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Take Off Talk

Distance can be a major barrier to accessing quality healthcare promptly. 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 that facilitates 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.

Embracing Life's Journey: How Angel Flight East Transformed My Battle with Cancer

byCatherine Brzozowski

Embracing Life's Journey: How Angel Flight East Transformed My Battle with Cancer

"Just because it is terminal doesn't mean that I have to live like I'm terminal. I want to embrace every single day."

I stumbled upon Angel Flight East (AFE) while searching online for ways to ease the financial burden of traveling for medical care. As someone living with stage four metastatic breast cancer, the journey has been long and challenging. But AFE has been a beacon of hope, providing not just transportation, but a community of support and compassion.

The Unexpected Gift of Community

When I first heard about AFE, I was skeptical. Could a small plane really make such a difference? My daughter even questioned, "Are you sure you're going to get on that airplane?" But the experience was nothing short of transformative.

The intimacy of the flight, just me and the pilot, was comforting. It wasn't just about getting from point A to point B; it was about the connection, the shared stories, and the understanding that I wasn't alone in this journey.

"I was just really humbled by the generosity of not only the people that run the organization, but also the pilots."

Redefining Terminal: Living Beyond the Diagnosis

Living with a terminal illness often comes with preconceived notions. People expect frailty, but I choose to defy those expectations. I've been living with this diagnosis for 17 years, and I refuse to let it define me.

Instead, I focus on the positives, the silver linings. I surround myself with a support group of women who understand, who walk in the same shoes. Together, we protest, we travel, we live.

"Just because it is terminal doesn't mean that I have to live like I'm terminal. I want to embrace every single day."

The Power of Connection: Flights That Heal

Each flight with AFE is unique, but one stands out. My journey with Earl, a pilot who felt like a grandfather, was particularly special. His kindness and attention to detail made the flight feel safe and personal.

"He just was so comforting in just making sure I was buckled in, he did all the steps... it was amazing."

These flights are more than just transportation; they're opportunities to connect, to share, and to find comfort in the skies.

A Call to Action: Embrace the Help

If there's one thing I've learned, it's to never feel embarrassed to ask for help. Organizations like Angel Flight East exist to support us, to lift us when we need it most.

"They want you to call them, they want you to get into contact with them because this is what they enjoy doing."

So, if you're in need, reach out. Let them be the angels among us, guiding you through your journey.

The Broader Implications: Living with Purpose

My story is just one of many, but it highlights the profound impact that compassion and community can have. Angel Flight East isn't just about flights; it's about hope, resilience, and living life to the fullest.

I challenge you to embrace each day, to seek out the positives, and to connect with those who can support you. Whether you're battling an illness or supporting someone who is, remember that you're not alone. Together, we can turn uncertainty into hope, one flight at a time.

Interested in helping more episodes... Take Off? 

Consider sponsoring episodes! For more information, please contact Jess at jessames@angelflighteast.org.

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