Many residents of Leisure World know that the acronym FISH means "Friends in Sickness and Health". But they probably don’t know that there are more than 1,000 chapters of FISH in America, as well as numerous chapters in many other countries throughout the world.

FISH has no national structure, and it is strongly believed that this is one of the keys to its success. Each local chapter, as a result, finds its own community’s needs, and works toward filling those needs as they arise in the community.

At Leisure World, the services of FISH include the free loan of medical equipment to residents with a temporary need. Our inventory includes wheelchairs, canes, walkers, tub stools, easy reachers and commodes. Desk hours are Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 p.m.

Loans are usually made when the FISH desk is open. However, when this is not possible, the E & R office may be contacted for assistance. We are unable to deliver or pick up equipment.

The borrower must arrange transportation of the equipment.

The FISH operation is wholly supported by donations of cash or equipment. We accept donations of the following equipment: wheelchairs, walkers with wheels, canes, tub stools, and easy reachers. If you wish to donate equipment, it would be good to call the FISH desk to be sure the equipment is appropriate to our specific needs. We do not accept items such as commodes, walkers without wheels, crutches, magnifiers, slings, humidifiers and other equipment, for which there is less demand, and which would overwhelm our storage space. Donated money is used to purchase or repair equipment and for office supplies.

FISH provides other services as well. While FISH does not provide transportation for those in need, a list of current organizations and residents who do drive (usually at a fee) is maintained at the desk. Ask for a copy of this transportation schedule if you are interested. FISH also operates the Lost and Found division. If you have lost something, you may want to check in person at the FISH desk just off the lobby in Clubhouse I. If you have found something, please turn it in there. The FISH office is a collection site for old eyeglasses for the Lion’s Club, which distributes the glasses to those in need worldwide.

As always, we thank the people at the E & R desk who help out unstintingly whenever there is a need, as well as those who help move equipment to and from the storage room. Thanks are also due to those who have donated equipment or funds to FISH over the years. All of these wonderful people have contributed in different ways to the success and longevity of "Friends in Sickness and Health."
 

By Mary Anne Sonnenschein