Distance can be a major barrier to accessing quality healthcare in a timely manner. For patients, access to air transportation can make all the difference in getting the treatment they need. However, flights can be expensive, and putting off medical care because of costs can put you or your loved ones at risk. That's where Angel Flight East comes in. Welcome to Take Off Talk with Angel Flight East, a nonprofit dedicated to facilitating free air transportation for children and adults with medical conditions who need treatment far from home. Our organization covers a 14 state footprint from Virginia to Ohio to Maine and for further distances, we partner with other public benefit flying organizations. No matter how many times you need to get to your medical treatment or see a loved one in need, we are here to help. Unfortunately, few people know about free services like ours, and thus cannot use them when needed. We don't know how many people forgo medical care because they don't have accessible transportation, and that's what this podcast is here to change. Listen to real life stories from people who have used our services to get the care they need on time. Hear from our volunteers and staff about why they choose to help at their own expense. Our volunteer pilots use their private planes to fly patients to destinations, and pay for all expenses for each flight. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire anyone who wishes to volunteer and become a part of our community. AFE provides help to social workers and case managers who need assistance in order to provide the best quality care. They are some of the most overworked people in healthcare, and we want them to understand how easy it is to use Angel Flight East. We aim to be a resource in their back pocket in case any of their patients need help traveling to medical care far from home. We also partner with various nonprofit organizations to provide additional resources to our patients, including assistance with household bills, ground transportation, and help with hotel expenses. Each episode of Take Off Talk is released in audio and video formats, so listeners can see the generous people on our team. The show is hosted by passionate AFE staff members Jessica “Jess†Ames and Madeline “Maddy†Beck. Jess is the Outreach & Events Director at Angel Flight East and has been involved with the organization since 2014. In her time with the company, she’s worn many hats - as working in nonprofits often requires. From the first programs and events director to flight coordination, Jess has communicated with patients, pilots, family members, donors, and beyond. She can answer any question you have about how the program works. Co-host Maddy is AFE’s Community Outreach Coordinator. In her role, she interacts and engages with clubs, groups, and other organizations and educates them about our services. The two have become inseparable since being colleagues at Angel Flight East and plan to add in some humor to each episode. Learn from the hosts and invited guests who share their experiences from both ends - as recipients and volunteers. If you're a healthcare worker or a patient in need of air travel and flight services, AFE is here for you. In fact, we're here for everyone. Join us in our mission and tune in to Take Off Talk to learn more. For more information about Angel Flight East, please visit our website at www.angelflighteast.org or call our office at 215-358-1900! You can also reach the hosts by email- jessames@angelflighteast.org and mbeck@angelflighteast.org.
In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Ben, a dedicated volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East, who shares his inspiring journey of combining his passion for flying with a purpose-driven mission. Ben, who has been flying out of Wings Airport in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania for over a decade, discovered Angel Flight East through fellow aviation enthusiasts and has been volunteering for three years. He recounts memorable flights, including one where he and his daughter helped transport a family in need to Boston for a critical medical procedure. Ben emphasizes the joy and fulfillment he finds in using his flying skills to assist others, highlighting the professionalism and community spirit of Angel Flight East. He encourages other pilots to join this rewarding experience and assures potential clients of the organization's commitment to safety and comfort. Ben's story is a testament to the power of giving back and the unique opportunities that public benefit flying offers to both pilots and passengers alike.
In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Mitch, a dedicated volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East. Mitch shares his journey of flying compassion flights for over 20 years, touching lives with his selfless service. He recounts a memorable flight with a mother and her child battling cancer, where a simple act of letting her fly the plane brought laughter and relief. Mitch's passion for flying and helping others is evident as he discusses the camaraderie among pilots and the support from air traffic controllers and FBOs. His story highlights the incredible impact of Angel Flight organizations, offering free flights to those in need and creating lasting bonds between pilots and passengers. Mitch's message is clear: the joy of flying is amplified when it's for a cause, and he encourages more pilots to join this rewarding mission. Tune in to hear more about Mitch's inspiring experiences and the difference Angel Flight makes in people's lives.
