Thanks to the Exchange Club Daniel Island

American Legion Auxiliary South Carolina presents a donation

Judy Hennis President of American Legion Auxiliary South Carolina presents a donation from her year long project supporting Fisher House Charleston. A huge and generous contribution. We are thankful for this support to our veterans.

Vicki Johnson about the RiverDogs

More from the RiverDogs visit to Fisher House

Charlie and the Riverdogs players were ready to serve our Veterans and their families at Fisher House Charleston today - great food and fun ! Join us for Fisher House Charleston Night at The Joe this evening.

Fisher House Charleston guest Johnnie Hicks

Fisher House Charleston guest Johnnie Hicks said, “If there was anything better than this, God would have to bring it.” To Mr. Hicks and all of our Fisher House families, it is an honor to serve you !

RiverDogs host the Harleston Village neighbors

Charleston River Dogs host the Harleston Village neighbors for a pre-game lunch.

RiverDogs hosted an Open House at The Fisher House

For Day Four of Yankees #HOPEWeek Pitchers JP Sears, Dalton Lehnen, Outfielder Steven Sensley, and RiverDogs staff served food and hosted an Open House at The Fisher House Charleston with current residents and active and veteran military members.

United Daughters of the Confederacy

United Daughters of Confederacy C Irvine Walker Chapter #190 present a donation to President Josh Strimple......[l-r]Mary Lee Rogers, Benita Kinlaw, Linda Sargent, Josh, Carolyn Arnold, Barbara Simmons, Kimberlee Lisicki and Martha Lisicki.

We appreciate your support ! !

Great day at Wescott, thanks to the Low Country CPOA

Thank you to all who participated in the Low Country CPOA Golf Tournament

Memorial Day Program at the Ralph H. Johnson VMAC

President Josh Strimple keynotes the Memorial Day Program at the Ralph H Johnson VAMC

West Ashley Outboard Motor Club make a generous donation

West Ashley Outboard Motor Club President Mickey Thompson and Bruce Saxman present a Most Generous donation at their May meeting last night.......THX for your support !

Knights of Columbus Assembly 3272 visit the House

Knights from KofC Assembly 3272 Georgetown, SC personally delivered their generous donation and toured the house. From left to right: Joe Gabriel, Charles Sacavage, Bob Hilken and Jim Mc Mahon pose with Zack and Elizabeth

Baldwin & Associates visit the Fisher House

Our Friends at Baldwin & Associates CPA who maintain our financial and tax records made a visit Friday to see what they have been supporting since 2013. From right to left Dawn Goehring, Scott Schlau, Alys Anne Dennis and Dawn's father Lou.

Friends of Fisher House - Grand Strand Golf Tournament 2018

I was honored this rainy morning to welcome a packed room of golfers / Veterans to the Friends Of Fisher House Charleston/Grand Strand Golf Tournament at Whispering Pines Golf Course ! Thank you to Fred Kane, who organized this incredible fundraising event for Fisher House Charleston, which has served over 75, 000 families of Veterans from 22 coastal counties receiving medical care in Charleston ! Quote of the morning: “There is no charge for Veterans and their families at Fisher House because they have already paid the price !” God bless Fred Kane and Grand Strand supporters of Fisher House ! God bless America’s Veterans !

PS: Happy 60th Birthday, Fred Kane ! ! !

Fisher House Charelston at Joint Base Charleston

Thanks to everyone for visiting our table at Joint Base Charleston Air Show. Corn hole boards and prizes were very popular with the kids.

Memorial Day Ceremony

Carolina One Realty presents $1000 donation

Carolina One Realty presents $1000 donation to BOD Member Bob Crawford. A great big Thank you to L-R Andie Weathers, Lina Costanzo, Paige Pollock, Charlie Aikman, Jean Acsell, [Bob], Tom Tillery Jackie Parker and Stuart DeVault

Members of the USS Ralph E. Johnson volunteer

USS Ralph H Johnson Gunnery Officer LT jg Gonzalez and pre- commissioning shipmates volunteered at Fisher House today.....great young men and women

Palmetto Military Support Group provided catered meal

Palmetto Military Support Group provided catered evening meal from 60 Bull Cafe and toured the house before having a social at 60 Bull Cafe.......PMSG Board Member Col Judi Hughes USAF ret chats with House Manager Vicki Johnson and Kent

Fisher House Charleston gives back to service members, veterans

BEAUFORT, SC, UNITED STATES
02.15.2018
Story by Cpl. Ashley Phillips
Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

The Fisher House Charleston is a resource available to service members, veterans, and their families to utilize while they’re receiving medical treatment at the Ralph H. Johnson Veteran Affairs Medical Center which serves nearly 75, 000 veterans and service members from Myrtle Beach, S.C. to Savannah, Ga.

