Facing a diagnosis like AML is no easy feat. The physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming, yet Elena remains resolute in her fight for survival and healing. With the support of her loved ones and the compassionate care of Dana Farber’s medical team, Elena confronts each hurdle with courage and resilience.

Central to Elena’s journey is the vital support provided by JetBlue. Through their generous donation of free flights of hope and healing, JetBlue has become a lifeline for Elena, easing the burden of travel during this challenging time. Their contribution ensures that Elena can access the specialized care she needs without the added stress of logistical concerns.

Elena’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of support and compassion in the face of adversity. As she navigates her journey with AML, Elena finds solace in the kindness of others and the unwavering support of organizations like Angel Flight NE.

Join us in supporting Elena and others like her on their journey to healing. Your generosity can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing medical challenges, offering them hope and healing when they need it most.

As we celebrate Elena’s resilience and determination, let us also recognize the profound impact of collective support and compassion. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals like Elena, offering them hope and healing on their path to recovery.

The post Thankful Thursday ~ Elena and her Leukemia-Treatment Journey appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

It all began with a devastating accident that left Selah with severe burns, requiring specialized care and treatment. Despite the challenges he faced, Selah and his dedicated mother, Dedra, remained steadfast in their resolve to overcome his injuries. Their journey led them to Angel Flight NE, where they found a beacon of hope and support.

With the assistance of Angel Flight NE, Selah gained access to the vital medical care he needed at Shriner’s Hospital. It was here that Selah met with compassionate healthcare professionals who provided him with the care he deserved. With each flight, Selah comes one step closer to healing, allowing him to focus on his recovery journey with renewed strength and determination.

The generosity of volunteer pilots and partners made it possible for Selah to travel safely and comfortably to his appointments, ensuring that he received the care he needed without additional stress or burden. Through the collective efforts of Angel Flight NE and its supporters, Selah’s progress became a testament to the transformative power of hope and healing.

Selah’s mom, Dedra shared the following after their latest flight of hope and healing:

“Angel Flight NE has meant everything to Selah and me for the past 13 years. Angel Flight NE has been patient, kind, and sweet to us! I’m very grateful for all of the assistance they have provided over the years. Selah and I enjoy every flight, every conversation, and every laugh we get from each pilot and their assistants. We are extremely grateful for Angel Flight NE and I hope we will see them in the near future after Selah’s surgeries. We love you guys! 😊”

Selah’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of Angel Flight NE’s mission to provide free air transportation for patients in need. His story is just one among many that have been touched by our unwavering dedication to serving those facing medical challenges.

As we celebrate Selah’s resilience and determination, we invite you to join us in spreading the word about the vital work of Angel Flight NE. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of patients by offering them hope and healing when they need it most. Join us on this journey of compassion and support.

The post Selah’s Journey: Accessing Burn Care with Angel Flight NE appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Living under the constant shadow of potential blindness, Nick faces each day with remarkable bravery. Despite the daunting obstacles that stand in his way, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of medical care and healing. His determination serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges.

For Nick, accessing the specialized medical care he needs means traveling to both Baltimore &  Philadelphia, where he undergoes treatment for his condition. However, the logistical challenges of traveling between these cities present significant hurdles for Nick and his family, adding an extra layer of complexity to an already challenging journey.

Fortunately, Nick has found a source of support and solace in Angel Flight NE. Nick’s story was featured in our 2021 Patient Video. Through the generosity of our volunteer pilots and partners, such as the Alexion Charitable Foundation, Nick can travel safely and efficiently to his medical appointments. These flights not only bridge the geographical gap between Nick and his treatments but also provide him with a sense of hope and reassurance in the face of uncertainty.

Angel Flight NE has become a lifeline for Nick, offering him a pathway to hope and healing amid adversity. With each flight, he moves one step closer to preserving his vision and reclaiming his quality of life. His journey stands as a powerful testament to the impact that collective support and compassion can have on those facing medical challenges.

When reflecting on Angel Flight NE’s impact on his medical care journey, Nick shared the following:

“Ever since high school, and throughout my college and professional years, Angel Flight NE and its incredible pilots have profoundly impacted my life. Every 12 weeks, I travel to Johns Hopkins to receive essential treatments to maintain vision in one of my eyes; without this care, I would face blindness. In 2022, I was doctors found Renal Cell Carcinoma. Fortunately, innovative medications have become available to manage both my eye and kidney conditions. However, these treatments require frequent check-ups and MRIs in Baltimore and Philadelphia—a considerable journey from upstate New York. I am immensely grateful for everything Angel Flight NE does; their support makes a significant difference in my life.”