In this heartfelt episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Ed, a former diagnostic radiologist whose life took an unexpected turn due to chronic health issues, including peripheral neuropathy. Despite facing numerous challenges and being told by conventional medicine that there was no hope, Ed embarked on a journey of self-advocacy and holistic healing. Through faith, prayer, and unconventional treatments, he defied the odds, running marathons and reclaiming his life. Angel Flight East played a pivotal role in his journey, providing crucial transportation to medical appointments when all seemed lost. Ed's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the importance of exploring all avenues of healing. His experience underscores the need for greater awareness of holistic practices and the invaluable support of organizations like Angel Flight East. Join us as we explore Ed's inspiring journey of resilience and hope.
In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Debbie, a resilient passenger who shares her incredible journey with Angel Flight East. Diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy over a decade ago, Debbie's path has been challenging, marked by two heart transplants and countless trips to the Cleveland Clinic. Financial constraints and the long 12-hour drive from Virginia to Ohio made these trips daunting, until Angel Flight East stepped in. With the help of compassionate pilots like Kley, who went above and beyond to ensure her comfort, Debbie found a lifeline. Her story highlights the profound impact of Angel Flight East, not just in easing travel burdens, but in fostering a community of support and friendship. Debbie's experience underscores the importance of organizations like the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association in connecting patients with vital resources. Her gratitude and advocacy for these services shine through, reminding us of the power of kindness and community in times of need.
This week's episode of Take Off Talk features one of our newer passengers, Ken, who has stage four cancer. Listen to his heartfelt story about all the different medical challenges he has overcome. Despite these challenges, Ken still continues to stay positive, and shares his experiences working with Angel Flight East.
Meet Mounyroth, a graduate student in Philadelphia, who was facing a difficult choice: continue his studies and career path or prioritize the travel needed for essential medical treatments far from home. The long, costly trips were becoming unmanageable alongside his studies and mounting expenses. Then, Mounyroth found Angel Flight East. With free flights from our dedicated volunteer pilots, he can reach the specialized care he needs without sacrificing his future. Now, Mounyroth can pursue his degree with peace of mind, knowing he has access to critical treatments.
Family Reach is the only national nonprofit focused solely on helping people with cancer access food, housing, utilities, and transportation. Angel Flight East partners with Family Reach to ensure our patients not only have access to care, but other resources as well.
On this week's episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Gina Frost and hearing her heartfelt testimonial on how Angel Flight East has impacted her life.
This week's episode of Take Off Talk features our very own Flight Coordinator, David Dailey! You may have heard us talk about David on multiple occasions and we couldn't think of a better week to bring him into the mix. You will hear how David came to Angel Flight, as well as what we are all most excited about this holiday season.
When you take to the skies, real impact is measured in lives changed. In this episode, we meet Kley Parkhurst, Angel Flight East's Pilot of the Year, whose volunteer flying has touched countless lives. Kley shares his journey from becoming a pilot in midlife to flying patients, pets, and supplies for causes like Hurricane Helene relief. Through heartfelt stories, he reveals how combining his love of aviation with service has brought him purpose, joy, and the chance to make a difference. From flying life-saving missions to coordinating pet rescues, Kley's dedication exemplifies how passion can turn into meaningful impact.
Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Derek Ray, an AFE passenger, who looks back on how Angel Flight saved his life. He shares how taking the flight cut his travel time by a huge chunk, allowing him to get to his heart transplant surgery on time. Derek also expresses his desire to volunteer for Angel Flight after their services drastically transformed his overall outlook in life.
Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Elizabeth Ameling, CEO and Founder of one of Angel Flight's partner organizations, Latisha's House. She shares how they provide safe housing and restorative care for victims of sex trafficking and exploitation, guiding them down the path of healing and recovery. Elizabeth presents the various methods they are using to help women deal with trauma and manage negative thoughts. She also shares some success stories of victims who refused to be held back by their traumatic experiences, spreading inspiration and awareness to all.
Jess Ames and Maddy Beck sit down with Michael Henricks, a husband and father who once tried Angel Flight's Compassion Flight. He recounts how they flew her daughter to Boston for a medical operation, significantly reducing their trip to just an hour and 45 minutes. Michael shares how Angel Flight saved them not just time but even the life of her beloved girl. He also celebrates the strength and resilience of his wife and older daughter throughout this challenging journey.