“We needed a Fisher House in Charleston for a very long time, ” said Vicki Johnson, the Fisher House manager. “Our medical center serves areas that are two or two and a half hours away. Hotels in Charleston are expensive and a lot of our veterans can’t afford hotels especially if they are staying in the hospital for long periods of time.”

According to Johnson, the community came together to raise money to purchase the land that the Fisher House now sits on.

“They raised $4 million to purchase this property and donate it to the VA, ” said Johnson. “We then partnered with the Fisher House Foundation who came in and built and furnished the house.”

The Fisher House has 16 suits available to families as well as a taxi service, and a fully stocked kitchen. The VA runs the house but the Friends of the Fisher House raise money to provide the extra amenities at the house. They also provide a taxi service to and from the medical center.

“I have volunteers who will go pick up the groceries, prepare meals, and do all of the special things we like to do here for the service members, ” said Johnson. “We really try to take care of not only the lodging, but any other need they might have so they can focus on getting better and going home. I think it’s absolutely important for the veterans who are receiving care to have their family members with them.”

According to the Fisher House website, “Family is the best medicine”, and states that the proximity of family to an individual receiving medical care not only speeds up recovery, but also reduces the likelyhood of readmission.

“For some of these couples who come here they have been together for many years and it would be the first time they are ever apart, ” said Johnson. “When they travel from so far away it is important to have their loved one here and know that they are being taken care of at the Fisher House. At times even for the families it is a comfort to have the other families here who understand what they are going through.”

For one couple, Danny and Alice Turner who have been married for nearly 29 years, the importance of being able to be together at the Fisher House has been invaluable.

“We didn’t know what we were going to do because we have to be here for seven weeks, ” said Alice. “We called the Fisher House and they told us they had a place for us and meals were prepared for us. Ever since we got here it has been so amazing. All of the things we thought we would have to worry about have been taken care of.”

The couple travels over two hours on the weekends to stay at the Fisher House while receiving care at the medical center. After their first weekend at the house they described how they were actually looking forward to returning to the Fisher House.

“I am 67 years old and I can tell you that this is the nicest place I have ever stayed in my entire life, ” said Danny. “Alice and I have been married for coming up on 29 years now and I can say it’s been a big comfort to have her here. I am so thankful for her and for us to be able to stay at the Fisher House.”

Local VFW, Cracker Barrel donate to Fisher House
By:By Jenna-Ley Harrison jharrison@journalscene.comMar 5, 2018 Updated Mar 7, 2018

When Milinda Anderson learned of a way to help the newly-established Fisher House in Charleston, a home-away-from-home for families of sick veterans, she jumped at the opportunity.

Her mind immediately flooded with memories of her grandpa, a World War II Army veteran.

The retail manager of the Cracker Barrel store in Summerville, Anderson was contacted last month by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary 3433 in Ladson about donating hand-painted rocking chairs for the Fisher House front porch.

"When they said 'the Fisher House,' that was all they had to say," Anderson said.

The home is the first of its kind in the state, though 76 others exist across the country, and is used to house sick veterans' families, or the vets themselves if need be, according to Vicki Johnson, house manager and 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force. It's also the first Fisher House located in a residential area.

Looking for a way to help the inaugural facility, VFW officials said they worked out the deal with the local eatery, only expecting to secure two or three chairs maximum. But six total chairs, each displaying a symbol of a separate military branch, now rest on the home's porch, giving visitors who lodge there a place for outdoor respite.