As Angel Flight NE continues its mission to provide free air transportation for patients like Nick, we remain deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our community. It is through this support that Angel Flight NE can continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing medical challenges, offering them hope and healing when they need it most.

The post ✈️ Nick’s Journey: Finding Hope and Healing with Angel Flight NE appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Meet Jim Schmitt, a dedicated volunteer pilot with Angel Flight NE, whose passion for aviation and compassion for others drive him to make a difference in the lives of patients facing medical challenges. Recently, Jim embarked on an unforgettable journey, flying three flights of hope and healing in a single day.

Jim’s day began at the crack of dawn, as he prepared his aircraft for the first leg of his mission. With each flight meticulously planned and executed, he took to the skies with a sense of purpose and determination, knowing that his efforts would make a profound impact on the lives of those he served.

Despite the long hours and the challenges of flying, Jim greeted every patient with a warm smile and a reassuring presence, offering comfort and support throughout the journey. With two flights completed and one more to go, Jim pressed on, fueled by his unwavering commitment to our mission.

As the day progressed, he navigated through the skies while never losing sight of the impact his flights would have on those in need. Finally, as the sun began to set on the horizon, Jim completed his final flight, returning home with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude. Though physically tired, his spirit soared knowing that he had made a difference in the lives of three individuals, providing them with access to the vital medical care they needed.

Jim shared the following when reflecting on Angel Flight NE and assisting patients:

“Flying Angel Flight NE missions over the years have grown to become an extremely rewarding and meaningful experience.  The feeling of gratitude that I get from helping people in need with transportation comes together with the passengers’ grateful appreciation of the service to create a very positive energy that is not often experienced.  Being able to complete four missions in two days last week was a rare and particularly rewarding opportunity.  I feel blessed to be part of an awesome team of mission coordinators and pilots.”

Jim’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the dedication and compassion of our volunteer pilots, who continue to embody the spirit of hope and healing in everything they do. As we celebrate Jim’s incredible feat, we are reminded of the profound impact that each flight of hope and healing has on the lives of those we serve.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jim and all our volunteer pilots for their unwavering commitment to our mission.

Together, we are making a difference, one flight at a time.

The post AFNE Volunteer Pilot Jim Schmitt Recognized for Three Flights of Healing & Hope in ONE DAY! appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

For Elizabeth, the prospect of a five-hour car ride to Boston for treatment was daunting, both physically and emotionally, following her diagnosis in March 2023. However, discovering Angel Flight NE provided her with a much-needed solution. Now, she can fly from Maine to Boston in a fraction of the time, accessing critical cancer care at Mass General Hospital, including radiation treatments, diagnostic tests, and abdominal surgeries.

These flights have not only reduced the physical strain but have also alleviated the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Elizabeth’s resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to us all at Angel Flight NE as she continues her brave battle against cancer.

Elizabeth shared the following:

“For the last year I have been privileged to fly with Angel Flight NE (with Cape Air as the carrier) from Bar Harbor, ME to Boston, MA for a series of treatments related to stage 3 rectal cancer, which was discovered in March 2023.

I live on an island off the coast of downeast Maine – a five-hour drive from my doctors and hospitals in Boston. The Angel Flight team made it possible for me to fly to diagnostic and assessment tests, radiation treatments, and two abdominal surgeries. Could I have been driven? Yes, probably, but the complicated logistics, emotional toll, and physical discomfort would have made it very hard. Thanks to Angel Flight NE, relief took the place of anxiety.

When I am asked about my Angel Flight NE experience, the first feeling that comes to me is “ease” – not just because I am able to travel long distances to live-saving care more easily, but because the Angel Flight NE team is so easy to work with. As a patient with a serious illness, keeping track of forms and papers and logins and referrals becomes a job I never wanted and consumes energy that would be better directed toward rest and recovery. With Angel Flight NE, I knew that after a quick phone call or email exchange with Georgie or Jonathan, my travel plans would be all set – and if I had to make a last-minute change (or if the coastal Maine weather did not cooperate!), it would be okay. Flexibility and ease are uncommon traits in today’s world – what a gift to find them in the Angel Flight NE team.

I am so grateful to all who help make Angel Flights possible – thank you for carrying me through so many life-changing experiences and for caring for so many souls.”

With the steadfast support of Angel Flight NE, generous donors, and partners like Cape Air and Maine Cancer Foundation, Elizabeth can access the vital medical care and treatment she needs without complications. She remains a cherished member of our community, reminding us daily of the importance of our mission to ensure that distance is never an obstacle in the fight against cancer.