Traveling with a sick child can be daunting, but for Taylor Conner, mom to Kendall battling a rare disease, it was nearly impossible. Taylor joins Jess Ames and Maddy Beck to share her heartfelt appreciation for the Angel Flight experience. She discusses how this vital service helped Kendall, who battles mitochondrial disease, travel safely to receive necessary medical care without the stress and burden of a long drive. This episode dives into the immense challenges Taylor faces when traveling long distances with Kendall for specialist appointments. Kendall's fight is ongoing, and research is critical. Learn more about this disease and donate to Kendall's research fund at the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.
Have you ever considered opening your home to someone in need? In today's episode on Take Off Talk, Maddy and Jess chat with Cathy Davis, the heart and soul behind Host for Hospitals, a local non-profit providing a lifeline for patients and families facing medical challenges. Listen and discover how Host for Hospitals offers a unique alternative to traditional hospital housing, creating a warm and welcoming environment for families traveling for specialized care. Cathy explains why becoming a host is an enriching experience, fostering connections and offering comfort during difficult times. She also shares inspiring stories about the program's impact on hosts and guests. You will also discover how YOU can get involved, open your home, and be part of something exceptional. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation that will inspire you to make a difference in others' lives.
Ready to soar beyond the clouds? In this episode, Maddy Beck and Jess Ames welcome Volunteer Pilot Luis Quinones, an aviator with a heartwarming story and a love for the skies. With nearly a decade of flying under his belt, Luis shares his unique journey from helicopter beginnings to his current adventures in his upgraded Mooney M20J. But it's not just about the flying; it's about the lives he touches through his volunteer work with Angel Flight East. From the poignant stories of those he's flown to the personal trials that shaped his resilience—including his kidney transplant story—Luis exemplifies the spirit of giving and adventure. This episode is sure to inspire and uplift. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a little bit of turbulence!
Have you ever been dismissed by a doctor and ended up having a serious medical condition? Erika Liess' story is all too common. She shares her experience with Chiari malformation, the frustrating journey to get diagnosed, and the amazing support she found online and with Angel Flight East. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt unheard by the medical establishment. Erika's story is a powerful reminder that you are your own best advocate for your health, and there is hope and support out there for those facing chronic illness.
Facing end-of-life care can be a daunting experience, but Jess Ames and Maddy Beck are here to shed light on the support available. Joining them today is Jonathan, a Mission Support Coordinator from Grace Healthcare Services, to discuss the comforting embrace of hospice care. Jonathan recounts the challenges of navigating the healthcare system to find a solution for the patient's transportation needs and how Angel Flight East provided a lifeline in their time of need. Overall, the message of Jonathan's story is that there is support available for people who are going through end-of-life care. Angel Flight East and hospice care can provide comfort and support to patients and families during a difficult time.
The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA) is a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The organization has served the HCM Spectrum Disorder Community since 1996. In this episode, Lisa Salberg, the Founder and CEO of HCMA, talks about the steps she takes to reach patients with misdiagnosis. She also shares how HCMA partnered with Angel Flight East. Tune in for more!
In times of adversity, the strength of community emerges as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the significance of reaching out for help. In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the profound impact of Angel Flight with guest Shannon Sinico, who shares her personal journey battling a brain tumor and the invaluable support she received from the organization. Shannon recounts her experiences flying to and from medical appointments, highlighting the compassion and care of the pilots. Amidst her health struggles, Shannon's resilience shines through as she navigates misdiagnoses, surgeries, and the challenges of advocating for herself. Through it all, Angel Flight not only provides transportation but also a supportive ear. Join us as Shannon's story reminds us of the power of community and the importance of reaching out for help in times of need.
In this heartwarming episode, hosts Jess Ames and Maddy Beck welcome Ashlyn Dugan, the founder of Love from Liam Foundation—the partner organization of Angel Flight East. Ashlyn shares her inspiring journey of creating the foundation when her son Liam was born with spina bifida. The conversation touches on the challenges these families face, the importance of community support, and Love from Liam's impactful events. As Ashlyn opens up about her daily life, running a coffee shop, and juggling motherhood, we get a glimpse into the strength and passion that drives her commitment to making a difference. Hear Ashlyn's powerful message of hope and encouragement for families facing similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of embracing the light at the end of the tunnel.
