By Jessica Wurst, American Red Cross

For more than three years, Suzanne Fisher has volunteered with the American Red Cross, helping families recover from disasters. After gaining experience through a virtual deployment supporting wildfire response efforts in Maui, she was eager for an opportunity to serve in person.  

Since that first deployment, Fisher has deployed nearly 10 times, primarily helping individuals and families navigate their next steps as they recover from disasters. 

When Super Typhoon Bavi struck Guam and nearby islands in July, leaving many communities facing significant challenges, Fisher was ready to answer the call once again. In some neighborhoods, power outages forced residents to rely on generators for electricity. Families worked to regain a sense of stability while preparing for the start of a new school year. 

 “I arrived feeling optimistic and hopeful that I could make a positive difference for the people of Guam,” she said. 

As families navigated recovery, Suzanne saw firsthand their determination to move forward. 

"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 interaction, however, left a lasting impression. 

Among those seeking support was a woman who had been experiencing homelessness before the disaster. Suzanne sat down with her to complete an intake assessment and better understand her needs so the Red Cross could connect her with available resources. 

"During the intake process, I asked a number of questions so we could better understand her needs and identify resources to support her transition back into the community. At the end of our conversation, she told me she wished I were her mother. That comment deeply touched me.” 

To Suzanne, the conversation was part of helping someone access assistance. To the shelter resident, it meant something more. 

Even though the questions were standard, the woman felt seen, heard and treated with dignity during a difficult moment in her life. 

“To her, the experience felt personal and caring. It reminded me that something as simple as listening attentively, making eye contact and speaking with kindness can have a profound impact. These are qualities that Red Cross volunteers bring to communities during some of their most difficult moments.” 

For Suzanne, the experience reinforced an important lesson about disaster response. Recovery is not only about meeting immediate needs. It's also about helping people feel valued, respected and supported as they navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives.