Roxane Ramos-Suarez & Riccardo Ramos-Suarez Petty Officer 3rd Class (MA3)
Roxane & Charles
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The tears fall, as Roxane Ramos-Suarez shares her family's powerful story. Roxane is Riccardo Ramos-Suarez's mother and caregiver. Riccardo, Petty Officer 3rd Class (MA3), is stationed at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington. He is currently assigned to the Marine Corps Security Forces Battalion. Riccardo's commitment to serve others is a testament to his selflessness and character. Roxane has graciously allowed Friends of Fisher House Puget Sound to share their story, and for that, we are honored and grateful.
Roxane speaks about her late husband Charles with great affection. Charles passed away one year ago. Roxane and Charles were childhood sweethearts who shared a deep and enduring love. Charles was a man of unwavering faith, with a strong devotion to his family and friends. Proud to serve in the United States Air Force, Charles believed in the values of life, liberty, and justice. Charles dedicated many years of service to the United States Airforce in Victorville, California. Charles shared a special bond with his sons, Riccardo and Cordero. Charles instilled in them the importance of serving others. Charles encouraged his sons to seize every opportunity to learn and grow. He taught them that personal growth and responsible actions ensure protection for family, community, and country. Charles' legacy of love encompassed everything from insisting on good table manners to defending freedom. His legacy continues to motivate Riccardo and Cordero to leading lives of service and commitment.
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The Early Years, Charles & Roxane
Cordero Ramos-Suarez, Riccardo's Brother
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Charles and his sons, Cordero and Riccardo
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Riccardo 5 years old, practicing putting on firefighter gear.
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Riccardo Ramos-Suarez lives out the values taught by his father. At 5 years old, he would go with his mom to the Peekskill, New York Farmers' Market every week. Riccardo did not go to the market to buy fruits and vegetables, but to visit with the Peekskill Firemen. From the time he was a young boy, the members of the department nurtured a close friendship with Riccardo and encouraged him to pursue his dream of becoming a firefighter. At 13 years young, Riccardo began his official training with the Peekskill Volunteer Fire Department. While his friends were shooting hoops and playing video games, Riccardo kept busy every day after school at the fire station. As a trainee, he practiced firefighting techniques, communication, first aid, maintaining gear, drills, and responding to emergency calls. The Peekskill department embraced him. Riccardo excelled. While working towards his dream of becoming a firefighter, he also trained to work as a certified Emergency Medical Technician. Remarkably, Riccardo alternated serving both organizations. In 2018, a senior in high school, Riccardo was sworn in as a Peekskill City Volunteer Firefighter in the City Hall's Council Chambers. He furthered his skills by completing the rigorous training required at the Westchester County Fire Training Center in Valhalla, New York.
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Riccardo's motivation to serve is simple
"It’s the right thing to do."
"It’s the right thing to do."
“The House is a respite from the chaos and emotional heartache of the accident. It is restorative to receive care during a time of crisis and to understand that you are not alone in your walk. The staff and residents are military family. There is always someone available to listen and provide support during this time of great need. It touches my heart in a way words cannot describe.” -Roxane |
Cordero and Riccardo
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A first responder at heart, Riccardo wanted to do more. In 2019, he followed in the footsteps of five generations of the Ramos-Suarez family members. All had served in various branches of the military: Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy. Riccardo enlisted with the United States Navy, in honor of his father, brother, and uncle. Riccardo's motivation to serve is simple: "It’s the right thing to do."
On January 19, 2023, Riccardo's mother, Roxane, received a phone call that changed their lives. Riccardo was injured in an accident while on patrol in a 36-foot Navy safety vessel used in waterborne operations. The boat sank at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, resulting in injuries to Riccardo and two other Navy responders.
Despite the exhaustion and emotional chaos, Roxane's voice resonates with strength and resilience as she tells her story. She remembers the phone call that jolted her awake at 2:30 a.m. on January 19. "There has been a terrible accident," a man's voice said.
"When you hear those words, your whole life changes." In that instant, Roxane recalls the passing of her husband Charles, Rico's father. Heartache and fear flooded her thoughts. "I did not know what to expect; is my son alive or is my son dead?"
"Your son is being transported to St. Joseph's Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington."
Without hesitation, Roxane replied, "I am 3000 miles away in Chesapeake, Virginia, but I’m on my way. All I ask is that you don't leave him alone. Promise me you won't leave him alone until I can get to him."
Greeted by Platoon Chief Howard in Seattle, Washington, Roxane was escorted to the hospital. As she entered the hospital room, it was evident that her son Rico was seriously injured. “Suffering from furious internal injuries.”
"I stood by that bedside and cared for my son around the clock. I told the medical team that it would take an army to remove me from his hospital room. I cried and prayed. I felt the presence of my husband Charles, his voice, telling me to stand strong. In my heart, I could hear my own voice, 'It's not today. It's not his time. Not yet.' I relied on those words moving forward."