Joining Jess Ames and Maddy Beck in this episode is volunteer pilot Doug Edenburn, who flies with Angel Flight Soars. He shares how he started flying in late 2022 and works in a primary care office when not on his wings. Doug talks about his very first Angel Flight trip and the one time he took a four-week-old baby from Atlanta to Greensboro.
When caring for a loved one with a medical condition, the last thing you want to worry about is figuring out how to get to where you need to be. Angel Flight lifts this burden from families. In this heartwarming episode, join Maddy Beck and Jess Ames as they share an inspiring conversation with Beth Leduc, a dedicated mom navigating the complexities of her son's medical condition. Christian, diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, requires specialized care in distant cities, making travel a significant challenge. Enter Angel Flight – a group of dedicated pilots providing free flights for medical patients in need. Beth recounts her transformative experiences flying with Angel Flight, detailing the support, care, and community they've found in the process. Tune in to discover the profound impact of Angel Flight on families navigating the complexities of medical care.
What better episode to have in this month of love than with a person we love so much? Join us today as we celebrate Valentine's Day and our very own Maddy Beck's birthday week with the incredible Linda Pizzi, our office mom. Linda, the driving force behind many of our projects, shares her journey with Angel Flight East—from her initial exposure at a gala to becoming an indispensable part of our team. She sheds light on her current project, reaching out to fire departments and rural communities to spread awareness about Angel Flight's vital services. Tune in to discover the heartwarming stories and laughter that fill our office, and learn how Linda's dedication and positivity make Angel Flight East soar even higher.
A different music takes flight into the silent corridors of hospitals where long shadows of illnesses are cast into the hall. The children's fight against cancer caused so much fear and uncertainty towards the kids and their loved ones, but the symphony of support will help them dance through the battle. In this episode, Rachel Krieger, the Co-founder of Ollie's Orchestra, talks about how the organization spreads solace to kids and their families as they fight the horrors of pediatric cancer. Ollie's Orchestra will not let you go through this battle alone. Let's join Rachel as she hands musical backpacks to families to receive the gift of music that transformed Rachel and Ollie's lives. Because in the face of unimaginable fight, music takes flight into the world of healing. So, don't miss this episode where music meets healing.
In this heartfelt episode of Takeoff Talk with Angel Flight East, hosts Maddie and Jess welcome Mya Hostutler, a remarkable cancer survivor, to share her inspiring journey. Mya recounts her childhood battle with spinal cancer, detailing surgeries, radiation therapy, and the resilient spirit that kept her going. She expresses deep gratitude for Angel Flight East, which made her treatment more accessible and allowed her to savor life as a normal kid. Mya's infectious positivity and strength shine through as she reflects on her cancer-free life post-treatment. The hosts, Maddie and Jess, add their signature humor to the mix in what promises to be an engaging and uplifting episode. Tune in!
It's often very hard for many people to wrap their heads around the fact that organizations like Angel Flight East do exist. A lot of times, they are wary and skeptical. After all, who in their right minds would fly medical passengers for absolutely no cost at all? But you'd be surprised just how much volunteer pilots love what they do. Stephanie Ramos as been through this experience as she navigates her journey through sickle cell disease, and she has nothing but good things to say about the organization, the flying experience, and especially the heroic volunteer pilots. Tune in to hear her testimony!
Jess Ames and Maddy Beck are back after the holiday break! Today, they welcome the rookie of the year. In this episode, Jide Olusanya, a Volunteer Pilot, shares his flight journey and picks his favorite flight. He also explains what it's like to be a pilot and shares advice on becoming a volunteer pilot. Buckle your seatbelts because we will fly high with the rookie of the year today! Be an inspired volunteer pilot with Jide in this episode.