Since opening its doors on Jan. 10, the Fisher House has welcomed more than 60 veterans' families in need of a free place to stay while a loved one receives care at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, MUSC and any other hospitals in the Lowcountry and 22 total coastal counties, Johnson said. The home has 16 total suites and averages 10 to 11 families per night.

"If you ever see the Fisher House, then you'll know. It's not a house; it's a home, " said Beth Tuft, guard for the S.C. Auxiliary Department.

Without the lodging, many families who can't afford multiple nights in a hotel would have to sleep in their cars in parking lots, according to Johnson.

Summerville Mayor Wiley Johnson, also an Air Force veteran, praised Cracker Barrel's role.

"We're here to honor Cracker Barrel for being such a good citizen, and we're looking forward to having more and more, " he said of future town businesses.

Both Wiley Johnson and Vicki Johnson attended a special luncheon at the restaurant on Friday to honor Anderson, who couldn't help but tear up when VFW ladies presented her with a special plaque.

"We had no place to put our family up,"Anderson said about her grandpa's hospital stay in Charleston during the 1980s.

Also in attendance Friday, and proudly dressed in patriotic colors and symbols, were state leaders from The Military Order of the Cootie Auxiliary and several Ladson VFW Auxiliary members.

The Fisher House relies solely on community donations to operate, and Vicki Johnson said the local one has received financial support from thousands of organizations, many of them veteran-related.

For more information on volunteering or donating, call 843-805-8200; visit the website; or find Friends of Fisher House Charleston/Grand Strand on Facebook.

SOURCE: The Summerville Journal Scene; "'It's not a house; it's a home': Local VFW, Cracker Barrel donate to Fisher House". Follow this link to the original : 'It's not a house; it's a home': Local VFW, Cracker Barrel donate to Fisher House

Crews Chevrolet donates a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse

HUGE thank you to Friends of Fisher House Charleston and Crews Chevrolet for helping get a car donated to our Charleston Fisher House—a brand new 2018 Chevy Traverse !

“Crews Chevrolet could not have been kinder to us to help make this deal happen !” -Bob Crawford, Friends of Fisher House Charleston transportation chair.

For more information on how to donate to The Ralph H Johnson VAMC Fisher House call 843-805-8200.

Fisher House on WCSC CBS 5

Fisher House Charleston Manager - Vicki Johnson

An opportunity of a lifetime… that’s how I would describe my job as the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Fisher House Manager. After spending 20 years in the Air Force and moving to Charleston after retirement, I was hired to work at VA. I started in the Public Affairs office and then moved to Voluntary Service, before being selected as the first manager of Fisher House Charleston. It’s absolutely the best job I’ve ever had ! After deploying twice to Afghanistan and a trip to Iraq, I knew that when I retired I still wanted to serve in some capacity, and working at Fisher House allows me to do just that. Now I get to serve the families of the men and women who have served our country. The family members may not have worn a uniform but they still sacrificed as they supported the Servicemember, and this is my opportunity to thank and support them.

Our Fisher House is located in historical downtown Charleston at 150 Wentworth Street. It is the first three-story Fisher House and is also the first to be built in a residential community. We have 16 suites to accommodate families and a common kitchen, dining room and living room area. Families stay at Fisher House at no cost for as long as the Veteran is hospitalized. They are referred to us through the Veteran’s social worker.

As we all know, hotels in Charleston are expensive, especially if you need to stay several days or even weeks. If you add to that, the cost of food and other necessities, it can easily become overwhelming and add significant pressure to an already difficult situation. The Fisher House staff and volunteers are here to help alleviate some of the stress. Whether it’s coordinating with a social worker, helping with luggage, giving directions, preparing meals or baking cookies, the Fisher House team is ready to serve. We also have many wonderful partners in the community who donate to us so that we can provide the “little extras” that truly make it feel like home. Through the generosity of our donors, we have luggage racks, irons, ironing boards, hampers, clothes hangers and many other amenities in each guest’s room, not to mention a fully stocked pantry and refrigerator.

We opened the doors for our first families nearly two month ago on Jan. 10. Since then, over 60 families have stayed at Fisher House, some for only a night or two, others for nearly seven weeks. It provides families, who are undergoing similar situations, with the opportunity to mourn, bond, cope, heal, and grow together. The families are overwhelmed to have such a wonderful place to stay and so grateful to the Fisher Family and our community for their generosity in making this possible. …because a family’s love is good medicine.

