09/29/2026
For more than three years, Suzanne Fisher has supported families through some of the hardest days of their lives.
As an American Red Cross volunteer, Suzanne has deployed nearly 10 times to support disaster relief efforts, helping people navigate recovery and take the first steps toward rebuilding after emergencies. When Super Typhoon Bavi impacted Guam and nearby islands this summer, she answered the call once again.
Across affected communities, families worked to recover from power outages, housing challenges and widespread disruption. As the new school year approached, many were focused on creating a sense of stability and normalcy for their children.
“I arrived feeling optimistic and hopeful that I could make a positive difference for the people of Guam,” Suzanne shared. She witnessed resilience in action.
“Families were especially focused on getting settled before the start of the school year. Their determination to regain a sense of normalcy stood out to me and highlighted how important stable housing and routine are to recovery.”
One conversation, in particular, stayed with her. While assisting a woman who had been experiencing homelessness before the disaster, Suzanne conducted an intake assessment to better understand her needs and connect her with available resources. To Suzanne, it was part of the process. To the woman, it meant much more.
“At the end of our conversation, she told me she wished I were her mother. That comment deeply touched me.”
The questions Suzanne asked were routine. But the care, kindness and attention she brought to the interaction helped the woman feel seen, heard and respected during a difficult chapter of her life.
“It reminded me that something as simple as listening attentively, making eye contact and speaking with kindness can have a profound impact.”
Moments like these are a powerful reminder that disaster recovery is about more than providing shelter, food and resources. It is also about human connection. It's about meeting people where they are, treating them with dignity and offering support when they need it most.