Sometimes, life offers us an entirely new pathway to utilize even our dormant skills to help others. For Volunteer Pilot Rob Newman, Angel Flight became an amazing excuse to go fly again. From the Air Force to graduate school to volunteering at Angel Flight, Rob shares with us his amazing journey of helping others. He talks about what Angel Flight means to him and introduces us to public benefit flying, assisting patients across skies and time zones. Rob then shares with us his favorite passenger story, taking us behind the scenes of the service they provide to those in need. Join us in discovering the heartfelt stories and profound impact each flight carries, along with the volunteer pilots who dedicate their skills to making a difference in people's lives.
When you volunteer, you get more than you give. In this episode, Jess Ames and Maddy Beck welcome Rich Cohen, one of their dedicated volunteers at Angel Flight. Rich shares his journey into volunteering, explaining how he stumbled upon Angel Flight years ago and instantly felt connected to its mission. He then takes us inside the Wings & Wheels event, highlighting its growth and the positive impact on fundraising for Angel Flight. What is more, Rich shares his life outside of volunteering, touching on his passion for music, management roles in various businesses, and frequent travels. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation with a dedicated volunteer making a difference in his community.
At 44 years old, Christie Neeld was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer in September 2021. Because of Angel Flight, her medical journey was made possible, and her healing process progressed. She shares how the process of getting well from cancer is full-time work. Her attitude towards facing cancer is remarkably amazing because she finds the flip side of it. Be inspired by Christie Neeld as she takes off with Angel Flight today.www.angelflighteast.org
With Angel Flight, not only do you get the convenience of flying across states for your medical treatments, but you also build strong bonds with the staff who take you there. In this special episode, we witness that bond between the Founder of Angel Flight Northeast, Larry Camerlin, and passenger, Tim Kavanagh. Jess Ames and Maddy Beck speak with Larry and Tim about what Angel Flight means to them, celebrating milestones and furthering the mission to provide services that touch so many lives. Tune in to this inspiring conversation to share in on the amazing experience of selfless acts of service and the transformative journeys passengers take through the skies with Angel Flight by them.
Today's guest loves anything with engines, one of the reasons he wants to become a pilot. Volunteer Pilot Tom Mellett sits with Jess and Maddy for an Angel Flight talk. He shared his challenging experience and how it pushed him to continue to fly. Tom urges everyone who wants to join Angel Flight because it is fulfilling as a pilot. Join Tom Mellett in this wonderful conversation.www.angelflighteast.org
Angel Flight: where compassion takes flight, and small planes create big miracles. In this episode, we soar through a heartfelt journey with special guest Bill Brown from Casa Volunteers, who shares his incredible experience with Angel Flight. Bill opens up about the practical aspects of flying in small planes, addressing the common fears and uncertainties that some passengers may have. Hosts Jess Ames and Maddy Beck also discuss their own adventures in aviation, expressing their preference for general aviation over commercial flying. All together, they discuss the importance of pre-planning your Angel Flight journey, the importance of giving back, a wish list that includes some high-flying destinations, and more. Tune in now.
Volunteer flying: where every mile we fly becomes a bridge of hope for those in need, reminding us that the skies hold the power to change lives and heal hearts. Join us as we soar through the skies of compassion, dedication, and collaboration with a remarkable guest, Mark Hanson, a volunteer pilot for Angel Flight East. He shares his 'why' in providing essential flights for those who are in medical deserts. With over 400 volunteer flights under his belt, Mark shares memorable moments and the incredible impact of his missions, including a touching story about a young girl named Katie who embodies resilience and courage. Buckle up and get ready to embark on an uplifting journey of giving back.
Life's most extraordinary stories are born from the courage to defy the odds and the strength to embrace every moment. Today, we have the privilege of hearing Angel Flight passenger Christine's survival journey. Ten years ago, Christine received a life-altering diagnosis of a rare form of brain cancer, and the doctors gave her just two to three years to live. Against all expectations, Christine not only surpassed her prognosis but also found renewed hope and support in her battle against the disease. Christine shows her unwavering faith, determination, and the incredible support she received from Angel Flight East helped her navigate the complex world of medical treatments and care. Listen closely as Christine shares her favorite flight experiences with the dedicated pilots who went the extra mile, including a touching detour over a cherished landmark. Christine's story is a reminder that every day is a chance to celebrate life. Tune in now.
