Free Flights Mean a Better Life

Jan 27, 2023News

When the medical care you need is hundreds of miles away, the last thing you should worry about is how to get there. Wings of Mercy connects patients in need with our volunteer pilots to provide 100% free flights to and from medical destinations.

We are currently assisting four-year-old Sophia with free flights to Shriners Children’s Philadelphia, where she receives life-changing treatments for Arthrogryposis. Sophia’s mom told us there were orthopedic doctors closer to their home in Michigan, but none specialized in Sophia’s rare condition. They made the trip by car a few times when Sophia was a baby, but the 12-hour drive took its toll on everyone. It was a huge relief when they found out about Wings of Mercy.

Since 2019, Wings of Mercy pilots have donated 29 flights to or from Philadelphia for Sophia and her family. These free flights mean a better chance for Sophia to gain mobility in her arms and legs. Her doctors are very pleased with her progress and the hope is that she will enjoy the absolute best quality of life for someone with this condition. Her family also receives training and information on how to support Sophia and minimize potentially harmful situations. Shriners hospitals are world renown for their “wrap-around care.” According to their website, they have been able to help more than 1.5 million children to reach their potential regardless of their family’s ability to pay.

If a free flight would make it easier for your child to receive life-changing treatment at a Shriners hospital or any medical facility east of the Rocky Mountains, call us at 616-396-1077. We would love to help.