Friends of New Mexico Fisher House
Helping Military Families
Friends of New Mexico Fisher House
support service members, veterans and families
receiving care
at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center with a
“Home Away from Home” .
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June 2026
Hero Miles Keeps Family
Together Through Recovery
When Senior Airman Morgan Stoneking faced multiple surgeries and a lengthy recovery from ulcerative colitis, his mother, Amber Wolfe, was determined to be by his side every step of the way.
A key part of that journey was the Fisher House Hero Miles program. Working with New Mexico VA Fisher House Manager Carlos Velasquez, Amber was able to coordinate donated airline tickets that transformed what would have been exhausting 12-hour drives into convenient flights, allowing her to spend more time focused on Morgan's recovery. Amber described the experience as "absolutely phenomenal," noting that Carlos handled the travel arrangements and that even unexpected flight delays were accommodated, ensuring she reached her son when he needed her most.
Today, Morgan no longer needs a colostomy bag and is making an excellent recovery while preparing for the next chapter of his life. His family's story is a powerful reminder that Hero Miles does more than provide transportation—it keeps families together, reduces stress during medical crises, and allows loved ones to focus on healing rather than logistics.
Story by David Nye. Photos courtesy of Amber Wolfe. Read the complete article and see additional photos in The Patriot, Volume 17, Issue 1 (2026).
Eligibility for a Fisher House stay generally requires being a family member, caregiver, or active duty/veteran patient receiving care at a nearby military or VA medical center, residing over 50 miles away.
Guests must be self-sufficient and require a referral from a doctor or social worker.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
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Patient Status: Must be an active duty service member or veteran.
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Family/Caregiver: Immediate family or caregivers of the patient.
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Distance: Must live 50+ miles away from the ABQ Fisher House.
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Medical Condition: Patients/guests must be medically stable, able to care for themselves, and not have a communicable disease.
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Referral: A referral from a social worker, case manager, or doctor is required. Check with your VA Care Team.
