Pampering for the Families
Guests at Fisher House are here for one reason: to provide support and encouragement to their ill or injured loved one. However, the role of caretaker is a heavy one. The stresses of illness and being away from home are challenging. We are grateful to our volunteers who give their time and talent to bring these programs to our guests. Here is a small sample of what is available to guests.
Massage Therapy
After long days sitting at a loved one's bedside, 20 minutes of chair massage is a welcome break.The benefits are tremendous. "It is twenty minutes of escape to someplace else", said guest Beth T.
In order to strengthen a program that had relied solely on volunteers the Friends offered to pay licensed therapist Charles Fedd to lead the program and assure massage would be provided at least once a week. Additional sessions are then provided by volunteers as they are available.
Charles, himself a Marine Veteran says, "I love having the opportunity to show the families that not only does the VA take care of their love ones, but we at the Fisher House know the importance of caring for those who constantly give. The guests are so busy tending to others; I find it fulfilling to ease their stress and focus on them".
Sit & Knit
Patty Skommesa heeded the call for a knitting instructor, allowing the institution of a weekly opportunity for guests to gather together and get creative. Guests who are already crafty can work on projects and share tips and tricks. Those who want to learn can drop in for some skilled instruction in the fine art of knitting (or crochet). Very often guests just sit with a cup of coffee and enjoy conversation, grateful for the break in routine. Patty provides a peaceful presence as she works her needles and gently engages guests with her patient instruction and listening ear. |
Style by Sophia
Twice a month Sophia Blackman comes to Fisher House to set up an in-house salon and treat guests to haircuts. For folks away from home and spending long hours at the hospital this is the sort of "extra" that goes a long way toward self-care. As guest Peg said, "When you look good you feel good!" Sophia's parents have been beneficiaries of Fisher House so she knows how important the House is to families. Sophia's heart for the program. warm personality, and mad skills with a pair of scissors is a wonderful asset to Fisher House guests!
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GNO (Guests Night Out)
Fisher House guests, especially those here for extended stays, can sometimes go a little stir crazy. They need a shift in routine, but are reluctant to leave campus. We encourage them to get out and about with a monthly "GNO" or "Guests Night Out". We explore neighborhood restaurants and other venues, with all costs borne by the Friends. More than the food or seeing a new part of Seattle, what guests appreciate the most is an opportunity to get away and feel 'normal'. Guest Mylean put it simply: "I never thought I would be given a gift like this,"
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