Columbia Fisher House: One Year of Supporting Heroes

The Columbia Fisher House, now celebrating its inaugural anniversary, is a lifeline for Veterans and their families facing the challenges of medical treatment away from home.

Established by the Fisher House Foundation, renowned for its commitment to providing "a home away from home" for military and Veteran families, the Columbia Fisher House is a testament to the power of community and compassion. Serving as the 94th Fisher House across two continents, it offers complimentary lodging for families navigating the complexities of extended medical care. It provides a much-needed sanctuary amidst the uncertainty of hospital corridors.

Over the past year, the Columbia Fisher House has stood as a steadfast refuge for 132 families, offering accommodation for a collective total of 474 nights. Beyond mere numbers, these statistics underscore the profound impact of the Columbia Fisher House - a haven where worries are momentarily eased, and burdens shared.

Guests of the Fisher House have shared touching testimonials, highlighting the invaluable support provided by the dedicated staff. "I don't know what I would have done without the Fisher House," remarked Cindy LeNeave, whose stay while her brother received care at the Dorn VAMC felt like "coming home" every night.

For Navy Veteran Jeffrey Clement, whose bittersweet visit included meeting his biological father for the first time, the Columbia Fisher House provided solace amid emotional upheaval. "God bless everyone here for all they do every day," he shared, encapsulating the gratitude felt by many.

Behind the scenes, the Columbia Fisher House staff, including Candler Rhodes, Katie Hanna, and Zonna Adams, have been the unsung heroes, providing unwavering support and comfort to guests. James Hayes, a retired Marine Corps Veteran who celebrated his 53rd wedding anniversary at the Columbia Fisher House while undergoing cancer treatment, praised the staff for their kindness and dedication.

Candler Rhodes, the Fisher House Manager, shared her thoughts on the Fisher House anniversary, stating, "The past year was filled with moments of profound connection and resilience. It has been an honor to witness the strength and courage of our guests as they navigate their medical journeys. We are committed to providing a supportive environment where families can focus on the patient without financial burdens or distance barriers."

As the Columbia Fisher House enters its second year, it remains steadfast in its mission to serve those who have sacrificed for our country. With unwavering dedication and compassion, the Columbia Fisher House continues to be a beacon of hope for Veterans and their families during their time of need.

Columbia VA Health Care System Acting Medical Center Director, Oscar G. Rodriguez, also expressed his appreciation for the Columbia Fisher House's impact on the community. "The Columbia Fisher House exemplifies the spirit of service and compassion that defines our institution," he stated. "We are immensely grateful for their unwavering dedication to supporting our Veterans and their families."

Looking ahead, the Columbia Fisher House remains committed to providing a supportive environment where families can find comfort and solace, ensuring no hero is left behind.

As testimonials pour in and stories of resilience and camaraderie abound, one thing is clear - the Columbia Fisher House is more than just a building; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of service and sacrifice that defines our nation's heroes.

For comprehensive information on the services available to Veterans in and around Columbia, including clinic locations and more, visit https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/ and follow us on Facebook and Instagram (keyword: VAColumbiaSC) to stay up on the latest at the Columbia VAHCS.

For more information on the Columbia Fisher House, to include criteria for staying in the Columbia Fisher House, visit https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/programs/columbia-va-fisher-house/.