Where the stage meets the sky, we find our wings of compassion – reminding us that in our darkest hours, the light of humanity shines the brightest. In this episode, we take off with David Turner, a Broadway and television actor who takes his passion for flying to new heights by volunteering his time with Angel Flight East. David shares how he finds solace in the cockpit, where he discovers the magic of helping others in their times of need. His incredible eight-year journey as a volunteer pilot shows the powerful connection between acting and flying, both centered around making a difference and touching lives. Through the lens of his unique experiences, we explore the deep impact pilots like David have on the people they fly, shining a light on the resilience and love for life that often hides behind medical diagnoses. Tune in to this episode and embrace the beautiful reminder that, as David puts it, "things this great are on earth, people care."
Traveling from state to state on a commercial flight while dealing with a health condition can be extra challenging. Extending their arms to provide a valuable service, Angel Flight East takes that burden off for many patients. Today, we hear from one of the passengers as she takes off with Angel Flight while battling with colon cancer. Shani Billings shares how grateful she had been with the program that helped her combat her health condition. From being clouded by the storm clouds of cancer, the sun finally shines for Shani to walk down the aisle on a white veil occasion. Let's venture into this inspiring episode with Shani Billings today.
In this episode, Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with volunteer pilot Earl Burkholder, who bought a plane a couple of years after his retirement. He shares his deep love of passenger interactions that captivated him to work in Angel Flight East. Earl also talks about his previous job as a nuclear engineer and how he underwent commercial training to improve his flying.
Tim Barr had his first kidney transplant 23 years ago. The second transplant happened just recently. In this episode, Tim Barr shares his healthcare journey and the emotional rollercoaster he dealt with. Through the Navy Reserves connection Tim had, he was able to discover Angel Flight East. Overall, he had seven flights so far which gave him major convenience. Tim shares a piece of advice for passengers flying on a small airplane. Don't miss this episode with Tim Barr today!
Volunteer pilots are willing to help strangers with their service. Today's guest is no different. Bob Blouin, a volunteer pilot, shares his experience flying with Angel Flight and the personal impact it has had on him. Although Bob retired from two aviation companies, he still runs around doing many things in his life. His brother advised him to do something purposeful every day because everything would follow. Find some inspiration to serve others by tuning in.
How great your medical journey would be when someone takes you to your destination safely and securely? At the very least, it takes all the stress around commuting. Today, Matt Hemker shares how grateful he's been taking off with volunteer pilots and keeping a secure and safe medical journey for him. David, the flight coordinator, had a great help in taking care of Matt's flight. He describes his experience flying a small airplane. Hear how impactful Angel Flight is towards their passengers in this beautiful episode.
Enter the heartwarming realm of Angel Flight East and join us on an adventure alongside Harry Morales, the visionary creator of this extraordinary organization. Join Maddy and Jess as they sit down with Harry to uncover the remarkable origins of Angel Flight and its profound impact on countless lives. Harry shares his story of hearing the call to help those in need back in 1992. Angel Flight East's commitment to professionalism and safety, even in the face of adversity, became the cornerstone of their organization. He takes us back to the tale of Baby Madeline, the very first child flown by Angel Flight. This experience ignited an unyielding dedication to make Angel Flight a permanent fixture in the community. The organization expanded its reach, flying from New England to Texas, bridging vast geographical gaps with compassion. Fast-forward to the harrowing events of September 11th, 2001, when Angel Flight East played a pivotal role in providing relief during the nation's darkest hour. Harry's leadership and the collaboration of various Angel Flight chapters facilitated the critical transportation of cadaver dogs, blood supplies, and patients to essential medical treatment. Angel Flight has been soaring compassion, uniting skies and hearts for over 30 years. Tune in now and hear their story!
Seeing a person you love suffering, unable to hold them can be heart-wrenching. That is what Lynn Omohundro felt when her granddaughter, Kara, suffered from severe burns, calling for her to touch her but can't do anything. In this episode, Lynn shares their flight journey for the first time and how grateful she is to Angel Flight for the support they provided. Over the years, Angel Flight has been a lifeline, flying Kara and her to and from Cincinnati for checkups. Lynn's gratitude is palpable as she describes the profound impact this organization has had on their lives. Through tears and laughter, she emphasizes the unwavering support they have received, the countless kind-hearted pilots they've met, and the joy Kara finds in her sports activities. Tune in to this beautiful tale that shows the love of a grandmother to her granddaughter and the incredible work of Angel Flight.