The post ✈️ Meet Elizabeth ~ A Warrior Battling Cancer with Angel Flight NE appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Facing the complexities of her rare disease, Rachel refuses to let it define her. With Angel Flight NE’s support and partners like Cape Air, she accesses vital medical care and treatment, reducing anxiety and ensuring peace of mind. Rachel shared a heartfelt testimonial about her experience with Angel Flight NE and how it has impacted her journey:

“Angel Flight NE has played an integral role in my healthcare journey for the past year. In my unknown world of medical complexity, that my Maine medical providers are perplexed about, I’ve had to travel to Boston on several occasions to see a variety of medical professionals. As a medical incident in September of 2022 rendered me unable to work, I have been unable to financially support these trips. Due to my “complex” medical conditions, I can’t drive more than a half hour. I am a single mother of four adult children, one of whom has a genetic disorder that I am a primary caretaker for. Angel Flight NE has afforded me the ability to see Boston providers, through their air and ground supports, in a convenient way that has reduced the stress and anxiety these medical complexities have placed on my daily life. I sit in an unknown world of a “Copper Deficiency”, “Neuropathy”, “unknown abdominal and pelvic pain”, and a plethora of other symptoms that can only be described to me as “complex” and “not typical”. One thing I CAN count on in my life is knowing that Angel Flight NE always has my back whenever I need them. They have been so supportive, kind and generous in their care in arranging what I need for my Boston appointments. As I continue to fight for answers to my medical problems, I will continue to need Angel Flight NE’s support in getting to the doctors that I hope one day can give me a diagnosis that will help me return to my regular daily life. In the meantime, I have been very lucky to have the generosity of Angel Flight NE’s air and ground support “crew”. Cape Air pilots and services have been reliable and consistent. The “Angels on the Ground” have been compassionate and pleasant. Additionally, the lodging support I have received has been one of the most integral parts of my trips to Boston; I am so grateful for this. In going forward, with several Boston appointments on the books, and a surgery as well, I have no doubt in my mind that I can truly count on Angel Flight NE and it’s staff. Although they may feel like they are just doing their job, Jonathan and Georgie have become true “Angels” to me and my family, I do not know where I would be without them. Thank you Angel Flight NE for all that you do for me, I believe your organization has been the one “saving grace” I, and my children, have needed in my life.”

Rachel’s journey exemplifies the mission of Angel Flight NE, where every patient is a cherished member of the community. We stand ready to support Rachel and others like her in their battle against rare diseases.

The post Meet Rachel ~ Accessing Vital Care with Angel Flight NE’s Support appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Despite the challenges that come with her condition, Leslie’s determination and resilience shine through brightly. Every hurdle she encounters is met with unwavering resolve, inspiring those around her with her unwavering spirit.

For Leslie, traveling to New York for treatment has become a routine yet essential part of her life. With an astounding 42 flights under her belt, Leslie has relied on Angel Flight NE to bridge the gap between her home and the specialized care she needs at Memorial Sloane Kettering Medical Center. These flights serve as a lifeline, ensuring she receives the critical medical attention required to continue her fight against myelofibrosis.

Facing a rare disease like myelofibrosis presents its unique challenges, but Leslie refuses to let it define her. With the steadfast support of Angel Flight NE, she can access the vital medical care and treatment necessary to combat this condition head-on. Their unwavering dedication, coupled with our generous partners like The Alexion Charitable Foundation and JetBlue, ensures that Leslie receives the care she needs, every step of the way.

Leslie’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of Angel Flight NE’s mission. She has become an integral part of our community, embodying the spirit of resilience and hope. No matter the distance or the obstacles she faces, Angel Flight NE stands ready to support Leslie in her battle against myelofibrosis.

Through Leslie’s story, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, support, and unwavering dedication in the face of adversity. Her journey inspires us all to persevere and to never lose hope, no matter the challenges we may encounter.

The post Thankful Thursday ~ Leslie from Florida appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Since 2023, Sean has embarked on a healing journey, flying an astonishing 20 flights from New York to Boston for infusions at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Each flight with Angel Flight NE has been a lifeline, bridging the distance between his home in Northern NY and the specialized care he needs in Boston. Sean’s unwavering spirit and courage serve as an inspiration to us all.

Facing a rare and aggressive form of cancer presents its own set of challenges, but Sean refuses to let it define him. With the support of Angel Flight NE, Sean can access the vital medical care and treatment he requires to continue his fight against this rare disease. Our dedicated team, along with the generous support of partners like Cape Air, ensures that Sean receives the care he needs, every step of the way.

