– Life can change in an instant — something one of our island neighbors knows all too well. After caring for her partner through a long period of poor health, she recently faced a heartbreaking loss when he passed. In the difficult months that followed, FISH of SanCap has been there to help pick up the pieces, offering comfort, care, and connection. The individual wishes to remain anonymous.
Through programs like Meals-by-FISH, Smile Boxes, the Friendly Faces luncheon and more, an island neighbor has found not only needed help but a sense of community and friendship. She received access to home health resources and medical equipment, and was one of the many islanders supported by FISH’s post-hurricane aid following recent storms. In a heartfelt note to Erika Arnowitz, FISH’s Senior Services Director, she shared:
“Dearest Erika, ‘wow oh wow’ the Smile Box does just that—makes me smile. I hate to admit how much I need those smiles these days, but I am hanging in there. Thank you for the lovely card after the passing of my beloved. Thank you for the support in his end-of-life care and now the support of not only me but our family. Oh, how things can change in a flash. Losing a loved one is never easy of course, but having support from FISH has helped ease the pain. The meals were helpful because between us, I wouldn’t have even been able to find a spoon my head was spinning so fast. Thank you for guiding me through getting our affairs in order, those computers are hard to deal with! I never thought I would need this much help, especially those supportive phone calls and texts checking on me. Funny how the house is so noticeably quiet, but there on my desk is your Smile Box, and it makes me feel less alone and does brighten my day. We all need that in our lives. I will see you at the luncheon; it will be a big day out for me and nice to socialize and be with others. You can tell this is your passion and how you love to nurture others. Many blessings to you and FISH and thank you for being a constant support, thank you.”
FISH has also signed her up as a holiday food and gift drive recipient, ensuring she’s surrounded by community and togetherness this holiday season and bringing a sense of care and connection during an especially difficult time.
At FISH, we know that everyone faces hard times — whether it’s losing a loved one, recovering from a storm, or simply feeling the weight of loneliness. That’s why our Senior Services programs are committed to bringing connection and compassion to those who need it most.
Erika Arnowitz shares, “We hear from our seniors all the time that small gestures, like a warm meal, a simple phone call, or a Smile Box filled with thoughtful treats, bring them incredible comfort. These moments remind them that Sanibel and Captiva are special places, where neighbors look out for one another and no one is forgotten. Many of our seniors, like this one, have faced incredible hardship — from enduring hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton to caring for loved ones through long-term illness and loss. Having a caring community and access to programs that truly surround them with support makes all the difference.”
Through these wraparound services, FISH helps seniors and others move through crisis with compassion and stability. Whether it’s recovery from storms, the loss of a loved one, or simply navigating the challenges of aging or hardship, FISH can assist with meals, medical equipment, companionship, hope and more — ensuring no island neighbor faces life’s hardest moments alone.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help, or a reason to smile, please reach out to FISH at 239-472-4775 or visit fishofsancap.org. We’re here, neighbors helping neighbors, every step of the way.