Fly with purpose and soar beyond limits, for in the sky lies the extraordinary power to transform lives and ignite hope. Join Jess Ames and Maddy Beck as they sit down with Lawrence Gaulkin, a volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East. Lawrence shares his personal experiences and motivations for becoming a pilot, and how his retirement opened up a whole new world of meaningful service. As the discussion unfolds, Lawrence shares his initial apprehensions about carrying strangers and the transformative moment that ignited his passion for public benefit flying. From heartwarming stories of flying a 14-year-old boy battling a serious illness to exploring the unique challenges and rewards of non-commercial flying, Lawrence sheds light on the incredible impact volunteer pilots can have on the lives of their passengers. Discover the joy of providing comfort, support, and even a sense of adventure to those in need. Tune in now!
For our senior patients, getting to and from medical appointments can be challenging. When you add living alone to the equation, it becomes even more of a struggle. Our episode's guest is all too familiar with this. Living alone at 73 years old while battling salivary gland tumors, Sabra Wood finds it very difficult to drive the four hours from home to Rochester for her appointments. Thankfully with Angel Flights, she gets the travel assistance she needs. Today, she shares with us her amazing experience with Angel Flight—not just on air but also on the ground. She talks about how much Angel Flight has helped turn something that could have been horrible into an adventure and the great people she has met along the way who treated her with grace and compassion. Tune in to this touching conversation with Sabra and discover how many lives Angel Flight has touched since.
Nothing is more rewarding than being part of the passenger's medical journey. Today, Andy Chen shares how he became a volunteer pilot and recounts his rewarding journey of transporting and transforming passengers throughout their medical journey. He shares the relationship maintained between pilots and passengers. Also, Andy reveals the Facebook group he joined and why “this IS an airport, please announce your departure: aeroplane ear posting” resonated with him. You may not want to miss this episode if you are interested in public benefit flying!
Getting treatments can be difficult, especially when you have to travel miles and miles away for the treatment. It is even more difficult when your health condition makes commuting insufferable getting on a bus or train. Yvonne Fenster graces this episode with her experience as a flight passenger with Angel Flight East and how the organization helped her with her medical journey. She explains why she's still working with the organization since 2015. Yvonne urges everyone to try not to be afraid of flying. She also shares the established relationship with one of the pilots and how grateful she had been working with Angel Flight East. Head on to this episode and listen to how much Angel East values you with your medical journey.
The passengers' gratitude after the flight can be rewarding and is enough for most volunteer pilots. Today, behind the yoke is not just a volunteer pilot but also a commercial real estate broker. Brad Neihouser, the volunteer pilot of Angel Flight East, shares the virtues of being a volunteer pilot and helping people take off. He recollects the different experiences he had with flying and the connection he created with the passengers. Being a volunteer pilot, Brad shares why he wants to be involved in Angel Flight. Tune in to this amazing as Brad shares the virtues of being a volunteer pilot and helping people take off!
Above anything else, it's the touching stories from passengers that keep us alive and inspired here at Angel Flight East. And Tami Gaines has one heck of a story to tell. Her son, Trey, is a twin preemie who had a lot of complications that need special care for his whole life. An ultimate super mother, Tami would do anything in her power to provide for her son's needs, but it's a very challenging task to say the least. When she found Angel Flight East, everything became a lot easier for her and her family. Her encounters with the organization have even inspired her to start initiatives to help the families of kids with special needs. Tune in and learn more about Tami and Trey's story and why we should never underestimate the value we bring to the world as Angel East pilots.
Today's guest is Jeremy Bennington, a volunteer pilot for Angel Flight East for five years. He joins Jess Ames and Maddy Beck to share how someone from the communications industry decided to spend some of his time doing medical flights. Jeremy talks about his most memorable experiences as a volunteer pilot, particularly when flying a kid with severe disabilities who found going up on the skies extremely thrilling. Jeremy also opens up about what it is like to work with the FAA every single day and his favorite places to fly to.