“We are so thankful to have Angel Flights helping with transportation.  Sean travels from our home in Northern New York to Boston every 2 weeks for what has turned out to be truly life saving treatment.  Unfortunately his cancer (originally diagnosed and treated in 2021) spread to lymph nodes in his chest before it was caught so it is now Stage 4.  He was able to join a clinical trial at Dana Farber Cancer Center in Boston which has stopped his cancer in its tracks!  But the cost of traveling by air was becoming very difficult for us to afford.  Driving takes around 7 hours each way and that long in the car is very uncomfortable for Sean.  We were so relieved to discover that Angel Flights could help.  It has made the process of traveling to his treatments so much more efficient and we are incredibly grateful that our financial outlay has been reduced. The staff at both Angel Flights and Cape Air have been fantastic and have helped make this situation so much more bearable.” -Gwen, Sean’s Wife

Sean has become a cherished member of the Angel Flight NE community, and his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of our mission. We want Sean and his family to know that we are here for them whenever they need our assistance, ensuring that distance is never an obstacle in his battle against metastatic squamous cell throat cancer.

The post Meet Sean~ A Warrior Fighting Through a Cancer Diagnosis appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

In late December 2022, Meredith faced another daunting challenge when she battled the flu and began vomiting blood. Rushed to the local emergency room, she was diagnosed with a rare condition called “Non-Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension” with Esophageal Varices. The gravity of her situation was clear, with the potential for severe complications looming.

When Meredith’s mother, Theresa, reached out to Angel Flight NE for assistance in getting Meredith to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, we immediately offered our support. With the invaluable assistance of The Alexion Charitable Foundation and the Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Lives, we swiftly coordinated a flight from Philadelphia to Chicago, ensuring Meredith received the critical surgery she urgently needed. We assured Theresa that whenever Meredith is ready to return home, we stand ready to arrange her flight back.

Meredith, Theresa, and their family have become cherished members of the Angel Flight NE community. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of our mission: to provide unwavering support to individuals facing medical challenges. We want them to know that we are here for Meredith whenever she needs our assistance to access the vital care and treatment required to battle her rare disease and continued healthcare crisis. Theresa shared the following:

“Angel Flight NE has been such a big help to our family over the last year! When our daughter needed surgery in Chicago over the summer, Angel Flight was so generous and covered the airfare for our family to travel there. During a time when we were dealing with so much stress, this was a big weight to take off our shoulders. A lot of our trip and her surgery was scary and unknown, including when we would return home. But Angel Flight was always there for us when we called, ready to book our next flight. Then when we had a follow up appointment months later, they didn’t hesitate to help us again. We can’t express how helpful it’s been to have them on our journey!“

Meredith’s story embodies the spirit of resilience and hope, showcasing the transformative impact of community support. As we continue our mission, her journey will always hold a special place in our hearts, inspiring us to make a difference, one flight at a time.

Meredith’s story is just one example of how we transform lives with the support of our compassionate commercial aviation partners and generous organizations like The Alexion Charitable Foundation and the Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Lives. Your support is also crucial in ensuring that distance is never an obstacle for patients and families in need.

The post Meet the Miraculous Meredith from New Jersey! appeared first on Angel Flight NE.

Linda’s journey with multiple myeloma has led her to The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York for weekly specialized treatment. The distance from Maine to New York presents significant challenges, but with the unwavering support of Angel Flight NE, Linda finds solace in knowing that she can access the care she needs.

Linda’s experience highlights the vital role that Angel Flight NE plays in bridging the gap between patients and essential medical care. Through the dedication of our volunteer pilots and the generous contributions of supporters like the Maine Cancer Foundation, we ease the burden of travel for patients like Linda.

John, Linda’s husband, beautifully articulates the profound impact of Angel Flight NE’s support on their family. He shared the following on the behalf of his wife:

“I was blessed enough to meet another Angel Flight patient at the NYC Hope Lodge my first week of treatment.  He asked me if I’d ever heard about Angel Flights and gave me Georgie’s number. That was almost 2 1/2 years ago.  Since then I have had many wonderful pilots, and great help from Georgie, Jonathan, and the entire AFNE team!!!  Thank God for Angel Flights!!!”

Linda’s journey serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. As we navigate the complexities of healthcare, her story inspires hope and underscores the importance of our mission.

Together, we continue to make a difference in the lives of patients like Linda, ensuring they receive the care they deserve. Linda’s journey reminds us that with compassion and support, anything is possible.

The post Meet Linda and her Incredible Cancer Healthcare Journey! appeared first on Angel Flight NE.