SOURCE: Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center; "continuing my service, my mission, my VA." Follow this link to the original story continuing my service, my mission, my VA

AFCEAN makes a donation to Fisher House Charleston

Young AFCEAN's (The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association) continue to support Fisher Charleston. President Josh Strimple receives $4317 check from [L-R] Laura Dunham, Kristin Smith, Valerie Warnock, and Jennifer Greenwell. Thanks for all their fund raising efforts

Fisher House Charleston's Amenities

Fisher House Charleston recognizes the importance of the aid it provides our Veteran's Families. Embroidered robes and other amenities shares the pride in the House.

One of our first guests models monogrammed robe furnished to every room by your donations.

SC American Legion donates to Fisher House Charleston

SC American Legion Deputy Commander and Post 193 Chapin member Walt Richardson presents $500 check to Fisher House Charleston.

Palmetto Chapter of Women in Defense

Josh and Kent receive the latest donation from our great supporters from Palmetto Chapter Women in Defense [L-R] Valerie Warnock, Amanda Stewart, Kristin Smith, Kelly Russ and Maura Boselowitz. First presentation in our new house !

Old St. Andrews Parish Church donates $15, 000

Our Secretary Andy Francis with Parent's Cafe members of Old Saint Andrews Parish Church. This is only one of the many donations we have received from this great parish !

Ribbon Cutting at Fisher House Charleston

We were so excited to cut the ribbon today on our new Fisher House and we are even more excited to welcome our first families into the home soon. Thank you to Fisher House Foundation, The Fisher House Charleston, the many donors and the Charleston community for their support to make this Fisher House a reality !

Foundation poured for Charleston's Fisher House

Special thanks to the Seabrook Island Club for their donation of $7500 to our VA Medical Center and soon-to-open Fisher House Charleston. This golf tournament is an annual event with proceeds benefiting our Veterans and families. We are grateful for their spirit of giving and wonderful partnership as we care for our Nation’s Heroes. #HonoringVets

Look at all that lumber !

We just popped on by to check on things at the site and was greeted by one of the wonderful construction crew members beginning the framing of Fisher House Charleston. Andres says the building will be entirely framed within 6 weeks !

Women in Defense contribute to Fisher House Charleston

The Palmetto Chapter of Women in Defense [WID-PC] continue to support Fisher House Charleston. One of our earliest supporters, they have raised over $15, 000 !

Attending the 150 Wentworth St. $3048 check presentation from their most recent fund raisers are [Back row L-R] Amanda Stewart, Whitney Bridges, Maura Boselowitz and [Front row L-R] Kristin Smith and Rachel Link

Foundation poured for Charleston's Fisher House

As of late April 2017, the Fisher House Charleston property has been cleared and foundation is being poured. We can see progress since March’s update !

Look at all that lumber !

The Dennis J Becker American Legion Post 205 recently held a golf tournament for the benefit of Fisher House Charleston.

Courtney Peoples Post Commander presents a $750 check from the proceeds to Kent Hutchingson, Co-Chairman/Treasurer of Fisher House Charleston. Also visiting 150 Wentworth [l-r] are Adjutant Michael Miranda, past Post Commander Bob Sterling, and Second Vice Commander Davis Leite.

We are looking forward to their next tournament at Rose Hill on September 29, 2017

5th Annual Fiji Islander a great success

College of Charleston’s Phi Gamma Delta fraternity successfully raised and donated over $5000 to Fisher House Charleston from their 5th annual fund raiser.

This great support, of over $24, 000 to date, will continue as the house becomes operational later this year.

Present at the check presentation ceremony are Patrick Smith construction site supervisor, Fisher House Charleston Co-Chairman/Treasurer Kent Hutchinson and Phi Gam brothers, Charles Cross and Mike De Wolfe

Phi Gamma Delta supports Fisher House during Philanthropy Week

College of Charleston’s Phi Gamma Delta is excited to announce their 5th Annual Fiji Islander Philanthropy week will be April 3-7 ! And we are extremely honored that they have chosen to support Fisher House Charleston.