Roxane felt overwhelmed and exhausted while caring for Ricardo. She describes herself as “Homeless.” Kelly Fulks, “A true blessing,” from Navy Wounded Warrior Bremerton visited Riccardo and arranged for Roxane to stay at the Joint Base Lewis McCord Fisher House. Roxanne arrived at Fisher House late in the evening; “I felt safe for the first time since receiving the call.” She found comfort reading the personal stories of other families who stayed at the Fisher House. Roxane knew she needed to tell Riccardo’s story. Roxane shares, “The stay at Fisher House continues to be nothing short of miraculous. All of our needs are taken care of before we ask. They supply food, bedroom, bathroom and supplies, kitchen, living room, and laundry. Everything is given to us at no cost. I am in awe of the tremendous generosity of this organization. Nothing else matters to me except caring for my son. This sanctuary removes all the distractions. The provision brings peace and the opportunity for me to focus on my Riccardo. Even in the pain, and the hurting, the future uncertain, I know we will make it.”
“The House is a respite from the chaos and emotional heartache of the accident. It is restorative to receive care during a time of crisis and to understand that you are not alone in your walk. The staff and residents are military family. There is always someone available to listen and provide support during this time of great need. It touches my heart in a way words cannot describe.”
On January 19, 2023, Riccardo's mother, Roxane, received a phone call that changed their lives. Riccardo was injured in an accident while on patrol in a 36-foot Navy safety vessel used in waterborne operations. The boat sank at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, resulting in injuries to Riccardo and two other Navy responders.
Despite the exhaustion and emotional chaos, Roxane's voice resonates with strength and resilience as she tells her story. She remembers the phone call that jolted her awake at 2:30 a.m. on January 19. "There has been a terrible accident," a man's voice said.
"When you hear those words, your whole life changes." In that instant, Roxane recalls the passing of her husband Charles, Rico's father. Heartache and fear flooded her thoughts. "I did not know what to expect; is my son alive or is my son dead?"
"Your son is being transported to St. Joseph's Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington."
Without hesitation, Roxane replied, "I am 3000 miles away in Chesapeake, Virginia, but I’m on my way. All I ask is that you don't leave him alone. Promise me you won't leave him alone until I can get to him."
Greeted by Platoon Chief Howard in Seattle, Washington, Roxane was escorted to the hospital. As she entered the hospital room, it was evident that her son Rico was seriously injured. “Suffering from furious internal injuries.”
"I stood by that bedside and cared for my son around the clock. I told the medical team that it would take an army to remove me from his hospital room. I cried and prayed. I felt the presence of my husband Charles, his voice, telling me to stand strong. In my heart, I could hear my own voice, 'It's not today. It's not his time. Not yet.' I relied on those words moving forward."
Roxane felt overwhelmed and exhausted while caring for Ricardo. She describes herself as “Homeless.” Kelly Fulks, “A true blessing,” from Navy Wounded Warrior Bremerton visited Riccardo and arranged for Roxane to stay at the Joint Base Lewis McCord Fisher House. Roxanne arrived at Fisher House late in the evening; “I felt safe for the first time since receiving the call.” She found comfort reading the personal stories of other families who stayed at the Fisher House. Roxane knew she needed to tell Riccardo’s story. Roxane shares, “The stay at Fisher House continues to be nothing short of miraculous. All of our needs are taken care of before we ask. They supply food, bedroom, bathroom and supplies, kitchen, living room, and laundry. Everything is given to us at no cost. I am in awe of the tremendous generosity of this organization. Nothing else matters to me except caring for my son. This sanctuary removes all the distractions. The provision brings peace and the opportunity for me to focus on my Riccardo. Even in the pain, and the hurting, the future uncertain, I know we will make it.”
“The House is a respite from the chaos and emotional heartache of the accident. It is restorative to receive care during a time of crisis and to understand that you are not alone in your walk. The staff and residents are military family. There is always someone available to listen and provide support during this time of great need. It touches my heart in a way words cannot describe.”
Petty Officer Riccardo, San Antonio, Texas
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“Reflecting on those first few days, my tears are a mix of heartache and gratitude. I am in awe of my son’s great character and spirit. Riccardo’s pledge to serve others, has resulted in the incredible outpouring of love, support, and prayers that have surrounded us since his accident. My son’s life brings me to my knees and reminds me of the power of community and the strength of the human spirit. No matter what your faith may be, it is important to place trust in something greater than yourself. It takes a village; it takes strong faith in God. We cannot walk this path alone. We are humbled by your incredible acts of kindness, compassion, and dedication. We are profoundly blessed. I am deeply grateful for all of you.” |
What’s Next for Riccardo?
Riccardo has several months of recovery ahead of him. For now, he will take each day as it comes. “Having a close call with death changes a person.” Riccardo's gifts of service and commitment to others remain steadfast. In closing, Riccardo, true to himself, insists, "Mom, we have to do something for them. We have to stay close to Fisher House."
Roxane echoes his sentiments and plans to volunteer for anything Fisher House or Friends of Fisher House needs. “I could never repay you enough, for taking care of mi familia.”
Roxane echoes his sentiments and plans to volunteer for anything Fisher House or Friends of Fisher House needs. “I could never repay you enough, for taking care of mi familia.”
“A proud moment. Charles is with us.”
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Heartfelt thanks to you, our donors.
We at Friends of Fisher House Puget Sound thank YOU for partnering with us to provide care for military families during a time of medical need. We couldn’t do it without you. We are profoundly grateful for your support. 
Interview & writing by Elizabeth Wirasnik |